There’s something so comforting about a hearty plate of creamy bacon and cheddar gnocchi. This dish has become a go-to favorite in my kitchen, perfect for cozy nights when you crave something rich and satisfying. The simple combination of soft gnocchi, crispy bacon, and a luscious cheese sauce makes it a standout on any dinner table. Plus, it comes together quickly, offering an impressive meal without much fuss—ideal for weeknight family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Creamy and cheesy, this gnocchi delight has a delightful blend of textures and flavors that keeps everyone coming back for more. The crispiness of the bacon, combined with the silky smoothness of the creamy sauce, creates an indulgent experience. Whether you’re serving it to guests or enjoying a quiet meal at home, this dish is sure to impress.
Why you’ll love this dish
- Quick to prepare and cook, perfect for busy evenings.
- Creamy cheese sauce pairs well with crispy bacon.
- Gnocchi provides a unique and satisfying texture.
- Great for make-ahead meals or reheating for leftovers.
- Kid-friendly and appeals to all ages.
“Tastes incredible and so simple to make.”
Step-by-step overview
Making creamy bacon and cheddar gnocchi is straightforward. First, you’ll cook the gnocchi until tender, then sauté the bacon until crispy. After that, a creamy sauce is created by combining heavy cream, cheddar, and Parmesan in the same skillet to infuse flavors. Finally, the cooked gnocchi is added to that rich sauce, along with bacon, creating a dish that’s both decadent and comforting.
What you’ll need
- 1 pound gnocchi
- 4 strips of bacon, chopped
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Gnocchi: Fresh or store-bought, both work well.
- Bacon: Can be swapped with pancetta or turkey bacon for a lighter version.
- Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or a sharp white cheddar for variation.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the sauce’s flavor; garlic powder can work in a pinch.
Cooking method
Follow these steps to whip up this creamy bacon and cheddar gnocchi dish effortlessly.
- Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan, and season with salt and pepper until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked gnocchi to the cheese sauce and mix until well coated.
- Stir in the crispy bacon.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.
Pro Tip: When cooking the bacon, keep an eye on it to ensure it becomes nicely crisp without burning, which adds a rich smokiness to the dish.
The gnocchi should have a soft, tender texture and should not be overcooked. The sauce will thicken slightly and have a silky sheen when perfectly done.
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure to drain the gnocchi well to prevent any excess water from thinning out the sauce.
- If using frozen gnocchi, cook from frozen without thawing for the best texture.
- Don’t rush the cream mixing process; let it simmer gently for an even consistency.
- For a little tang, consider adding a splash of lemon juice to the sauce.
- Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving to ensure the perfect flavor balance.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serve creamy bacon and cheddar gnocchi in generous portions on a warm plate. It’s lovely on its own but pairs beautifully with a simple side salad of mixed greens dressed with a light vinaigrette. You can also top it with a sprinkling of fresh herbs or a bit of crushed red pepper for some added flavor.
Storage & reheating tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of additional cream or milk over low heat to help restore the creamy texture and avoid separation. You can also microwave it briefly, stopping frequently to stir for even heating.
Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours; reheat until steaming hot.
How to fix common issues
If your gnocchi is dry or clumpy:
- You may need to add a bit more cream when reheating to loosen the texture.
If it tastes bland: - Season with extra salt and freshly cracked pepper, which can enhance the flavors significantly.
If the sauce has separated: - Gently whisk in a splash of cream or milk over low heat and stir until combined.
Creative twists
For a slight variation, you can add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes during the cooking process for additional color and nutrients. Using different meats, such as shredded rotisserie chicken or sautéed mushrooms, can also give a different twist. This dish can also be made lighter by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Common questions
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the bacon, and you can use mushrooms or a combination of vegetables for added flavor.
Can I freeze creamy bacon and cheddar gnocchi?
Freezing is possible, but the texture might change upon reheating. It’s recommended to freeze the sauce separately from the gnocchi if possible.
How can I spice it up?
Incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or some fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can enhance the flavor profile beautifully.
What cheese works best?
While cheddar and Parmesan are classic choices, mixing in Gruyère or Monterey Jack can add wonderful creaminess and depth of flavors.
How do I make it spicier?
Add red pepper flakes during the cooking of the bacon or mix in diced jalapeños with the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
Making creamy bacon and cheddar gnocchi is a delightful experience, merging flavors that are rich and satisfying. With easy steps and common ingredients, this dish promises to be a hit whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining loved ones. Enjoy every creamy bite!
Creamy Bacon and Cheddar Gnocchi
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan, and season with salt and pepper until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked gnocchi to the cheese sauce and mix until well coated.
- Stir in the crispy bacon.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.