Gnocchi Carbonara

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Gnocchi Carbonara is a rich and comforting Italian-inspired dish that combines pillowy potato gnocchi with a creamy, cheesy carbonara sauce made from eggs, Parmesan, and crispy pancetta or bacon. It’s a quick and hearty meal that feels indulgent yet simple, perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy evenings when you crave something warm and satisfying.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

potato gnocchipancetta or thick-cut baconeggsParmesan cheesegarlicblack peppersaltolive oil (optional)

directions

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the top. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook pancetta or bacon until crisp. Remove and set aside, leaving a bit of the fat in the pan.

Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté briefly until fragrant.

In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and a pinch of salt.

Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and toss to coat in the pancetta fat.

Remove the skillet from heat and quickly stir in the egg mixture, mixing continuously to create a creamy sauce without scrambling the eggs.

Stir in the crispy pancetta or bacon and adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve immediately with extra grated Parmesan and cracked black pepper.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2–3 people.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 15 minutesTotal time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan for a sharper flavor.

Add peas or sautéed mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.

Replace pancetta with turkey bacon for a lighter version.

Toss in fresh parsley or chives for a burst of color and freshness.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or milk to maintain creaminess.Avoid microwaving, which can cause the sauce to separate.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes, store-bought gnocchi works well and is convenient for quick meals.

Is cream used in traditional Carbonara?

No, traditional Carbonara uses eggs and cheese for creaminess—no cream needed.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the pancetta or use a vegetarian bacon alternative.

Why did my sauce scramble?

This can happen if the pan is too hot. Always remove from heat before adding the egg mixture.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely, peas, spinach, or zucchini pair well with the dish.

How do I make it spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic for a bit of heat.

Can I use other cheeses?

Yes, try Grana Padano or a mild aged cheese as alternatives.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Not recommended, as the sauce texture may change upon thawing.

Do I need to salt the gnocchi water?

Yes, salting the water enhances the flavor of the gnocchi.

Can I use homemade gnocchi?

Definitely! Homemade gnocchi can elevate the dish with a softer texture.

Conclusion

Gnocchi Carbonara brings the classic comfort of carbonara into a pillowy, indulgent gnocchi dish that’s both satisfying and elegant. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, it’s a meal that feels special without the fuss—perfect for any night of the week.

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