Creamy Bacon and Spinach Gnocchi is a delightful comfort food that combines soft potato gnocchi with a rich bacon cream sauce. This easy recipe features crispy bacon, sautéed garlic, and fresh baby spinach, all enveloped in a creamy Parmesan and heavy cream base.
Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or indulgent dinners. It’s a standout among easy gnocchi recipes, delivering big flavor with simple ingredients.
Overview of Creamy Bacon and Spinach Gnocchi
This dish brings together the comforting textures of soft potato gnocchi and the rich flavors of crispy bacon and fresh spinach.
With its creamy bacon cream sauce, this recipe is a standout among various gnocchi recipes, especially for those seeking easy yet satisfying meals.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this creamy gnocchi with spinach and bacon is sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients That Make a Difference
The beauty of this creamy spinach gnocchi lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients.
Key components include tender potato gnocchi, which serve as the base, and crispy bacon that adds a savory crunch.
Fresh baby spinach not only provides a vibrant color but also a nutritious boost, while the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese create a luscious sauce that envelops each piece of gnocchi.
Cooking Process Made Simple
Preparing this dish is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for those new to cooking or anyone looking for a quick meal.
Start by cooking the gnocchi in boiling salted water until they float, which indicates they are ready.
Next, crisp the bacon in a skillet, allowing the rendered fat to infuse the dish with flavor. Sauté garlic and spinach in the same pan to build layers of taste before adding the cream and cheese to create that velvety sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Once the gnocchi is combined with the sauce and bacon, it’s time to serve.
For an inviting presentation, serve the dish in rustic bowls, garnished with chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a touch of freshness to the rich flavors of the creamy bacon gnocchi.
Why This Dish Stands Out
This creamy bacon gnocchi is not just another pasta dish; it combines comfort and indulgence in every bite.
The balance of textures—from the pillowy gnocchi to the crispy bacon—creates a satisfying experience.
Moreover, it’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted with different greens or proteins, making it a staple in any home cook’s repertoire.
Nutrition and Serving Size
This recipe serves four, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Each serving contains approximately 540 calories, with a good balance of protein and carbohydrates, ensuring a fulfilling meal.
With its rich flavors and comforting nature, this dish is sure to become a favorite among creamy spinach gnocchi recipes.
Quick and Delicious Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Bacon
This creamy gnocchi with spinach and bacon features tender gnocchi tossed in a luscious bacon cream sauce, making it a satisfying one-pan meal. The recipe serves 4 and takes about 25 minutes from start to finish.
Ingredients
- 1 pound potato gnocchi
- 6 slices bacon chopped
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Gnocchi: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and drain excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the skillet.
- Sauté Garlic: Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Spinach: Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine: Add the cooked gnocchi and crispy bacon to the sauce, tossing gently to coat.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 540kcal
- Fat: 35g
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 45g