Name: Garlic Butter Parmesan Fried Gnocchi Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided; 500 grams (1 pound) gnocchi; ½ teaspoon fine sea salt; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 45 grams (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese, divided; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

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Introduction

Garlic Butter Parmesan Fried Gnocchi is a simple yet indulgent dish where soft potato gnocchi get pan-fried to a crispy golden crust, then coated in a flavorful garlic butter sauce and sprinkled with nutty Parmesan and fresh parsley. It’s a quick, comforting recipe perfect for a satisfying snack or a tasty side.

A close-up view of a pan filled with cooked gnocchi pieces that are golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges, mixed with small green herb bits and specks of black pepper evenly spread throughout. A wooden spoon is resting inside the pan among the gnocchi, lifting some pieces up. The gnocchi have a soft yet firm texture with a toasted, crunchy outside. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
500 grams (1 pound) gnocchi
½ teaspoon fine sea salt
3 cloves garlic, minced
45 grams (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Melt 3 tablespoons of the unsalted butter in a medium-sized skillet over medium-high heat. This will create the rich base for frying the gnocchi.
Step 2: Add the gnocchi to the skillet, spreading them out evenly. Sprinkle with sea salt and fry for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until they develop a golden, crispy crust on all sides.
Step 3: In the last 30 seconds of cooking, stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter, minced garlic, and half of the grated Parmesan. Keep stirring constantly so the butter melts into a garlicky sauce and the cheese coats the gnocchi.
Step 4: Remove from heat and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley and the remaining Parmesan over the gnocchi. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of black pepper before serving.
Use freshly grated Parmesan Reggiano for the best melt and nutty flavor.
Substitute plant-based butter and vegan cheese to make this dish vegan-friendly.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a little butter over medium-low heat to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the gnocchi soggy. Freezing is possible but may affect texture; if freezing, flash freeze on a tray before transferring to a container and consume within one month.

How to Serve

The image shows a closeup of pan-fried gnocchi in a white pan. The gnocchi pieces are golden brown with crispy, slightly charred spots. They are coated with black pepper flakes and small green herb bits scattered around. A wooden spatula rests on the gnocchi, slightly lifting some pieces. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just thaw frozen gnocchi completely and pat dry before frying to ensure they crisp up nicely instead of steaming.

What type of Parmesan cheese is best?

Freshly grated Parmesan Reggiano is ideal for its rich flavor and melting properties, though pre-grated options can work in a pinch.