From the Cook
From the Cook
From the Cook
1/4
Gnocchi Mac & Cheese with Pancetta
Instructions
1
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook pancetta until crispy. Remove and set aside.
2
Add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3
Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
4
Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until fully melted and creamy.
5
Meanwhile, cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Reserve a splash of cooking water and drain.
6
Add cooked gnocchi to the cheese sauce along with half the pancetta and a splash of pasta water. Stir to combine.
7
Optional: Top with additional mozzarella and broil for a few minutes until bubbly and golden.
8
Serve warm with remaining pancetta sprinkled on top.
My Calorie Intake
Review & Earn
Be the first to review this recipe and earn a 20% Bonus
Level up & unlock free Premium by reviewing recipes!
My Notes
Your kitchen notebook is waiting.
Whether it's a recipe tweak or an inspiration burst — jot it down here.
Tips & Tricks (5)
- Reserve Gnocchi Water First 💧Always reserve at least 1 cup of starchy gnocchi cooking water before draining—this is essential for adjusting your sauce consistency and helps emulsify the cheese sauce into a silky, cohesive texture.
- Render Pancetta Slowly for Maximum Flavor 🥓Cook pancetta over medium heat rather than high to allow the fat to render gradually, creating crispy pieces while infusing the rendered fat with deep, savory flavor for the entire dish.
- Bloom Garlic in Butter 🧈Toast minced garlic gently in melted butter for 30-45 seconds before adding cream to develop a mellow, rounded garlic flavor that won't overpower or taste raw in the final sauce.
- Add Cheese Off-Heat for Silkiness ✨Remove the pan from heat before stirring in your cheeses—adding them to a cooling sauce prevents curdling and ensures a smooth, creamy emulsion that coats every gnocchi piece perfectly.
- Toast Under the Broiler Strategically 🔆Watch the mozzarella topping constantly during broiling (it takes only 2-3 minutes)—broil just until golden and bubbly, not until the edges burn, to maintain the creamy sauce underneath while achieving perfect textural contrast.
Recipe Facts
Diet at a Glance
Low Sugar
My Calorie Intake
Smart Nutrition 
Nutrition Per Serving
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Glycemic Analysis
Glycemic Index
Glycemic Load
More Recipes by These Carbs Don't Count
Check out more These Carbs Don't Count content!Browse These Carbs Don't Count recipes!
No Recipes Available
EXPLORE
Looking for more?
Use our smart searchtool, explore by category, or browse your customized food feed.