CARBONARA-STUFFED GNOCCHI
As much as we adore the classic spaghetti alla carbonara, sometimes it’s fun to play with tradition. These Carbonara-Stuffed Gnocchi are a creative reinterpretation that keeps the soul of the original dish intact while giving it a new texture and personality.
Prep Time 1 hour hr
Cook Time 25 minutes mins
Total Time 1 hour hr 25 minutes mins
Course Italian Pasta
Cuisine Italian
Ingredients
For the Gnocchi
- 2.2 lb (1 kg) potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold)
- 3 cups (370 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- Salt, to taste
For the Filling
- 6 egg yolks
- 1 whole egg
- 5.3 oz (150 g) Pecorino Romano DOP, finely grated
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Topping
- 6 oz (170 g) guanciale (or pancetta), diced
- Extra grated Pecorino Romano and black pepper, for serving
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1 – Make the Gnocchi Dough
Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender. Peel and mash them while still warm.
Place the mashed potatoes on a work surface and add the flour, one egg, and a pinch of salt.
Mix until you have a smooth, dense, and uniform dough.
Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Step 2 – Prepare the Carbonara Filling
In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and the remaining whole egg.
Add the Pecorino Romano and freshly ground black pepper, whisking vigorously until you get a thick, smooth, and creamy mixture.
This will be your rich Carbonara filling.
Step 3 – Shape the Gnocchi
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ½ inch (1 cm) thickness.
Use a glass or a round cutter to cut out discs of dough.
Step 4 – Fill the Gnocchi
Place a small spoonful of the Carbonara mixture in the center of each disc.
Seal carefully with your fingers, forming smooth round gnocchi balls.
Step 5 – Cook the Gnocchi
Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.
Gently drop in the stuffed gnocchi and cook for 3–4 minutes, until they rise to the surface.
Be careful not to overcook — the filling should stay soft and molten inside.
Step 6 – Finish and Serve
Meanwhile, cook the diced guanciale in a skillet until golden and crispy.
Plate the gnocchi, top with crispy guanciale, a generous sprinkle of Pecorino Romano, and freshly ground black pepper.
Serve immediately and enjoy that irresistible creamy center!