Print

Gnocchi Carbonara Recipe

4.9 from 626 reviews

This Gnocchi Carbonara is a delightful twist on the classic Italian pasta dish, combining pillowy potato gnocchi with crispy bacon, a creamy egg and Parmesan sauce, and fresh garlic. It’s quick to prepare, comforting, and perfect for a delicious weeknight meal or special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Gnocchi

  • 1 pound Potato Gnocchi (homemade or store-bought)

Carbonara Sauce & Toppings

  • 6 ounces Bacon (substitute with pancetta or turkey bacon for a lighter option)
  • 2 Eggs (fresh eggs yield the best results)
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste)
  • 2 cloves Garlic (fresh garlic is ideal)
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or butter for a richer flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 2 tablespoons Chopped Fresh Parsley (or basil/chives)

Instructions

  1. Cook Gnocchi: Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add the potato gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Drain the gnocchi well and set aside.
  2. Prepare Bacon and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced bacon and fry until crispy, approximately 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  3. Mix Egg and Cheese: In a separate bowl, whisk together the fresh eggs and grated Parmesan cheese until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  4. Combine Gnocchi with Bacon: Toss the drained gnocchi into the skillet with the crispy bacon and garlic. Remove the skillet from heat immediately to prevent scrambling the eggs in the next step.
  5. Create the Sauce: Pour the egg and Parmesan mixture over the hot gnocchi in the skillet. Stir quickly and continuously to coat the gnocchi and create a creamy, silky sauce that thickens with the residual heat. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish and add additional grated Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately to enjoy the gnocchi at its creamiest and warmest.

Notes

  • Using fresh eggs and quality Parmesan cheese greatly enhances the flavor and texture of the carbonara sauce.
  • If pancetta is available, it can substitute bacon for a more authentic carbonara taste.
  • Do not reheat leftovers as the sauce may separate; instead, enjoy fresh.
  • For a richer flavor, substitute olive oil with butter when frying bacon.
  • Be sure to remove the skillet from heat before adding the egg mixture to avoid scrambling the eggs.

Keywords: Gnocchi, Carbonara, Italian Pasta, Potato Gnocchi, Bacon, Parmesan, Creamy Sauce