18 Crispy Fried Gnocchi Recipes with a Twist

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Written By Lorraine Koller

DIY expert, architect, 20+ years in crafting, home improvement, and interior design.

Are you a fan of crispy, golden-brown gnocchi? Do you love trying new and exciting flavors? Look no further! In this article, we’re sharing 18 mouth-watering crispy fried gnocchi recipes that will take your taste buds on a wild ride. From classic combinations like garlic butter and parmesan to bold twists like spicy sausage and peppers, there’s something for everyone.

Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or rich and indulgent, our collection of recipes is sure to satisfy your cravings. And the best part? These crispy fried gnocchi are surprisingly easy to make at home. Just grab some store-bought or homemade gnocchi, your favorite seasonings, and get ready to fry up a storm.

So, which recipe will you try first? Scroll down to discover our top 18 picks for crispy fried gnocchi with a twist!

Garlic Butter Fried Gnocchi with Parmesan

Elevate your pasta game with this simple yet indulgent recipe that combines the creaminess of parmesan with the richness of garlic butter. Perfect as a main course or as a side dish.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound gnocchi
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface.
2. In a separate pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and stir until melted.
4. Remove gnocchi from water and add them to the butter mixture. Toss gently to coat.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and toss again to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Crispy Fried Gnocchi with Spicy Tomato Sauce

A twist on traditional gnocchi, this recipe adds a satisfying crunch from the frying process and a spicy kick from the tomato sauce. Perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 package of store-bought or homemade gnocchi
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2 cups of canned crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Carefully add the gnocchi to the oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
3. Fry the gnocchi for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine crushed tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Serve the fried gnocchi with the spicy tomato sauce and garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Pan-Fried Gnocchi with Mushrooms and Sage

This classic Italian dish combines the comfort of gnocchi with the earthy flavors of sautéed mushrooms and fragrant sage. A perfect fall or winter evening meal that’s easy to prepare.

Ingredients:

– 1 package gnocchi (about 12 oz)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add butter, chopped sage, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add cooked gnocchi to the skillet and toss with mushroom mixture to coat.
6. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Fried Gnocchi with Lemon and Herb Drizzle

Gnocchi are a staple of Italian cuisine, but they don’t have to be served plain. By frying them and pairing them with a tangy lemon and herb drizzle, you can elevate this classic dish into something truly special.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound gnocchi
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Fry the gnocchi in batches until they’re golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
3. Drain the fried gnocchi on paper towels.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
5. Toss the fried gnocchi with the lemon and herb drizzle until well coated.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Golden Fried Gnocchi with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes

Discover the perfect combination of crispy, golden gnocchi, rich pesto sauce, and sweet cherry tomatoes. This easy-to-make dish is sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients:

– 1 package gnocchi
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together flour and Parmesan cheese.
3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add cooked gnocchi and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes per side.
5. In a small bowl, combine pesto sauce and cherry tomatoes.
6. Serve the fried gnocchi with the pesto-cherry tomato mixture spooned over the top.

Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes

Fried Gnocchi with Crispy Bacon and Peas

A classic Italian combination gets a crispy twist with this recipe for fried gnocchi tossed with crispy bacon, sweet peas, and a hint of garlic. Perfect as a main course or side dish.

Ingredients:

– 1 package gnocchi
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the olive oil and minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and toss with the garlic oil mixture until coated.
5. Stir in the peas and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until they’re tender.
6. Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and toss everything together. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Fried Gnocchi with Spinach and Ricotta

This recipe combines the classic combination of gnocchi, spinach, and ricotta cheese with a crispy fried twist. The result is a deliciously indulgent side dish or main course that’s sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 1 package gnocchi
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or skillet to 350°F.
2. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface. Drain and set aside.
3. In a separate pan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes. Set aside.
4. In a bowl, combine the cooked gnocchi, wilted spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and flour. Mix well to combine.
5. Using a spoon or small scoop, drop the mixture into the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes

Fried Gnocchi with Roasted Garlic and Rosemary

Transform your gnocchi into a crispy, flavorful treat by frying them in olive oil and infusing them with the rich flavors of roasted garlic and rosemary. This Italian-inspired appetizer or side dish is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup cooked gnocchi
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the garlic cloves with 1 tablespoon olive oil and season with salt.
3. Roast the garlic in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Remove the gnocchi from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. Sprinkle the roasted garlic and chopped rosemary over the fried gnocchi and season with salt to taste.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Fried Gnocchi with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Olives

Fried Gnocchi with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Olives: A Mediterranean Twist on a Classic Pasta Dish

This recipe combines the comfort of gnocchi with the bold flavors of the Mediterranean. Crispy fried gnocchi are tossed with sun-dried tomatoes, briny olives, and a sprinkle of parsley for a delicious and easy-to-make main course or side dish.

Ingredients:
– 1 package potato gnocchi
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry cooked gnocchi in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
3. In a separate pan, sauté minced garlic and chopped parsley until fragrant.
4. Combine fried gnocchi with garlic-parsley mixture, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Fried Gnocchi with Caramelized Onions and Thyme

Elevate your pasta game with this crispy, flavorful dish that combines the comforting warmth of caramelized onions with the earthy essence of thyme.

Ingredients:

– 1 package store-bought or homemade gnocchi
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 30-40 minutes or until caramelized.
3. Meanwhile, prepare the gnocchi according to package instructions or pan-fry them in hot oil until crispy.
4. In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the thyme and stir to combine.
5. Combine the cooked gnocchi with the caramelized onions and thyme mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Fried Gnocchi with Spicy Sausage and Peppers

A hearty and flavorful twist on traditional gnocchi, this recipe combines crispy fried dumplings with spicy sausage and sweet peppers. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a casual get-together.

Ingredients:

– 1 package of gnocchi
– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the peppers and onion to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gnocchi according to package instructions.
5. Drain the gnocchi and add them to the skillet with the sausage and pepper mixture. Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Fried Gnocchi with Creamy Gorgonzola Sauce

Fried Gnocchi with Creamy Gorgonzola Sauce: A rich and indulgent twist on traditional gnocchi, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

– 1 package of fresh gnocchi (about 1 pound)
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1/2 cup grated gorgonzola cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the grated gorgonzola cheese and stir until smooth.
4. Gradually add the heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Fry the cooked gnocchi in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
6. Serve the fried gnocchi with the creamy gorgonzola sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme leaves.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Fried Gnocchi with Zucchini and Basil

This recipe combines the comforting warmth of fried gnocchi with the freshness of zucchini and basil, perfect for a quick and easy summer dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 package store-bought or homemade gnocchi
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced into thin rounds
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the zucchini slices and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until tender and lightly browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, or until lightly toasted.
4. Add the gnocchi to the skillet in batches, cooking for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
5. Serve the fried gnocchi with zucchini, garlic, salt, and pepper. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes

Fried Gnocchi with Pancetta and Peas

Fried Gnocchi with Pancetta and Peas Recipe

Summary: Crispy fried gnocchi tossed with crispy pancetta, sweet peas, and a hint of garlic is a match made in heaven. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:
– 1 package store-bought or homemade gnocchi
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 2 cups fresh or frozen peas
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface.
2. While the gnocchi is cooking, heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the diced pancetta and cook until crispy, stirring occasionally. Remove from the pan with a slotted spoon and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add the cooked peas and minced garlic. Cook for about 2 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
5. Once the gnocchi is cooked, remove it from the pot with a slotted spoon and add it to the skillet with the pancetta and peas. Toss everything together to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Fried Gnocchi with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce

Elevate your pasta game with this addictive combination of crispy fried gnocchi and creamy roasted red pepper sauce. Perfect as a main course or appetizer, this dish is sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 1 package gnocchi
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss gnocchi with flour, egg, and salt.
3. Fry gnocchi in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
4. Roast red peppers in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until charred. Peel off skin and chop into small pieces.
5. In a blender, combine roasted peppers, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Blend until smooth.
6. Serve fried gnocchi with roasted red pepper sauce and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Fried Gnocchi with Truffle Oil and Parmesan

This recipe elevates a classic Italian dish by adding the deep flavor of truffle oil and the salty tang of Parmesan. Crispy fried gnocchi make for a satisfying side or main course.

Ingredients:

– 1 package store-bought or homemade gnocchi
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon truffle oil
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface.
2. Drain the gnocchi and place them on a clean kitchen towel to dry.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour and Parmesan cheese.
4. Dredge the cooled gnocchi in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the gnocchi in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
7. Remove the fried gnocchi from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. Drizzle with truffle oil and season with salt to taste.

Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes

Fried Gnocchi with Asparagus and Lemon Zest

Fried Gnocchi with Asparagus and Lemon Zest Recipe

This recipe combines the comforting warmth of crispy fried gnocchi with the bright, citrusy flavor of lemon zest and the tender sweetness of asparagus. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 package of fresh gnocchi
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a separate pan, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Fry the cooked gnocchi in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
4. Remove the fried gnocchi from the oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, garlic, and lemon zest.
5. Serve the fried gnocchi with the asparagus and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Fried Gnocchi with Crispy Prosciutto and Arugula

Fried Gnocchi with Crispy Prosciutto and Arugula: A Delicious Twist on Classic Pasta

This recipe takes the humble potato gnocchi to new heights by adding crispy prosciutto and peppery arugula for a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 package of potato gnocchi
– 6 slices of prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 2 cups of arugula leaves
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface.
2. While the gnocchi is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the prosciutto and cook until crispy, stirring occasionally (about 5 minutes).
3. Remove the gnocchi from the pot with a slotted spoon and add them to the skillet with the prosciutto.
4. Toss the gnocchi with the crispy prosciutto for about 2 minutes, until they’re well coated.
5. Add the arugula leaves to the skillet and toss everything together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, top with grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes

Summary

Fancy up your pasta game with these 18 crispy fried gnocchi recipes that add a twist to the classic dish. From garlic butter and parmesan to spicy sausage and peppers, there’s something for everyone in this collection of creative and delicious recipes. Whether you’re in the mood for something rich and savory or light and refreshing, these fried gnocchi variations are sure to impress.

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