Cheddar Gnocchi Soup: A Creamy and Comforting Recipe

Introduction

Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is a creamy, comforting dish perfect for cozy evenings. With tender gnocchi, sharp cheddar, and a flavorful tomato base, this soup is both hearty and easy to make.

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 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups gnocchi (potato gnocchi recommended)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
• 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 to 7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
2. Step 2: Pour in vegetable broth, diced tomatoes with their juice, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes if using, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce heat to low, partially cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Step 3: Gently add gnocchi to the simmering soup. Cook according to package directions, typically 2 to 3 minutes, or until tender and floating. Remove the pot from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. If using, stir in heavy cream to enrich the soup.
4. Step 4: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth.
• Add cooked bacon or sausage for extra protein and smoky notes.
• Use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella cheese for a milder, gooey texture.
• Skip the heavy cream for a lighter version, or substitute with half-and-half.
• For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.

Storage

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to prevent curdling. If the soup thickens too much after cooling, stir in a little broth or water while reheating to reach desired consistency.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen gnocchi works well in this recipe. Just add them directly to the simmering soup and cook until they float to the top, which means they are done.

Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, omit the cheddar cheese and heavy cream. You can add a dairy-free cheese alternative or blend in soaked cashews for creaminess instead.

Cheddar Gnocchi Soup: A Creamy and Comforting Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 60 reviews

Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is a creamy, comforting dish perfect for cozy meals. This flavorful soup combines tender potato gnocchi, sharp cheddar cheese, and a rich blend of vegetables and herbs, simmered to perfection for an easy yet indulgent recipe.

• Author: Bella
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Soup Base

• 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 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups gnocchi (potato gnocchi recommended)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)

Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook an additional 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
2. Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the vegetable broth and undrained diced tomatoes. Add dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes if using, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
3. Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, partially cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld and deepen.
4. Cook Gnocchi: Gently add the gnocchi to the simmering soup. Cook the gnocchi according to package directions, usually 2-3 minutes, or until tender and floating on the surface.
5. Finish with Cheese and Cream: Remove the soup from heat, then stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it melts fully and the soup becomes creamy. If using, stir in the heavy cream for extra richness.
6. Adjust Seasoning & Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

• For a richer flavor, use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth.
• Red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted to your preferred spice level.
• Heavy cream is optional; omit or substitute with a dairy-free alternative for a lighter or vegan version.
• Use fresh potato gnocchi for the best texture and taste.
• Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.

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