Gnocchi Mac & Cheese with Pancetta

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.

Author: These Carbs Don't Count

Category: Italian

Cuisine: Italian

Difficulty: MEDIUM

Prep. Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 2 bowls

Calories: 1,609 kcal per serving

Ingredients

4 ounces - pancetta
1 tbsp - unsalted butter
2 cloves - garlic
1 ½ cups - heavy cream
⅛ - salt
⅛ - black pepper
½ tsp - garlic powder
½ tsp - onion powder
1 cup - shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup - shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup - grated Parmesan cheese
1 lb - gnocchi
⅛ - reserved gnocchi cooking water

Instructions

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook pancetta until crispy. Remove and set aside.
Add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until fully melted and creamy.
Meanwhile, cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Reserve a splash of cooking water and drain.
Add cooked gnocchi to the cheese sauce along with half the pancetta and a splash of pasta water. Stir to combine.
Optional: Top with additional mozzarella and broil for a few minutes until bubbly and golden.
Serve warm with remaining pancetta sprinkled on top.