These Carbs Don't Count
May 13, 2025
This Gnocchi Mac & Cheese with Pancetta is a rich, creamy twist on a classic. Crispy pancetta adds savory depth to the luscious cheese sauce, while pillowy gnocchi replaces traditional pasta for an extra indulgent bite. Finished with mozzarella on top and optionally broiled to golden perfection, this dish is everything you love about mac and cheese—just elevated.
13 Ingredients
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1/4
Gnocchi Mac & Cheese with Pancetta
Instructions
1
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In a large skillet over medium heat, cook pancetta until crispy. Remove and set aside.
2
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Add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3
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Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
4
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Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until fully melted and creamy.
5
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Meanwhile, cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Reserve a splash of cooking water and drain.
6
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Add cooked gnocchi to the cheese sauce along with half the pancetta and a splash of pasta water. Stir to combine.
7
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Optional: Top with additional mozzarella and broil for a few minutes until bubbly and golden.
8
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Serve warm with remaining pancetta sprinkled on top.
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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Tips & Tricks (5)
- Gnocchi Water Magic 💧Reserve 1 cup of gnocchi cooking water before draining—its starchy richness helps create a silkier, more emulsified cheese sauce with perfect consistency.
- Pancetta Crispiness Technique 🥓Dice pancetta into small, uniform cubes and cook slowly over medium-low heat to render fat completely and achieve maximum crispiness without burning.
- Cheese Melting Pro Tip 🧀Grate cheeses yourself and add them gradually off direct heat, stirring constantly to prevent separation and ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
- Broiling Perfection Hack 🔥When broiling the final dish, place the rack 4-6 inches from the heat source and watch carefully—golden-brown takes just 2-3 minutes.
- Gnocchi Texture Secret 🥣Pat gnocchi dry after boiling to prevent excess water in your sauce, and add them gently to maintain their delicate pillowy texture.
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