Creamy Bacon Parmesan Gnocchi - the BEST weeknight side dish or meal! Super tender & crisp gnocchi cooked in a creamy parmesan sauce with loads of flavor! Add chicken or shrimp for a complete meal! Ready in 20 minutes!
While you're waiting for the water to come to a boil, place a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crisp, approximately 8-10 minutes.
Using a slotted spoon, remove bacon to a paper towel-lined plate and set aside. Remove all bacon fat from skillet and place back over medium heat, leaving brown bits in the skillet.
Add gnocchi to the water and cook for 2-3 monutes, or until the gnocchi floats to the top. Follow directions on the package.
Add butter to skillet. Once melted and bubbling, add the chopped onions and allow to saute 2-3 minutes, or until translucent.
Drain gnocchi and add it to the pan. Brown both sides 3-5 minutes or until browned and crisp. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Pour in the half and half and broth. Bring to a low boil for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to cook down. Lower to a simmer and cook 3-4 minutes or until the sauce reduces/thickens to your preference.If the sauce is too thick, pour in a splash or two of broth until the sauce thins out.
Add in the parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy. Add the chopped spinach and cook 1-2 minutes, or until wilted.
Serve garnished with black pepper and freshly grated parmesan cheese with your favorite baked bread!
Notes
Bacon: I find it easier to cook the bacon pre-chopped, as it helps to not only cook it faster, but crisper than by cooking it in slices.Half & Half: Can be substituted with heavy cream or milk of choice.Vegetable Broth: Can be substituted with chicken broth or vegetable/chicken stock for an extra punch of flavor.