Name: Crispy Pan Fried Gnocchi Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 500 g (2 cups) gnocchi; 30 g (1 oz) unsalted butter; 30 ml (1 fl oz) olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 60 g (2 1/8 oz) Grana Padano or Parmesan, finely grated; 1 teaspoon crushed chili flakes (optional); Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

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Crispy pan-fried gnocchi is a quick and comforting dish that transforms pillowy potato dumplings into golden bites with a crunchy exterior and tender inside. Tossed with garlic, butter, cheese, and a sprinkle of chili flakes, it’s a simple yet satisfying recipe that makes the perfect side dish or light main.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is all about texture—crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside. It’s ready in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With just a handful of ingredients, you get maximum flavor and comfort in every bite. It pairs beautifully with salads, roasted vegetables, or as a base for heartier sauces.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

500 g (2 cups) gnocchi
30 g (1 oz) unsalted butter
30 ml (1 fl oz) olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
60 g (2 1/8 oz) Grana Padano or Parmesan, finely grated
1 teaspoon crushed chili flakes (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions

Pre-Boiling (optional but recommended for softer centers)

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, about 2–3 minutes. Drain well.

Pan-Frying

Preheat a large pan over medium-high heat.
Melt the butter and olive oil in the pan. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Add the gnocchi in a single layer (avoid overcrowding) and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
Remove from heat and top with grated cheese, chili flakes (if using), and fresh parsley.
Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Toss with fresh spinach or arugula just before serving for a fresh touch.
Use Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan for a sharper taste.
Drizzle with truffle oil for a gourmet twist.
Serve with marinara, pesto, or creamy Alfredo sauce for a heartier meal.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a drizzle of oil to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the gnocchi soft and chewy instead of crispy.

FAQs

Do I need to boil the gnocchi before pan-frying?

Boiling first ensures a fluffy interior, but you can pan-fry raw packaged gnocchi directly for extra crispiness.

Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes, fresh or packaged gnocchi both work well for this recipe.

How do I prevent gnocchi from sticking to the pan?

Make sure the pan is hot before adding the gnocchi and don’t overcrowd them.

Can I make this dish without butter?

Yes, use only olive oil for a lighter version, or replace butter with ghee for richness.

What cheese works best?

Grana Padano or Parmesan add a salty, nutty flavor, but Pecorino Romano is another great option.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, sautéed zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes pair beautifully with crispy gnocchi.

How do I know when the gnocchi is crispy enough?

They should be golden brown on all sides with a slightly firm exterior.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes, increase the chili flakes or drizzle with chili oil for extra heat.

Is gnocchi gluten-free?

Traditional gnocchi is made with wheat flour, but gluten-free versions are available at most stores.

Can I freeze cooked gnocchi?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze boiled (not pan-fried) gnocchi. Cook straight from frozen before pan-frying.

Conclusion

Crispy pan-fried gnocchi is a quick, versatile, and flavorful dish that takes simple ingredients and turns them into something special. With its crunchy exterior and soft center, it’s perfect as a side, appetizer, or main course. Serve it plain with cheese and herbs, or dress it up with sauces and toppings for a heartier meal.