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Crispy Pan-Fried Gnocchi Recipe with Brown Butter Sage and Parmesan Made Easy

crispy pan-fried gnocchi - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for crispy pan-fried gnocchi with nutty brown butter, fresh sage, and Parmesan cheese, perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 grams) potato gnocchi, store-bought or homemade
  • 4 tablespoons (about 56 grams) unsalted butter
  • About 12 fresh sage leaves
  • ½ cup (50 grams) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: lemon zest, for brightness
  • Optional: crushed red pepper flakes, for a gentle kick

Instructions

  1. Prepare the gnocchi: If using store-bought gnocchi, check package instructions. Pat dry gently with paper towels to remove excess moisture (about 5 minutes).
  2. Heat the skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Warm for 1-2 minutes until shimmering but not smoking.
  3. Add gnocchi in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until bottoms are golden and crisp. Flip gently and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes until tender inside and crispy outside.
  4. In a separate small pan, melt butter over medium heat. Swirl occasionally as butter foams and turns golden brown, releasing a nutty aroma. Add sage leaves and cook for 1-2 minutes until crisp and fragrant.
  5. Transfer crispy gnocchi to the pan with browned butter and sage. Toss gently to coat and let flavors mingle for a minute. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  6. Remove from heat and sprinkle grated Parmesan over the gnocchi. Add lemon zest and crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
  7. Serve immediately, garnished with extra sage leaves or Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Pat gnocchi dry to ensure crispiness. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming. Use moderate heat to brown butter carefully and prevent burning. Season after frying to keep gnocchi crisp. If gnocchi sticks, lower heat and add a bit more olive oil. Fresh sage is preferred over dried for best flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: gnocchi, pan-fried gnocchi, brown butter, sage, Parmesan, crispy gnocchi, quick dinner, easy recipe, vegetarian, comfort food