Crispy Pan Fried Gnocchi with Brown Butter Recipe

If you’re ready to turn humble gnocchi into something utterly crave-worthy, this Crispy Pan Fried Gnocchi with Brown Butter will absolutely steal your heart. Imagine golden, pillowy gnocchi tossed with loads of fragrant brown butter and crispy sage—each bite is crunchy, buttery, and deeply comforting.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is proof that the simplest ingredients can create the most crowd-pleasing comfort food. Every ingredient here plays a starring role, from ensuring the perfect gnocchi texture to building irresistible flavors you’ll keep coming back for.

• Homemade Potato Gnocchi: Fluffy, tender gnocchi are the base—use homemade for the dreamiest texture, but good-quality store-bought works in a pinch!
• Olive Oil: Give the gnocchi their golden crunch and just the right amount of savory flavor.
• Butter (cubed): Essential for achieving ultra-nutty brown butter, which soaks into every craggy bite.
• Fresh Sage Leaves: These get crispy in the brown butter, turning into herby, edible confetti for every plate.

Variations

The beauty of Crispy Pan Fried Gnocchi with Brown Butter is how easy it is to tailor. Feel free to riff on this recipe to suit what’s in your fridge, any dietary needs, or simply your mood that day!

• Gluten-Free Gnocchi: Swap in your favorite store-bought or homemade gluten-free gnocchi for a naturally gluten-free feast.
• Herb Swap: Don’t have sage? Try thyme, rosemary, or even basil for a completely new flavor burst.
• Add Veg: Toss in baby spinach, blistered cherry tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms during the last minute of frying for a veggie-packed spin.
• Citrus Upgrade: Finish with lemon zest or a squeeze of juice for brightness that cuts through the richness.

How to Make Crispy Pan Fried Gnocchi with Brown Butter

Step 1: Boil the Gnocchi

Start by boiling your gnocchi in well-salted water. Make sure the water’s at a lively boil, and cook the gnocchi in batches if you’re serving a crowd—this keeps each batch from sticking. As soon as the gnocchi float to the surface, let them cook for just 30 seconds more for perfect tenderness.

Step 2: Drain and Prep for Frying

Once your gnocchi are cooked, lift them out gently with a spider strainer or slotted spoon and arrange on a tray. This extra step lets any moisture evaporate (super key for crispiness!) while you get your frying set up.

Step 3: Crisp Up the Gnocchi

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil and a small knob of butter in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the gnocchi in a single layer, turning every now and then, until golden and irresistibly crisp on all sides—about 5–6 minutes. Adjust the heat if they’re browning too fast, so each piece gets its moment to shine.

Step 4: Make the Brown Butter & Sage

While your gnocchi are frying, melt the cubed butter in a separate pan over medium heat. Swirl the pan gently so it cooks evenly—the butter will sizzle, then bubble headily. As soon as you see those toasty brown flecks, add your sage leaves and let them crisp as the butter foams. When everything’s golden (not black!), remove from heat for that classic brown butter magic.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Spoon the bubbling brown butter and crispy sage all over your pan fried gnocchi. Don’t be shy—those flavors deserve to coat every bite. Finish with a snowy grating of parmesan and fresh lemon zest, then serve straight away, preferably with a big smile.

How to Serve Crispy Pan Fried Gnocchi with Brown Butter

Garnishes

Finish your Crispy Pan Fried Gnocchi with Brown Butter with a billowy tangle of freshly grated parmesan and perhaps a sprinkle of lemon zest. For a little sparkle, a pinch of flaky sea salt and some extra fried sage will make every bite shine.

Side Dishes

This dish loves a simple green salad tossed with lemony vinaigrette or garlic sautéed spinach for contrast. If you’re really going all out, crusty bread and a glass of white wine turn gnocchi night into an Italian-inspired celebration.

Creative Ways to Present

For a bit of drama, serve the gnocchi family-style on a warm platter and let everyone dig in. Or try nesting a poached egg on top for a rich brunch, or piling the crispy gnocchi atop a bed of whipped ricotta for dinner-party wow factor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Have leftovers? Lucky you! Let any extra Crispy Pan Fried Gnocchi with Brown Butter cool, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They’re still delicious, though the exterior may soften a bit.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked gnocchi (before frying) in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Save the pan frying and brown butter for just before serving for best results!

Reheating

To regain that signature crisp, reheat leftover gnocchi in a hot, nonstick skillet with a touch of butter or oil. Warm until sizzling and golden anew—microwaving works in a pinch, but the texture won’t be quite the same.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about the way Crispy Pan Fried Gnocchi with Brown Butter transforms a few pantry staples into a cozy, sophisticated meal. I hope you’ll gather your ingredients, put on some music, and treat yourself to this soul-warming dish soon. Let me know how it turns out—you might just have a new favorite for weeknights and celebrations alike!

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