Cheddar Gnocchi Soup: A Creamy and Comforting Recipe

Introduction

This Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is a creamy, comforting dish perfect for chilly days. Combining tender gnocchi with sharp cheddar and flavorful herbs, it’s a hearty meal that’s quick to prepare and sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 pound potato gnocchi
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Step 2: Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Step 3: Pour in the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes with their juice, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Step 4: Slowly stir in the heavy cream until fully incorporated.
5. Step 5: Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese in handfuls, stirring constantly until melted and the soup is smooth.
6. Step 6: Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
7. Step 7: Meanwhile, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions—usually boiling in salted water until they float, about 2-3 minutes. Avoid overcooking.
8. Step 8: Drain the gnocchi well and add them to the soup, stirring gently to combine.
9. Step 9: Let the soup simmer for 2-3 more minutes to heat the gnocchi through.
10. Step 10: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• For extra richness, use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth.
• Add cooked bacon or sausage for a smoky, meaty flavor.
• Swap sharp cheddar for smoked cheddar for a deeper taste.
• Use fresh gnocchi if available for a tender texture.
• Adjust red pepper flakes to control the heat level or skip for a milder soup.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent cheese from separating. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegan or dairy-free?

You can substitute the cheddar cheese and heavy cream with vegan alternatives such as vegan cheese and coconut cream, though this will change the flavor and texture somewhat.

Can I freeze Cheddar Gnocchi Soup?

Freezing is not recommended as the cream and cheese can separate and the gnocchi may become mushy when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.

Cheddar Gnocchi Soup: A Creamy and Comforting Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 114 reviews

This Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is a creamy and comforting dish perfect for chilly days. Combining tender potato gnocchi with a flavorful broth enriched with sharp cheddar cheese and a hint of herbs, this soup is both hearty and satisfying. The addition of tomatoes and spices gives it a subtle tang, balanced by the richness of heavy cream and melted cheddar, making it an inviting meal for cheese lovers and soup enthusiasts alike.

• Author: Lila
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Broth and Seasonings

• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Dairy and Cheese

• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Others

• 1 pound potato gnocchi
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Sauté onion: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add garlic: Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, stirring carefully to avoid burning and until fragrant.
3. Add broth and tomatoes: Pour in vegetable broth, diced tomatoes with their juices, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 15 minutes.
4. Incorporate cream: Slowly stir in the heavy cream until fully blended into the soup base.
5. Melt cheddar cheese: Gradually add shredded sharp cheddar cheese a handful at a time, stirring constantly until the cheese melts completely into a smooth, creamy consistency.
6. Season soup: Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to preference.
7. Cook gnocchi: Meanwhile, cook the potato gnocchi according to package instructions, usually by boiling in salted water until they float, about 2-3 minutes, being careful not to overcook.
8. Drain gnocchi: Drain the cooked gnocchi thoroughly to avoid sogginess, then add them directly into the soup.
9. Combine and heat gnocchi: Stir gently to combine the gnocchi with the soup, then simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat the gnocchi through.
10. Garnish and serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley, and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

• Use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth for a richer and more savory flavor.
• If you prefer a spicier soup, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
• For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
• Be careful not to overcook gnocchi to prevent them from becoming mushy.
• Fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh finish; you can also add grated Parmesan as an extra cheesy garnish.

Keywords: cheddar gnocchi soup, creamy soup, potato gnocchi recipe, comfort food, cheesy soup, easy soup recipe