Gnocchi Carbonara with Bacon is a creamy and flavorful dish that combines the soft texture of gnocchi with crispy bacon. This Italian classic is not just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace on a plate. The rich, velvety sauce made from heavy cream, egg yolks, and Parmesan cheese envelops each gnocchi, while the salty crunch of bacon adds an irresistible depth of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Gnocchi Carbonara with Bacon
This Gnocchi Carbonara with Bacon is more than just a tasty meal; it’s a celebration of flavor and texture. Here’s why you’ll adore it:
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The creamy sauce complements the soft gnocchi beautifully.
- Crispy bacon adds a salty crunch that elevates each bite.
- Rich in flavor, it satisfies even the heartiest appetites.
- Perfect for families and gatherings, serving up to four.
- Versatile; you can add vegetables for extra nutrition.
- It’s a classic Italian dish that brings authentic flavors to your table.
- Easy to customize with various ingredients, like peas or spinach.
With its easy Gnocchi Carbonara with Bacon preparation, you’ll find it’s a dish that fits any occasion.
Ingredients for Gnocchi Carbonara with Bacon
Gather these items:
- 1 pound gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 6 ounces bacon, diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
How to Make Gnocchi Carbonara with Bacon Step-by-Step
- Step 1: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions. Once they float, they are done. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the diced bacon. Cook until crispy and browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet and drain on paper towels, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
- Step 3: In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Step 4: In a bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg yolks, and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
- Step 5: Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the sautéed garlic. Pour the cream mixture over the gnocchi and toss to coat evenly.
- Step 6: Stir in the crispy bacon and continue to cook on low heat for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Be careful not to scramble the eggs.
- Step 7: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt and pepper if desired.
- Step 8: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley, if using. Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan cheese.
Pro Tips for the Best Gnocchi Carbonara with Bacon
Keep these in mind:
- This dish is best served fresh to enjoy the flavors and textures.
- Feel free to add more vegetables like peas or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Be cautious when mixing the egg yolks with the cream to prevent scrambling.
Best Ways to Serve Gnocchi Carbonara with Bacon
Here are a few ideas for serving this delightful dish:
- Top with additional grated Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy experience.
- Pair with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the sauce.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
How to Store and Reheat Gnocchi Carbonara with Bacon
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to keep the sauce creamy, and warm over low heat, stirring gently to avoid scrambling the eggs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gnocchi Carbonara with Bacon
What is Gnocchi Carbonara with Bacon?
Gnocchi Carbonara with Bacon is a delicious twist on the classic carbonara dish, where soft gnocchi replaces traditional pasta. It features a creamy sauce made with bacon, eggs, and Parmesan, creating a rich and comforting meal that’s easy to prepare.
Can I make Gnocchi Carbonara with Bacon ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Cook the gnocchi and bacon, then combine them with the sauce just before serving to maintain the dish’s creamy texture.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Gnocchi Carbonara with Bacon?
To avoid common mistakes, ensure that the heat is low when adding the egg yolks to the sauce to prevent scrambling. Also, cook the gnocchi just until they float for the perfect texture.
Variations of Gnocchi Carbonara with Bacon You Can Try
Consider these delicious variations:
- Swap bacon for pancetta for a different flavor profile.
- Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy touch.
- Use a combination of cheeses like Pecorino Romano along with Parmesan.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute bacon with smoked tempeh or mushrooms.
For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Tuscan Scallops or Sushi Rolls Recipe. You can also explore Hidden Valley Ranch Chicken for a delightful chicken dish.
For tips on making perfect carbonara, visit Serious Eats for expert advice on achieving the right texture and flavor in your sauce.
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Gnocchi Carbonara with Bacon: 7 Simple Steps to Delight
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Gnocchi Carbonara with Bacon & Parmesan is a creamy and flavorful dish that combines the soft texture of gnocchi with crispy bacon.
Ingredients
- 1 pound gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 6 ounces bacon, diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions. Once they float, they are done. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the diced bacon. Cook until crispy and browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet and drain on paper towels, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
- In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- In a bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg yolks, and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
- Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the sautéed garlic. Pour the cream mixture over the gnocchi and toss to coat evenly.
- Stir in the crispy bacon and continue to cook on low heat for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Be careful not to scramble the eggs.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt and pepper if desired.
- Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley, if using. Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- This dish is best served fresh to enjoy the flavors and textures.
- Feel free to add more vegetables like peas or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 580 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 180mg