If you have a craving for something deliciously comforting yet incredibly quick to whip up, then this 20 Minute Pan Fried Gnocchi might just become your new best friend. Not only does it promise a crispy, golden bite with each forkful, but it also combines rich buttery flavors with aromatic garlic and zesty lemon. All in under half an hour!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: You can have a full, delightful meal ready in just 20 minutes—ideal for busy weeknights!
- Crisp Perfection: Achieve restaurant-quality, crispy gnocchi right in your own kitchen.
- Flavor Harmony: The combination of butter, garlic, and lemon zest creates a delectable balance that’s hard to resist.
- Customizable: Adapt this dish with your favorite spices or add-ins for a personal touch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for a simple list of ingredients that are essential for creating the perfect 20 Minute Pan Fried Gnocchi. Each component plays a pivotal role in crafting the ultimate flavor and texture that will have you coming back for seconds.
- 1 lb gnocchi, shelf stable package: This is the star of the show, and its starchy composition allows it to crisp up beautifully.
- 5-6 T butter, separated: The richness from the butter is what gives this dish its creamy depth.
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic infuses the gnocchi with a fragrant aroma that’s utterly irresistible.
- 1 tsp lemon zest: Adds a fresh, citrusy zing that brightens the entire dish.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: This blend brings a hint of herbal earthiness.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: These add a touch of heat to spice things up.
- ½ tsp cracked pepper: For a subtle kick and enhanced flavor.
- ¼ – ½ tsp sea salt: Balances and enhances the overall taste.
- 1/4 c parmesan, more for serving: Provides a nutty, umami taste that complements the gnocchi perfectly.
- Chopped parsley, for serving, optional: A fresh garnish that adds color and hints of freshness.
Variations
One of the best things about this 20 Minute Pan Fried Gnocchi is that it’s incredibly easy to make your own. Whether you need to adapt it for dietary reasons or just want to try something new, here are a few ideas to spark your creativity.
- Add Veggies: Toss in some spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and color.
- Herb Swap: Try using basil or oregano instead of Italian seasoning for a different herbal flair.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Mix in some mozzarella for an added cheesy pull that takes indulgence to the next level.
How to Make 20 Minute Pan Fried Gnocchi
Step 1: Sautéing the Aromatics
Begin by melting 3 tablespoons of butter in a 10-inch skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute, stirring constantly to prevent it from burning. This step releases the garlic’s full flavor into the butter, forming the base of your dish.
Step 2: Crisping the Gnocchi
Add the gnocchi directly to the pan. Allow it to fry for about 12–15 minutes. Don’t forget to stir every 2–3 minutes. This ensures it becomes golden brown and delightfully crispy on all sides without sticking or burning. If needed, adjust the heat to prevent browning too quickly.
Step 3: Finishing Touches
Once the gnocchi is beautifully crisped, reduce the heat to low. Add in the remaining butter along with the Italian seasoning, lemon zest, and cracked pepper. Stir to coat the gnocchi in this heavenly mixture. Remove from the heat and sprinkle with parmesan, allowing it to gently melt into the gnocchi.
Pro Tips for Making 20 Minute Pan Fried Gnocchi
- Even Crispiness: Use a 10-inch skillet to ensure the gnocchi can spread out and cook evenly for that perfect crispiness.
- Watch the Heat: If the gnocchi cooks too quickly, lower your heat—it should cook through evenly without burning.
- Flavor Boost: Add a splash of white wine just before removing from heat for an extra depth of flavor.
How to Serve 20 Minute Pan Fried Gnocchi
Garnishes
Before serving, sprinkle a handful of freshly chopped parsley over the gnocchi. This not only adds a pop of color but also a hint of freshness that complements the dish perfectly. A final sprinkle of parmesan brings it all together with a cheesy finish.
Side Dishes
This gnocchi pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, dressed lightly with a lemon vinaigrette. Alternatively, a side of roasted vegetables makes for a heartier meal while balancing the richness of the gnocchi.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant presentation, serve the gnocchi in individual ramekins or shallow bowls. This keeps portions neat and allows the golden brown gnocchi to stand out, especially when presented with a sprinkle of vibrant parsley and a hint of cheese.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will keep the gnocchi fresh while preserving its delightful flavor.
Freezing
While freezing fully cooked gnocchi is not recommended due to potential changes in texture, you can freeze uncooked gnocchi for future use. Just make sure it’s completely thawed before pan frying.
Reheating
To reheat, place the gnocchi back in a skillet over medium heat and warm through. Add a little butter to help maintain its crispiness while reheating.
FAQs
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Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?
Yes, you can, but make sure they are thawed and dried well before frying to ensure the desired crispy texture.
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Is it necessary to use Parmesan cheese?
Parmesan adds a wonderful umami flavor, but you can substitute with Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano if desired.
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What’s the best way to prevent gnocchi from sticking?
Using enough butter and keeping them spread out in a single layer in your pan will help avoid sticking.
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What type of gnocchi works best?
Shelf stable gnocchi is ideal for this particular recipe as it crisps up nicely without needing to be pre-boiled.
Final Thoughts
With its irresistible crunch and rich buttery flavor, this 20 Minute Pan Fried Gnocchi is not only quick and easy but also deeply satisfying. Whether you’re a gnocchi newcomer or a seasoned pro, this recipe offers a delightful culinary experience that invites you to savor each delicious bite. Try it soon, and enjoy the warmth and comfort of one of my absolute favorite meals!
Print
20 Minute Pan Fried Gnocchi Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 3–4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish, Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Quick Pan Fried Gnocchi recipe transforms simple shelf-stable gnocchi into a crispy, flavorful dish in just 20 minutes. Featuring garlic, lemon zest, and parmesan, it’s perfect as a satisfying side or a light main course, showcasing crispy texture and rich flavors with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Gnocchi
- 1 lb shelf-stable gnocchi
Butter and Seasonings
- 5–6 tablespoons butter, separated
- 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Crushed red pepper flakes (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Cheese and Garnish
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- Chopped parsley (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic: Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a 10-inch skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly until lightly browned and fragrant.
- Add Gnocchi: Place the gnocchi in the skillet in a single layer. Let cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring every 2-3 minutes to ensure even browning. Adjust heat if necessary to prevent burning. Continue until gnocchi are crispy and golden on all sides.
- Finish with Seasonings and Lemon: Turn heat to low, then add the remaining butter, lemon zest, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and sea salt. Toss to coat evenly and melt the butter.
- Incorporate Parmesan and Serve: Remove from heat, stir in ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, and let sit for a few minutes to meld flavors. Serve topped with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Boiling the gnocchi before frying is optional; frying directly saves time and results in a crispy exterior. Boiling briefly before frying can make it softer if preferred.
- Ensure the skillet is large enough for the gnocchi to cook evenly without overcrowding.
- Maintain medium heat for optimal browning without burning.
- Serves 2-3 as a main dish or 4 as a side.
- Use a non-stick or well-seasoned skillet for best results.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 150g)
- Calories: 338 kcal
- Sugar: 0.1 g
- Sodium: 743 mg
- Fat: 17 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 42 mg
