Craving a dish that combines the heartiness of Italian comfort food with the irresistible crunch of crispy bacon? Look no further than this Tomato Bacon Bocconcini Gnocchi Bake! In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a delightful meal that tantalizes your taste buds with gooey cheese, savory tomatoes, and perfectly cooked gnocchi. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the delicious world of this baked masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 cup bocconcini cheese, halved
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil or cooking spray.
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crisp and golden brown, about 5-6 minutes. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
- Using the same skillet with bacon drippings, add the gnocchi and cook for 2-3 minutes, gently turning to lightly brown the exterior. This will help prevent the gnocchi from becoming too soft during baking.
- Add the diced tomatoes with their juice to the skillet. Sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
- Transfer the gnocchi and tomato mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the crispy bacon pieces evenly over the top.
- Distribute the halved bocconcini cheese across the surface of the dish, ensuring even coverage.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden, and the gnocchi is heated through.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the dish to set.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves just before serving. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this Italian-inspired bake.
Tips
- Perfectly Crisp Bacon: For the crispiest bacon, ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chopped bacon. This helps render the fat quickly and results in a delightful crunch.
- Brown Your Gnocchi: Don’t skip the step of browning the gnocchi! This not only adds flavor but also helps them maintain their texture during baking.
- Customize Your Cheese: While bocconcini adds a creamy touch, feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or parmesan for an extra flavor boost.
- Add Extra Veggies: Consider tossing in some sautéed spinach or roasted bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Garnishing with fresh basil right before serving brightens the dish and enhances its aromatic qualities.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the dish sit for a few minutes after baking. This allows the flavors to meld and makes serving easier. Enjoy your cooking adventure with this delectable Tomato Bacon Bocconcini Gnocchi Bake!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 331kcal
Carbohydrates: 27g
Protein: 17g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 40mg
