Chicken Bacon Ranch Gnocchi

Sometimes you need a dinner that checks all the boxes and satisfies everyone at the table This creamy cheesy Chicken Bacon Ranch Gnocchi is the ultimate weeknight comfort food and it comes together with surprisingly little effort Loaded with tender chicken smoky bacon pillowy gnocchi and a blanket of melty cheese this feels like a cozy casserole and restaurantworthy pasta all in one

The combination of bacon ranch and gnocchi totally won my family over the first time I made it My youngest asks for seconds every time and I never have leftovers

Ingredients

• Gnocchi: Use fresh or shelf stable These Italian potato dumplings plump up beautifully and hold all the sauce Look for firm gnocchi with no black spots
• Bacon: Thick cut bacon gives you the most flavor and crisp texture Render fat for deeper taste and sprinkle some pieces inside and on top
• Heavy cream: Gives the sauce its luxurious body Choose cream with high butterfat for best results
• Chicken thighs: Juicy and flavorful especially when browned before mixing into the dish White meat works too but thighs stay more tender
• Aged white cheddar: Melts beautifully and adds a sharp bite Freshly shredded off the block is key to avoiding clumpy sauce
• Mild cheddar: Brings classic creamy comfort and orange color
• Provolone cheese: Lends a bit of stretch and mellow melt Layers over the top for a gooey crust
• Ranch seasoning: This pantry staple blends herbs and tangy notes If you have the time homemade ranch powder tastes even better
• Cream cheese: Softens and stabilizes silky sauces Room temperature makes it easier to blend
• Parsley: Adds a fresh pop and color to finish Chop just before serving for brightness

Instructions

Prep the Ingredients:

Cook the gnocchi according to package directions until just tender and drain well Crisp the bacon until golden then drain on paper towels and chop into pieces Cut chicken thighs into bite size chunks and pan sear until browned and cooked through Shred both types of cheddar

Build the Sauce:

In a large skillet over medium heat pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer Add the cream cheese in pieces Stir slowly as it melts so your sauce is smooth Once melted whisk in the ranch seasoning until the mixture is fragrant and completely blended

Add Cheese and Finish the Base:

Turn off the heat and scatter in the shredded aged white cheddar Stir until the cheese fully melts and the sauce becomes velvety Now fold in the cooked chicken and gnocchi gently ensuring every piece gets coated

Assemble the Casserole:

Transfer everything to a nine by thirteen inch baking dish Spread to the edges for even baking Lay provolone cheese slices evenly over the top followed by the remaining shredded cheddar Scatter the bacon pieces over the cheese

Bake and Broil:

Place the baking dish in a three seventyfive degree oven and bake for twenty five to thirty minutes The cheese should be bubbling all around the edges For extra color and flavor slide it under the broiler for up to three minutes watching constantly so it becomes golden but does not burn

Garnish and Serve:

Immediately after removing from the oven sprinkle chopped parsley across the hot surface This adds a cool herbal lift Serve family style and enjoy right away

Pin it

My favorite part is watching the provolone bubble up and turn golden under the broiler The aroma takes me right back to Sunday dinners at home where everyone would race to get that perfect scoop with melty cheese and crispy bacon

Storage Tips

Let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers Store in the refrigerator for up to four days When reheating cover with foil and use the oven or a microwave to gently melt the cheese again If you want to freeze it portion out individual servings so they reheat quickly and stay creamy

Ingredient Substitutions

If you only have chicken breast it works just as well as thighs You can swap white cheddar for mozzarella for a milder flavor For a touch of heat try pepper jack in place of one cup of cheddar If you cannot find ranch powder stir in dried dill chives parsley a pinch of garlic powder and a little salt

Serving Suggestions

This dish is a complete meal but a fresh green salad with tangy vinaigrette or steamed broccoli balances the richness nicely When I serve this to guests I always put out extra chopped herbs and a squeeze of lemon for a zesty touch

Bit of Background

Gnocchi is a classic Italian staple and it is amazing how well it pairs with creamy Americanstyle casseroles Ranch seasoning and bacon bring out all the cozy flavors we crave in comfort food This combination was actually inspired by a favorite pizza order in my college days

Pin it

This casserole brings all the creamy cheesy cozy flavors of the best comfort food Try it once—it just might become a new family favorite

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How can I make this dish creamier?

Use full-fat cream and an extra ounce of cream cheese. Stir well to fully melt the cheeses for a smoother sauce.

→ Can I substitute chicken thighs with breast meat?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used. Cut them into 1-inch pieces and cook thoroughly before adding.

→ What type of gnocchi works best?

Potato gnocchi provide the ideal pillowy texture but you can also use cauliflower or sweet potato gnocchi of your choice.

→ Can this be assembled ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish up until baking, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

→ Is there a way to add vegetables?

You can stir in spinach, steamed broccoli, or peas to the mixture before baking for extra color and nutrition.