Marry Me Gnocchi Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe yields 6 servings. Adjust ingredient amounts if scaling, but cooking times and steps remain the same. Note: Not all recipes scale perfectly.

• 1/2 pound bacon
• 1 (16 ounce) package gnocchi
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup freshly shaved Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes

Directions

1. Place a heavy skillet on the stove and lay the bacon slices flat in the cold pan without overlapping. Turn the heat to medium.
2. Cook bacon for 5-7 minutes until it begins to curl and brown. Flip slices with tongs and cook an additional 5-7 minutes to desired crispness.
3. Transfer bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Once cooled, roughly chop.
4. Add gnocchi to the same skillet. Let cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes until lightly golden.
5. Stir in minced garlic and saut for 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Pour in chicken broth, then slowly add the cream, stirring to combine.
7. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
8. Fold in the chopped bacon, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through.
9. Taste before adding salt bacon and Parmesan may provide enough seasoning on their own.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 407
• Total Fat: 20g (26% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 8g (42% DV)
• Cholesterol: 78mg (26% DV)
• Sodium: 880mg (38% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 35g (13% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 2g (7% DV)
• Total Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 21g (41% DV)
• Vitamin C: 7mg (7% DV)
• Calcium: 99mg (8% DV)
• Iron: 2mg (13% DV)
• Potassium: 493mg (10% DV)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Individual needs may vary.

**Nutrient data may not be available for all ingredients. Consult your healthcare provider if following a medically restrictive diet.

History and Origin of Marry Me Gnocchi

Marry Me Gnocchi is a modern twist on the traditional Italian gnocchi, a small dumpling typically made from potatoes, flour, and eggs. While gnocchi itself dates back to Roman times, this variation draws inspiration from the popular Marry Me Chicken dish, which became widely known in American cuisine in the early 2010s. The original chicken recipe was praised for its creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and a hint of spiceflavors that were seamlessly adapted into a vegetarian-friendly gnocchi version. The dishs playful name, Marry Me, suggests a meal so delicious it might inspire a proposal, highlighting its indulgent, comforting character.

Regional Characteristics

Though gnocchi is traditionally Italian, this particular recipe reflects a blend of Italian and American influences. The use of sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese is reminiscent of Italian culinary traditions, while the creamy sauce and bacon incorporation lean towards contemporary American comfort food. The dish is particularly popular in urban areas with a strong Italian-American presence, where chefs often experiment with classic pasta recipes to create more visually appealing and flavorful presentations.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Marry Me Gnocchi distinguishes itself from standard gnocchi dishes primarily through its sauce and preparation method. Unlike classic gnocchi served with a simple tomato or pesto sauce, this dish features a rich cream-based sauce infused with garlic, Italian seasoning, and a subtle kick from red pepper flakes. The addition of bacon provides a smoky depth uncommon in traditional Italian recipes. While it shares flavor elements with Marry Me Chicken, the gnocchi version offers a softer, pillowy texture, making it unique in both taste and mouthfeel.

Typical Serving Settings

Marry Me Gnocchi is versatile in presentation and can be served in casual home dinners or upscale bistros. It is commonly featured as a main course in dinner parties, paired with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. Some restaurants serve it as a decadent side dish accompanying grilled meats or seafood. Due to its rich and creamy nature, it is often presented in smaller portions in fine dining settings to complement other menu items without overwhelming the palate.

Interesting Facts

• The recipes name, Marry Me, originated from its purportedly irresistible taste, which became a popular phrase on food blogs and social media.
• Using bacon grease to cook the gnocchi enhances the flavor and slightly crisps the dumplings, adding a textural contrast that surprises diners accustomed to soft gnocchi.
• Sun-dried tomatoes, though not a traditional gnocchi ingredient, contribute a concentrated umami flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy Parmesan sauce.
• Some variations of the dish include fresh spinach or arugula, creating a colorful, nutrient-rich version that maintains the signature creaminess and flavor balance.
• Despite its modern American origin, the dish pays homage to Italian culinary techniques, blending pan-searing, slow simmering, and careful seasoning in one skillet.

FAQ about Marry Me Gnocchi Recipe

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