Prepare to have your mind (and taste buds) blown, because today we’re elevating a classic Italian favorite into something truly spectacular: Turkey Bacon Crusted Gnocchi Pie! Imagine tender, pillowy gnocchi baked in a rich marinara sauce with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan, all nestled under a crispy, savory crust made of, yes, you guessed it—turkey bacon! This dish is a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.

Why I Love This Recipe

This recipe is pure genius for so many reasons. First off, it takes the humble gnocchi and transforms it into a substantial, satisfying pie. The turkey bacon crust isn’t just a garnish; it adds an incredible layer of salty, smoky crunch that beautifully contrasts with the soft gnocchi and creamy cheese. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a “pie” that’s savory, unique, and incredibly flavorful. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to assemble, making it a perfect weeknight warrior. It’s also a fantastic way to impress guests with minimal effort!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create this show-stopping Turkey Bacon Crusted Gnocchi Pie:

• 1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi
• 6 slices cooked turkey bacon, finely chopped
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 1/4 cups marinara sauce
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp butter (for greasing)
• Optional: chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Swaps and Notes

• Gnocchi: While potato gnocchi is classic, you could experiment with sweet potato or cauliflower gnocchi for a different twist.
• Bacon: If you prefer, regular pork bacon can be used instead of turkey bacon. Just be sure to cook it until crispy and finely chop it.
• Cheese: Feel free to mix up the cheeses! Provolone, Fontina, or even a smoked mozzarella would be delicious additions.
• Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite jarred marinara for convenience, or whip up a batch of homemade if you have the time!
• Herbs: Don’t hesitate to add more fresh or dried herbs to the gnocchi mixture, such as oregano or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.

Steps to Make Your Turkey Bacon Crusted Gnocchi Pie

Let’s get this delicious pie assembled and into the oven!

1. Preheat Oven & Grease Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously grease a 9-inch pie dish or a similar-sized deep baking dish with butter. This prevents sticking and ensures a golden crust.
2. Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions. Gnocchi typically float to the surface when they’re done. Once cooked, drain them well and set them aside to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Pie Base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Add the cooked gnocchi, 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella, all of the grated Parmesan cheese, and half of the finely chopped cooked turkey bacon. Gently stir until all the gnocchi are evenly coated with the egg and cheese mixture.
4. Assemble the Pie: Spread half of your marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of the greased pie dish. Carefully pour the gnocchi mixture over the marinara sauce, spreading it out and pressing down gently with the back of a spoon to create an even layer. Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the gnocchi. Finally, sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, and then scatter the rest of the chopped turkey bacon on top.
5. Bake: Place the pie dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is beautifully golden brown, and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and irresistible.
6. Serve: Let the pie rest for 5-10 minutes after taking it out of the oven. This allows it to set slightly, making it easier to slice into neat wedges. Garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley if you like, and serve hot!

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcook Gnocchi: Cook the gnocchi just until they float. Overcooked gnocchi can become mushy.
• Crispy Bacon: Make sure your turkey bacon is cooked until nicely crispy before chopping it. This ensures that satisfying “crust” texture.
• Grease Generously: Don’t skimp on the butter when greasing the pie dish. It helps create a beautiful golden bottom crust and easy removal.
• Resting Time: The resting period is crucial! It allows the pie to firm up, making for cleaner slices.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Turkey Bacon Crusted Gnocchi Pie is a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides:

• A fresh, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette.
• Warm crusty bread for soaking up any extra sauce.
• For a beverage, a robust red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese would be an excellent match, or a refreshing glass of unsweetened iced tea.

Storage and Leftover Tips

Leftover Gnocchi Pie can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, the best method is to warm individual slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and the top is slightly re-crisped. You can also use a microwave, but the crust won’t be as crispy.

More Recipes You Will Love

If you loved this comforting gnocchi pie, here are some other recipes from Chef Maniac that I’m sure you’ll enjoy:

• For another easy weeknight meal with Italian flair, check out my Easy Cheesy Chicken Sliders with Marinara Garlic Butter.
• If you appreciate classic comfort, you can’t go wrong with my Classic Spaghetti Recipe with Homemade Sauce.
• Looking for another cheesy, dippable delight? Try How I Turned a Classic Sandwich into the Ultimate Cheesy Hot Dip.
• For another baked pasta favorite, my This Instant Pot Lasagna Is My Favorite Way to Make Comfort Food Fast is a game-changer.
• And if you’re a fan of comforting bakes, These Chicken Enchiladas Are My Go-To For Cozy Crowd-Pleasing Dinners are always a hit.

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Final Thoughts

This Turkey Bacon Crusted Gnocchi Pie is more than just a meal; it’s an experience! It’s rich, cheesy, savory, and has that perfect crispy crunch from the bacon. It’s a fantastic way to impress your family and friends or simply treat yourself to a truly satisfying dish. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out!

What are your favorite gnocchi recipes? Share your thoughts and don’t forget to follow Chef Maniac for more culinary adventures!