There’s something deeply comforting about a bowl of Loaded Potato Gnocchi Soup: it’s got all the stick-to-your-ribs warmth of a baked potato, but in a creamy, cheesy, spoonable form that just begs you to settle in and savor. Each bite is packed with pillowy gnocchi, crispy bacon, and melty cheddar, all brought together in a luscious, savory broth. Whether you’re chasing away a chilly evening or craving a bowl of pure comfort, this soup promises big flavor and cozy satisfaction.

Loaded Potato Gnocchi Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this recipe is in how a few humble ingredients join forces to create a showstopper. Each element adds something special, from the smoky depth of bacon to the creamy richness of cheddar and cream. Here’s what you’ll need—and why you shouldn’t skip a thing!

Bacon: Classic for loaded potato flavor; crisped bacon adds saltiness and smoky crunch.
Bacon drippings (or olive oil): Using the flavorful fat from bacon infuses the soup base with more richness, but olive oil works in a pinch.
Onion: Diced onion sweetens and deepens the overall flavor, making the soup base irresistibly savory.
Minced garlic: Garlic brings aromatic depth and warmth—don’t skip it!
Kosher salt & black pepper: Essential seasonings to balance all the rich, creamy elements.
Low-sodium chicken broth: The savory backbone of the soup; low-sodium keeps it from getting too salty, especially with the bacon and cheese.
Potato gnocchi: The star of the show! These tender little dumplings soak up all that creamy goodness and make the dish ultra-hearty.
Heavy cream: For ultimate silkiness and a luxurious mouthfeel—worth every drop.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Bold, sharp cheddar melts in to give you a classic “loaded potato” soul.
Scallions: These bright green onions add color, crunch, and a mild kick to every bite.
Sour cream: A dollop on top ties everything together with a cool, tangy note.

How to Make Loaded Potato Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Crisp the Bacon

Start by cooking the bacon in a Dutch oven over medium heat until it’s perfectly brown and irresistibly crisp. This isn’t just about bacon bits—it sets the stage for the savory flavor throughout your Loaded Potato Gnocchi Soup. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, let it cool a bit, then chop it into crave-worthy pieces. Don’t forget to set some aside for the all-important garnish!

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Pour off most of the bacon drippings, but keep about a tablespoon in the pot—trust me, this is liquid gold! Add the diced onions and cook gently until they’re soft, translucent, and almost melt into the pot, about 7-10 minutes. Stir in the garlic, salt, and pepper, and let them cook together just until the garlic is fragrant. This step fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and builds the flavor foundation for the whole soup.

Step 3: Simmer with Broth and Gnocchi

Now, turn up the flavor! Pour in your chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Once you’ve got a bubbly cauldron, stir in the potato gnocchi. If you’re using frozen, wait for them to rise to the top—usually 3-4 minutes. Pre-packaged gnocchi cook even faster, so keep an eye out after 2-3 minutes. These little dumplings take on all those savory flavors and contribute to the soup’s luxurious texture.

Step 4: Stir in Cream, Cheese, and Bacon

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, letting it swirl into the broth. Now, add the shredded cheddar in batches, stirring between each addition so it melts evenly and makes the soup unmistakably cheesy. Be sure to reserve a bit of the cheese for garnishing later! Add in most of the chopped bacon, saving a handful for the topping—we’re building layers of flavor and texture here.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

The moment you’ve been waiting for: ladle the piping hot Loaded Potato Gnocchi Soup into bowls. Pile on those finishing touches—reserved bacon and cheddar, a sprinkle of bright scallions, and a dollop of sour cream. Each serving should look (and taste!) like the ultimate comfort food hug.

How to Serve Loaded Potato Gnocchi Soup

Garnishes

Don’t skimp on the toppings—they do more than look pretty! The extra cheddar and bacon give every bowl that over-the-top, “loaded” feeling. Chopped scallions add crisp, fresh flavor, while a swirl of sour cream brings everything together with a tangy, luscious finish. These finishing touches are the secret to the soup’s potluck appeal.

Side Dishes

This soup is a star on its own, but it also plays beautifully with simple sides. Try serving it with a crusty baguette or warm garlic bread to soak up every drop. A crisp green salad with a zippy vinaigrette helps balance the creamy richness. Even a side of roasted broccoli or a medley of steamed veggies makes for a fantastic pairing.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your Loaded Potato Gnocchi Soup presentation up a notch for guests (or just for fun). Serve it in rustic bread bowls for a playful “edible dish” twist. For gatherings, offer a toppings bar with extra garnishes so everyone can make their bowl just right. Tiny soup shooters can make a gorgeous appetizer at a party, bringing all the comfort in a few fun bites.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Loaded Potato Gnocchi Soup keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Let the soup cool to room temperature first, then transfer it to a tightly sealed container. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, so leftovers are something to look forward to! Just know that the gnocchi can continue to soak up the broth, thickening the soup slightly.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup, but with one small caveat: cream-based soups can sometimes separate a bit when thawed, and the gnocchi might soften more. For best results, freeze the soup before you stir in the cream and cheese, and add those when reheating. Use airtight containers and enjoy within two months for peak flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the soup gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until hot and steaming. If the soup has thickened too much, just add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen it up. Avoid boiling, especially if you’ve already added the dairy, for the creamiest possible texture.

FAQs

Can I use homemade gnocchi?

Absolutely! If you have homemade potato gnocchi on hand, they’ll be delicious in this soup. Just keep in mind they may cook a bit faster than store-bought versions, so watch closely to avoid overcooking.

Is there a vegetarian option for this soup?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by skipping the bacon and using olive oil to sauté the onions. Swap in vegetable broth and consider adding smoked paprika to give a hint of that classic smoky flavor.

What’s the best type of cheese to use?

Sharp cheddar is the classic choice for that loaded potato vibe—it melts beautifully and brings bold flavor. You can also experiment with a blend of cheeses, like Monterey Jack or smoked gouda, for a fun twist.

Can I make Loaded Potato Gnocchi Soup ahead of time for a party?

Definitely! Prepare the soup a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat gently before serving and hold back on garnishes until you’re ready to serve. This actually makes it even easier to entertain guests.

How do I fix soup if it gets too thick?

The potato gnocchi will absorb some broth over time, thickening the soup naturally. If it gets too thick for your liking, just stir in a little extra chicken broth or milk until it’s the perfect consistency again.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a bowl of soul-warming, crowd-pleasing comfort, give Loaded Potato Gnocchi Soup a try—it’s sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen! Each spoonful is a celebration of creamy, cheesy goodness and heartwarming flavors. Don’t be surprised if it becomes the most requested soup recipe in your house.