A comforting and flavorful gnocchi dish with a creamy cheese sauce, crispy bacon, and tender leeks.
Cook the gnocchi in a large pot of boiling water according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Ensure the water is well-salted to enhance the flavor of the gnocchi.
In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
Cook the bacon slowly to render out the fat and achieve a crispy texture.
Add the sliced leeks to the skillet and sauté in the bacon fat until softened. Remove from heat.
Stir frequently to prevent the leeks from browning too much.
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and boils.
Use a whisk to ensure the sauce is smooth and free of lumps.
Stir in the grated cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the cheese gradually to prevent clumping.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked gnocchi, sautéed leeks, crispy bacon, and cheese sauce. Gently fold in the spinach.
Mix gently to avoid breaking the gnocchi.
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
For a golden crust, broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Serve the gnocchi bake warm, garnished with extra grated cheese if desired.
Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.