If you are craving a dish that bursts with flavor and comfort in every bite, the Spicy Tomato Gnocchi with Bacon Recipe is an absolute must-try. This recipe combines pillowy potato gnocchi with a rich, creamy tomato sauce that has just the right hint of spice, all elevated by crispy, smoky bacon. The result is a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable, perfect for those cozy nights when you want something warm, hearty, and packed with bold flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of the ingredients fool you—each one plays a crucial role in building this dish’s layered taste and velvety texture. From the crispy bacon to the fresh basil and the perfect touch of seasoning, every element brings something special to the table.
- Bacon (6 strips thick-cut): Adds smoky crunch and deep savory notes that transform the dish.
- Onion (1/2 medium, chopped): Provides a gentle sweetness and aroma as it softens.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Brings essential pungency and warmth.
- Dry white wine (1/4 cup): Helps deglaze the pan and adds a subtle complexity.
- DeLallo Double Concentrated Tomato Paste (1/4 cup): Gives the sauce its rich, vibrant tomato base.
- Chicken broth (1 cup): Helps create a light yet flavorful sauce consistency.
- Heavy cream (3/4 cup): Adds luscious creaminess that balances the acidity and spice.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon): Gives the dish its signature kick—feel free to adjust!
- Italian seasoning (1/2 teaspoon): A blend of herbs that enhance the sauce’s aroma and flavor.
- DeLallo Potato Gnocchi (1 pound, uncooked): The tender, fluffy base that soaks up all the sauce beautifully.
- Fresh basil (small handful, thinly sliced or torn): Adds a bright, fresh finish that cuts through the rich sauce.
- Parmesan cheese (freshly grated, optional but recommended): For a salty, nutty topping that pairs perfectly with every bite.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to bring out all the flavors.
How to Make Spicy Tomato Gnocchi with Bacon Recipe
Step 1: Crisp the Bacon
Start by cutting your thick-cut bacon into bite-sized pieces using kitchen shears for ease. Cook them in a skillet over medium-high heat until they’re perfectly crispy. Don’t toss out that golden bacon fat left behind—it’s pure flavor magic and will be the base for your sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion
Lower the heat to medium and add the chopped onion to the bacon fat. Let it cook gently for 5 to 7 minutes until softened and fragrant. This slow cooking draws out its natural sweetness, which helps balance the spicy tomato sauce later.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Wine
Stir in the minced garlic and pour in the white wine. Let the mixture bubble away until the wine has reduced by about half. This reduction step concentrates the wine’s flavor, adding a lovely depth without overpowering the sauce.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Now it’s time for the heart of the sauce. Add the tomato paste, chicken broth, heavy cream, crushed red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Scrape up any browned bits from the pan bottom to capture all that smoky goodness. Stir everything together until you get a smooth, creamy sauce.
Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi in Sauce
Bring the sauce to a gentle bubble and add your potato gnocchi straight from the package, uncooked. Let them cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the gnocchi puff up tenderly in the sauce. This method helps the gnocchi absorb maximum flavor.
Step 6: Combine Bacon and Basil
Once the gnocchi are cooked just right, stir in the crisp bacon pieces and fresh basil. The smoky bacon adds texture contrast while the basil brings a fresh herbaceous lift to every bite.
Step 7: Season and Serve
Give your dish a final taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve it straight from the pan with a generous grating of Parmesan on top if you want that extra cheesy sparkle—pure comfort in a bowl!
How to Serve Spicy Tomato Gnocchi with Bacon Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly torn basil leaves or a sprinkle of chopped parsley make gorgeous and flavor-packed garnishes. If you love a little extra indulgence, a dusting of finely grated Parmesan cheese brings that perfect salty, nutty finish that pairs beautifully with the creamy tomato base.
Side Dishes
This dish shines as a one-pan wonder, but it’s also wonderful alongside a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Crusty garlic bread or a warm loaf of sourdough helps sop up any leftover sauce for a fill-your-plate kind of meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re entertaining, serve the Spicy Tomato Gnocchi with Bacon Recipe in shallow bowls, stacking the gnocchi with a drizzle of extra sauce and finishing touches of basil and crispy bacon on top. For a cozy night in, gather around the table family-style straight from the skillet—the convivial vibe makes the flavors taste even better.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Spicy Tomato Gnocchi with Bacon Recipe keeps well in the fridge for 2 to 3 days in an airtight container. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next-day meal just as delicious—maybe even better!
Freezing
While gnocchi can become a bit delicate when frozen, you can freeze the sauce and bacon mixture separately in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently, then toss in freshly cooked gnocchi for best texture.
Reheating
To reheat leftovers, warm the gnocchi gently in a skillet over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the sauce seems thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up and keep it creamy and smooth.
FAQs
Can I use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon can give you a leaner option with a slightly different flavor, but it will still add that lovely smoky crunch that makes this dish so irresistible.
How spicy is the dish? Can I adjust the heat?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle spicy warmth, but you can easily adjust the amount to your preference—add less for milder heat or more if you like a real kick.
Can I substitute the gnocchi for pasta?
If you prefer, small pasta shapes like orecchiette or gnocchetti work nicely, but the characteristic pillowy texture of gnocchi pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce in this recipe.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Adding sautéed mushrooms can provide extra umami to compensate for the smoky bacon flavor.
What wine pairs well when serving this dish?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy tomato sauce and balances the richness of the bacon beautifully.
Final Thoughts
There’s truly nothing like a comforting bowl of Spicy Tomato Gnocchi with Bacon Recipe to bring warmth and happiness to your table. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe offers an unbeatable combination of spice, creaminess, and smoky goodness. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight treat!
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Spicy Tomato Gnocchi with Bacon Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A rich and creamy Spicy Tomato Gnocchi with crispy bacon, simmered in a flavorful tomato cream sauce infused with garlic, white wine, and Italian spices. This comforting dish balances the tender potato gnocchi with a hint of heat from red pepper flakes and the freshness of basil, perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
Meat
- 6 strips thick-cut bacon
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small handful fresh basil, sliced thin or torn
Liquids & Sauces
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 1/4 cup DeLallo Double Concentrated Tomato Paste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup heavy/whipping cream
Pantry & Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Main Ingredient
- 1 pound DeLallo Potato Gnocchi (uncooked)
Optional Toppings
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions
- Cook Bacon: Cut the bacon into small pieces using kitchen shears for ease. Place bacon pieces in a skillet and cook over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove bacon from the skillet and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Leave the bacon fat in the pan for cooking the sauce.
- Sauté Onion: Lower the heat to medium and add the chopped onion to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent, approximately 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Wine: Stir in the minced garlic and pour in the dry white wine. Allow the mixture to bubble and reduce by half, concentrating the flavors.
- Make the Sauce: Add the tomato paste, chicken broth, heavy cream, crushed red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom to incorporate them into the sauce. Stir continuously until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
- Cook Gnocchi in Sauce: Once the sauce comes to a gentle boil, add the uncooked potato gnocchi directly to the skillet. Cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the gnocchi are fully cooked and tender.
- Combine Bacon and Basil: Stir the crispy cooked bacon and fresh basil into the gnocchi and sauce mixture. This adds flavor and freshness to the dish.
- Season and Serve: Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the gnocchi immediately, topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese if desired for an added savory richness.
Notes
- You can adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to suit your desired spice level.
- If unavailable, substitute dry white wine with extra chicken broth or a splash of white wine vinegar for acidity.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Fresh basil can be substituted with dried Italian herbs if needed, but fresh gives the best flavor.
