The aroma of sizzling bacon mingles with the warmth of a creamy tomato sauce, instantly drawing you into the comforting world of this Spicy Tomato Gnocchi with Bacon. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that encapsulates the essence of cozy family dinners and weekend indulgences. Imagine a plate filled with plump gnocchi, bathed in a luscious sauce that’s both rich and slightly spicy, topped with fresh basil that adds a hint of brightness.
This recipe is close to my heart, having made countless memories sharing it with loved ones over casual Friday night dinners. Each spoonful takes me back to times spent laughing around the table, savoring each bite, and wishing for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself on a quiet evening, this dish feels celebratory. It’s perfect for those colder months when you crave something hearty and satisfying, yet quick enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious meal together!
Table of Contents
Why This Is The Best Spicy Tomato Gnocchi with Bacon Recipe
What makes this Spicy Tomato Gnocchi with Bacon recipe a must-try? For starters, it’s remarkably easy to prepare. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can serve a dish that feels gourmet without spending hours in the kitchen. The flavor profile is irresistible, featuring a perfect blend of creamy tomato and the smokiness of bacon, balanced by a delightful kick from red pepper flakes. Plus, the visual appeal of the gnocchi nestled in a vibrant sauce topped with fresh basil creates a feast for the eyes. This dish is versatile and suitable for any occasion—be it a family dinner or a potluck. It can also be adjusted to meet dietary needs, with a few simple swaps for gluten-free or dairy-free options. You’re going to love it!
Ingredients You’ll Need
6 strips thick-cut bacon: This adds a wonderful smoky flavor and a satisfying crunch. If you’re looking to cut down on fat, turkey bacon can be a lighter alternative.
1/2 medium onion, chopped: It sweetens the sauce as it cooks, bringing depth to the overall flavor. A yellow onion works best, but you can use red onion for a slightly different taste.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is essential for that aromatic zest. In a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, however, the fresh flavor is hard to beat.
1/4 cup dry white wine: This ingredient enhances the sauce’s richness and adds an acidic balance. For non-alcoholic versions, use an additional chicken broth instead.
1/4 cup DeLallo Double Concentrated Tomato Paste: Packing a concentrated punch of tomato flavor, it creates a beautiful sauce. In its absence, regular tomato paste will suffice, but you may need to adjust the amount for acidity.
1 cup chicken broth: This serves as the base for the sauce, bringing all the flavors together. For a vegetarian option, vegetable broth can be used.
3/4 cup heavy/whipping cream: It creates a velvety sauce that clings perfectly to the gnocchi. Light cream can replace it for a lower-fat version, though the sauce won’t be as rich.
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or to taste): This is where the spiciness comes in! Adjust it according to your heat preference; more flakes mean more flavor.
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds an aromatic layer to the sauce. If you don’t have pre-mixed Italian seasoning, use a combination of basil, oregano, and thyme.
1 pound DeLallo Potato Gnocchi (uncooked): Soft and pillowy, these are the stars of the dish. If unavailable, homemade gnocchi or even pasta can work as an alternative.
1 small handful fresh basil (sliced thin/torn): Fresh basil adds a burst of color and an iconic Italian flavor. Dried basil can be used, but fresh is preferred for brightness.
Freshly grated parmesan cheese (for serving, optional but recommended): Who can resist the savory touch of parmesan? It adds an extra layer of flavor. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can mimic its taste.
Salt & pepper (to taste): Basic yet essential for seasoning the entire dish.
How to Make Spicy Tomato Gnocchi with Bacon
Cut and Cook the Bacon
Start by cutting the bacon into small pieces. I find that using kitchen shears makes this process a breeze. Add the pieces to a skillet over medium-high heat and fry them until they achieve a crispy texture. This will only take about 5-7 minutes. Once they’re perfectly crisp, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess grease. Resist the temptation to wipe out the bacon fat in the skillet; it’s flavor gold!
Sauté the Onion
Next, reduce the heat to medium and toss in your chopped onion. Sauté it in the residual bacon fat until it softens and becomes translucent, which should take roughly 5-7 minutes. This step really builds the foundation for your sauce and adds an incredible depth to the overall flavor profile.
Add Garlic and Wine
Now it’s time to stir in the minced garlic and pour in the white wine. Allow it to bubble and reduce by half, creating a fragrant mixture. The garlic will release its aromas while the white wine will infuse the dish with acidity, balancing the richness to come.
Combine Sauce Ingredients
Once reduced, stir in the tomato paste, chicken broth, heavy cream, crushed red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits clinging to the bottom of the skillet; this is where flavor lies. Stir everything until you have a smooth sauce, and let it bubble gently—this is when the magic starts!
Cook the Gnocchi
When your sauce is bubbling, add the gnocchi right into the pan. Cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice the sauce thickening as the gnocchi absorbs the flavors and cooks through. Keep an eye on it! When the gnocchi are tender and the sauce has reached your desired consistency, you’re almost there.
Fold in Bacon and Basil
Finally, stir the crispy bacon and fresh basil into the gnocchi. This step not only adds flavor but also a burst of color that makes your dish look inviting. Taste before serving and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve Immediately
Serve your Spicy Tomato Gnocchi with Bacon right away. It’s best enjoyed hot and fresh, so don’t forget to top it with freshly grated parmesan cheese, if you like!
Tips for Success
- Cook the bacon over medium-high heat to achieve that perfect crispiness without burning it.
- When sautéing the onion, look for it to become soft and slightly caramelized, which enhances its natural sweetness.
- Use a good quality dry white wine; it can significantly elevate the flavor. If you don’t drink wine, simply use more chicken broth.
- Stir the gnocchi occasionally while cooking in the sauce to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
- Adjust the level of crushed red pepper flakes according to your taste preferences. You can always add more if you like extra heat.
Serve It With
- A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette would complement the richness beautifully.
- Some crusty garlic bread will be perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.
- For a special touch, drizzle balsamic glaze over the top just before serving. It adds a wonderful sweetness and acidity.
How To Store & Reheat Leftovers
To store leftovers, let your Spicy Tomato Gnocchi with Bacon cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re looking to keep it longer, consider freezing it—this dish can stay frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce’s consistency. Sometimes the texture may change a bit upon reheating, but a good stir should do the trick!
Tips & Variations
Feel free to experiment with this dish to suit your tastes! Here are a few ideas:
- Swap out the bacon for pancetta or a smoked sausage for a different flavor kick.
- For a healthier touch, add in some fresh spinach or kale while the gnocchi cooks, allowing it to wilt beautifully.
- Try incorporating different herbs such as parsley or oregano for unique flavor profiles.
- If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth.
- Experiment with adding a splash of lemon juice or zest to enhance brightness and flavor complexity.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi can go directly into the cooking sauce. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as they may take slightly longer to cook through compared to fresh.
How do I make this recipe vegetarian?
To transform this dish into a vegetarian delight, simply omit the bacon and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a rich flavor. You may want to add in some sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for texture.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato paste?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! Use about 3-4 medium tomatoes. Blanch them first, then remove the skins and chop them finely. Add them to the sauce in place of tomato paste, but be aware that the sauce will be a touch less concentrated.
What can I substitute for heavy cream to make it dairy-free?
Coconut cream or cashew cream are great dairy-free alternatives. They will bring creaminess without the dairy, but will lend a slightly different flavor profile.
There you have it: a heartwarming bowl of Spicy Tomato Gnocchi with Bacon that’s sure to impress and satisfy. Whether you’re cooking for friends, family, or simply treating yourself, this dish embraces flavors and comfort. Don’t hesitate to experiment with its ingredients—who knows what delightful variations you might invent! Enjoy every flavorful bite and create new memories along the way. Happy cooking!
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Recipe Card
Spicy Tomato Gnocchi with Bacon
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Spicy Tomato Gnocchi with Bacon combines a luscious creamy sauce, crispy bacon, and a delightful kick, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or quick weeknight meals.
Ingredients
- 6 strips thick-cut bacon
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 1/4 cup DeLallo Double Concentrated Tomato Paste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 pound DeLallo Potato Gnocchi (uncooked)
- 1 small handful fresh basil (sliced thin/torn)
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese (for serving, optional but recommended)
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Cut the bacon into small pieces and fry in a skillet over medium-high heat until crispy.
- Sauté chopped onion in the bacon fat until soft and translucent.
- Add minced garlic and pour in dry white wine. Reduce the mixture by half.
- Stir in tomato paste, chicken broth, heavy cream, crushed red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning.
- Add uncooked gnocchi to the bubbling sauce and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Fold in cooked bacon and fresh basil before serving.
- Serve immediately with freshly grated parmesan cheese, if desired.
Notes
For a lighter version, consider using turkey bacon instead of thick-cut bacon.
Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.
For a vegetarian option, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
