Creamy pancetta gnocchi is a luxurious and comforting dish that combines pillowy gnocchi with crispy pancetta, all coated in a rich, creamy sauce. This Italian-inspired dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or as a show-stopping entrée for special occasions. The combination of soft, tender gnocchi, the savory saltiness of pancetta, and the creamy sauce creates an irresistible blend of flavors and textures.
The base of creamy pancetta gnocchi is the gnocchi itself, which is typically made from a mixture of potatoes, flour, and eggs. These little dumplings are soft, light, and absorb the creamy sauce beautifully, giving every bite a melt-in-your-mouth quality. You can use store-bought gnocchi for convenience or make it from scratch for a more authentic experience.
Pancetta, a dry-cured Italian bacon, adds a savory depth to the dish. It’s sautéed until crispy, which brings out its rich, smoky flavor. The pancetta adds not only a delicious salty taste but also a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with the softness of the gnocchi. Once the pancetta is crispy, it’s set aside, and the same pan is used to make the creamy sauce.
The sauce is a simple yet indulgent combination of heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. The cream creates a smooth, velvety base, while the Parmesan adds richness and umami. A touch of white wine can be added to deglaze the pan, adding extra depth to the sauce. Once the sauce is ready, the cooked gnocchi is tossed into the pan, allowing it to soak up all the creamy goodness. The crispy pancetta is then stirred in, adding a burst of flavor to each bite.
For an added touch, sprinkle some fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, over the top to brighten the dish and add a pop of color. This creamy pancetta gnocchi is perfect on its own but can also be paired with a simple green salad or crusty bread to complete the meal.
This dish is a beautiful combination of rich, creamy flavors and savory pancetta, making it a crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 200 grams Gnocchi store-bought or homemade
- 100 grams Pancetta diced
- 1 cup Heavy cream or milk
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 50 grams Parmesan cheese grated
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add gnocchi and cook until they float to the top. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add pancetta and cook until crispy. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper. Return gnocchi and pancetta to the skillet.
- Gently mix until gnocchi is well-coated with the creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
I don’t know… the cream was kinda too much for me. Next time, I might just use half or something. Not bad overall though.
I actually loved the creaminess! It just makes everything taste so rich and delicious. Maybe you could try a little less next time, but I think it’s part of the charm of the dish. 🥰
I dunno, but cream is supposed to be creamy! Why would you go cutting it down? Just means there’s less flavor. Maybe try a different recipe if you didn’t like this one as much.
This is the best gnocchi I’ve ever had! Super creamy and delicious. My family loved it!
Absolutely loved this recipe! So creamy and delicious. Will make it again for sure.
Gnocchi is just doughy lumps 😂. But I guess the sauce makes it better or something?
I dunno about boiling the gnocchi; they always stick to the pot for me. Maybe try frying them first?
I used to have that problem too, but make sure the water is really boiling before you add the gnocchi. It helps a lot! Give it another shot! 🌟
Easy to make, but the sauce was a bit too rich for my taste. I prefer lighter dishes.
I totally get what you mean! I also found it a bit heavy. Maybe substituting half the cream with broth would help?
Rich is good! That’s what makes it tasty! You’re missing out on the flavor if you want lighter dishes!
Lol, I didn’t have gnocchi so I used spaghetti… still turned out pretty good. 😂
This is the best gnocchi recipe I’ve ever tried! So creamy and delicious!
I tried this last night but I subbed the pancetta with bacon. It was still good but not the same!
Tried this for my boyfriend and he ate all of it! 😂 10/10 would recommend!
10/10? Really? I found it kinda bland. Maybe I missed something? 🤔
That’s awesome! My boyfriend loved it too! Creamy gnocchi is life! 😍
Too much cream, doesn’t need that much! But pancetta’s good. Gnocchi must’ve been okay since they floated.
I think the cream is just fine! It makes it so rich and flavorful. You might be missing out if you cut back on it.
Nah, I like it creamy! It’s a comfort food, after all. The pancetta pairs perfectly with all that cream.
Really? You think this is a good idea? Too much cream, can’t be healthy!
Why is there even pancetta in this? Isn’t gnocchi supposed to be vegetarian? Don’t get it…
I think the recipe could use more seasoning. Was kinda bland. Salt isn’t enough!
I totally agree! I added some Italian herbs and it made a huge difference. Don’t skimp on the flavor!
I don’t like using store-bought gnocchi, tastes like cardboard. I prefer homemade! This might work better with that.
Do people really like gnocchi? I find em kinda mushy 😕
Absolutely delicious! Made this for dinner and my family loved it. Will definitely make again!
Yum, this tastes just like my grandma’s cooking! Nostalgic vibes! 🌟
My kids loved it! I added some spinach for color, and it was a hit at dinner. Thx!
This is a lifesaver! Just whip it up when you’re tired and want something tasty. Thank you!
This sounds yum! I’ll definitely be making it this weekend. Who needs fancy meals when you got this!
Really? Gnocchi takes time! Fancy meals are worth it for special occasions. Just sayin’.
Totally agree! Simple meals are the best! Can’t wait to hear how yours turns out. 😋
It was ok, but I feel like it needed more flavor. Maybe add some spinach next time?
Doesn’t sound difficult, but I burnt the garlic! Make sure you watch it closely.
Garlic burnt? That’s a bummer! I usually just skip the garlic then, no harm done haha!
Burnt garlic can ruin a dish, but don’t give up! Maybe next time try a lower heat? Garlic cooks fast!
Pancetta? What’s that? Is it just bacon? Guess I’ll try this with bacon instead. 🤷♂️
Pancetta is like a fancy bacon! It’s super delicious and adds a nice flavor. But hey, using bacon will still make it tasty! 😊
Super easy and quick! Perfect for a weeknight meal. 👌
It was ok, but way too creamy for my taste. Maybe I’ll try it with less cream next time.
I totally get it! Cream can be a bit overwhelming sometimes. Maybe try using half and half?