When the chilly days roll in, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of creamy cheddar gnocchi soup to warm you up from the inside out. This delightful dish combines the rich, comforting flavors of melted cheddar with soft, pillowy gnocchi that practically dance in the broth. I remember cozying up on the couch with a steaming bowl of this soup, the aroma filling my kitchen, and it instantly brings back memories of laughter and warmth on those cold, crisp nights. Trust me, every spoonful is like a hug in a bowl! The silky texture and savory notes make this cheddar gnocchi soup not just a meal, but a comforting experience you’ll want to savor again and again. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe together!

Ingredients for Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
Let’s gather everything we need to create this heavenly cheddar gnocchi soup! Here’s a clear rundown of the ingredients that’ll come together to make your kitchen smell divine and your taste buds dance with joy:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – for that perfect sautéing base
- 1 onion, diced – adds sweetness and depth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – because garlic makes everything better!
- 4 cups vegetable broth – the flavorful foundation of our soup
- 1 cup heavy cream – for that luscious, creamy texture
- 2 cups gnocchi – the star of the show, soft and pillowy
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – the cheesy goodness we’re all here for
- 1 teaspoon thyme – a sprinkle of herbal delight
- Salt and pepper to taste – to enhance all those beautiful flavors
Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go; it makes the cooking process so much smoother and more enjoyable!
How to Prepare Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
Alright, let’s get cooking! Making this cheddar gnocchi soup is a breeze, and before you know it, you’ll be savoring that creamy goodness. Just follow these simple steps, and I promise you’ll have a bowl of warmth in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it nice and warm but not smoking!
- Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion is soft and fragrant – oh, that smell is heavenly!
- Now, pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. This will create the flavorful base of our soup.
- Once boiling, add the gnocchi. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the top. This means they’re ready to soak up all that delicious broth!
- Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely, creating a rich, creamy texture.
- Finally, sprinkle in the thyme, and add salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good stir, and your soup is ready to serve!
Serve it hot, and don’t forget to savor every last spoonful of this cozy delight!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation time – ready in just 30 minutes!
- Creamy and flavorful – the perfect balance of cheese and broth.
- Comforting and satisfying – a warm hug in every bowl!
- Vegetarian-friendly – a delicious option for everyone at the table.
- Versatile for ingredient additions – toss in your favorite veggies or proteins for extra flair!
Tips for Success
Want to take your cheddar gnocchi soup to the next level? Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure you achieve the best results every time!
- Adjust the Cheese: If you’re a cheese lover like me, feel free to add more cheddar cheese to make it extra creamy! Just remember, the more cheese you add, the thicker the soup will become, so keep an eye on the consistency.
- Fresh Herbs: Using fresh thyme can really elevate the flavor profile of your soup. If you have fresh herbs on hand, don’t hesitate to experiment with basil or parsley for a delightful twist!
- Add Vegetables: For a nutrition boost, throw in some chopped spinach, kale, or even diced carrots when you add the gnocchi. Not only do they add color, but they also pack in extra nutrients!
- Blend for Creaminess: If you prefer a smoother soup, blend a portion of the soup before stirring in the gnocchi. This creates a lovely creamy base while keeping some texture from the gnocchi.
- Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when sautéing the onions. It adds a fun kick that perfectly complements the richness of the cheese!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a soup that’s not just comforting but also bursting with flavor. Enjoy experimenting and making it your own!
Nutritional Information
Now that you’re ready to indulge in this delicious cheddar gnocchi soup, let’s talk about what you’ll be getting in each comforting bowl. Here are the typical nutritional values per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
Keep in mind that these numbers are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. For instance, if you opt for different brands of cheese or add more veggies, it might change the nutritional profile a bit. But that’s the beauty of cooking at home—you get to customize it just the way you like! Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this soup while knowing exactly what’s going into it.
FAQ Section
I know you might have some questions about this delicious cheddar gnocchi soup, so let’s tackle a few common ones that pop up. Trust me, these tips will make your cooking experience even better!
Can I freeze cheddar gnocchi soup?
Absolutely! Freezing cheddar gnocchi soup is a great way to enjoy it later. Just let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or a freezer bag. Be sure to leave some room at the top, as it will expand when frozen. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop. Just a heads up, the texture may change a bit when reheating—gnocchi can become softer, but it’ll still be tasty!
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or just don’t have heavy cream on hand, no worries! You can use half-and-half for a similar richness or even non-dairy creamers if you’re keeping it dairy-free. Coconut cream can add a lovely twist if you’re feeling adventurous, just keep in mind it may slightly alter the flavor profile. Experiment and see what you like best!
How can I make this soup spicier?
For those who enjoy a little kick, there are plenty of fun ways to spice things up! You can add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while sautéing the onions. Another option is to stir in a few dashes of hot sauce towards the end of cooking. If you’re feeling bold, try some chipotle powder for a smoky heat that pairs wonderfully with the cheese. Customize it to your heat preference, and enjoy the warmth!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now, let’s talk about how to store those tasty leftovers of your cheddar gnocchi soup! If you happen to have any left (which is rare in my house!), make sure to let it cool completely first. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember, the gnocchi will continue to soak up the broth, so it might thicken a bit as it sits. If you want to keep it for a longer time, you can freeze it! Just pour it into a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag, leaving some room for expansion, and it should be good for about 2 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, pour it into a pot and warm it up over medium heat, stirring gently. If it’s too thick for your liking, you can add a splash of vegetable broth or a bit more cream to bring back that creamy texture we all love! Just take your time and avoid boiling it, as that can affect the creaminess. Trust me, a cozy bowl of this soup is worth the little extra effort!
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Cheddar Gnocchi Soup: 5 Ways to Warm Your Heart
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and comforting cheddar gnocchi soup perfect for chilly days.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups gnocchi
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft.
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Add gnocchi and cook until they float.
- Stir in heavy cream and cheese until melted.
- Add thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust cheese for desired creaminess.
- Use fresh herbs for more flavor.
- Add vegetables for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Cheddar Gnocchi Soup, Creamy Soup, Comfort Food