This creamy bacon gnocchi recipe will tantalize your taste buds. It’s indulgent, savory, and incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. With just a few ingredients, you can create a comforting dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Table of Contents
Creamy Bacon Gnocchi with Spinach
Ingredients Needed for Bacon Gnocchi
To make your delicious bacon gnocchi, gather the following ingredients: 4 oz smoked bacon (streaky), ¼ medium to large onion, 1-2 cloves garlic, 1 ½ oz spinach, 2 cups gnocchi, ¼ cup chicken stock or white wine, ½ tablespoon flour, ½ cup cream, ½ cup frozen peas (optional), and ½ cup loosely packed parmesan or pecorino.
Cooking Tools and Equipment
You will need a medium skillet, a sharp knife for chopping, and a sturdy wooden spoon for stirring. Having a cutting board handy will make your prep a breeze!
Preparing the Base for the Sauce
Cooking the Bacon and Aromatics
First, cut the bacon into slices, finely chop the onion and garlic, and roughly chop the spinach. Then, heat a medium skillet over medium heat and add the bacon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the fat begins to render. Once some fat has rendered, add the onion and cook until it softens and the bacon starts to crisp. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, letting those wonderful aromas fill your kitchen.
Deglazing the Pan
Next, stir in the gnocchi and cook for a minute or two. Pour in the stock (or wine) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Then, add flour to absorb the fat and thicken the sauce, followed by mixing in the cream for that luscious texture.
Making the Creamy Sauce
Incorporating Spinach and Peas
Now, incorporate the spinach and peas if using. Stir until the spinach wilts, which should take a minute or two. The vibrant greens add a fresh flavor that complements the creamy sauce perfectly. Then, add the parmesan or pecorino, stirring until it melts into the sauce.
Adjusting Sauce Consistency
If the sauce is too thick, simply add more cream or stock as needed before serving. This flexibility ensures your dish is just the way you like it!
Serving Suggestions for Bacon Gnocchi
Pairing with Side Dishes
This creamy bacon gnocchi pairs beautifully with a light side salad or crusty bread. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables—delicious!
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should keep for about 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or stock for best results.
FAQs
What ingredients do I need to make bacon gnocchi?
To make bacon gnocchi, you will need smoked bacon, onion, garlic, spinach, gnocchi, chicken stock or white wine, flour, cream, peas, and parmesan or pecorino.
How do I cook bacon gnocchi properly?
Cook the bacon and aromatics in a skillet, then add the gnocchi and deglaze the pan. Stir in the cream and greens to create a delicious sauce.
Can I use store-bought gnocchi for bacon gnocchi recipes?
Yes, store-bought gnocchi works perfectly and saves you time in the kitchen.
What are some good side dishes to serve with bacon gnocchi?
Pair it with a light salad, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
How can I make bacon gnocchi healthier?
You can add more vegetables, like asparagus or mixed veggies, and use low-fat cream.
Related Recipes to try
Conclusion
This creamy bacon gnocchi is a wonderful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. It’s an indulgent meal that everyone will love, and you can easily tweak it to fit your family’s preferences. For more inspiration, you can find delicious ideas on our Pinterest page at Artemis Recipes. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Bacon Gnocchi: A Creamy Delight
Ingredients
- 4 oz smoked bacon (streaky)
- ¼ medium to large onion
- 1-2 cloves garlic
- 1 ½ oz spinach
- 2 cups gnocchi
- ¼ cup chicken stock or white wine
- ½ tablespoon flour
- ½ cup cream
- ½ cup frozen peas (optional)
- ½ cup loosely packed parmesan or pecorino
Instructions
- Cut the bacon into slices, finely chop the onion and garlic, and roughly chop the spinach.
- Heat a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon and cook, stirring occasionally, until the fat begins to render. Once some fat has rendered, add the onion and cook until it softens and the bacon starts to crisp. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in the gnocchi and cook for a minute or two, then pour in the stock (or wine) to deglaze the pan. Add flour to absorb the fat and thicken the sauce, then mix in the cream.
- Incorporate the spinach and peas, if using, and stir until the spinach wilts, which should take a minute or two. Add the parmesan or pecorino, stirring until it melts into the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add more cream or stock as needed before serving.
Notes
– The creamy sauce can also be paired with small pasta or used as a drizzle over chicken.
– To make a soup, additional vegetables and stock can be added, although this variation has not been tested.