GNOCCHI AND BACON BAKE

5 from 4 votes

Tender gnocchi dumplings are covered in a smooth and creamy cheese sauce flavored with bacon and fresh chives.

Prep Time10

Cook Time30

Total Time40

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Keyword: bacon recipes, best gnocchi recipe, easy casserole recipes, easy italian recipes, gnocchi recipe, how to make gnocchi, what is gnocchi

Servings:

20 to 24 ounces gnocchi, cooked according to the directions on the package, and drained
4 slices thick cut bacon, cooked and crumbled, divided
1 tablespoon butter
¼ cup all purpose flour
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 cups milk
½ cup low sodium chicken broth
½ cup shredded gruyere cheese, (you can also use shredded mozzarella cheese or an Italian cheese blend)
3 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
¼ cup shredded fresh parmesan cheese

Preheat oven to 400˚F.
Lightly grease a 9x13 baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
Prepare gnocchi according to directions on the package and drain.
Prepare bacon; set aside.
In the meantime, melt butter in a large 12-inch skillet set over medium heat.
To the melted butter add flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; whisk constantly for 1 minute.
Slowly whisk in the milk and broth; whisk until well blended.
Bring mixture to a boil, and continue whisking until mixture is creamy and thickened.
Remove skillet from heat.
Stir in cheese, half of the crumbled bacon, and chives. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a little more liquid.
Stir in the gnocchi.
Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish.
Top with parmesan cheese.
Bake for 20 minutes, or until top is lightly browned.
Remove from oven; let stand a few minutes.
Top with remaining bacon and serve.

Serves 4 to 6 people.