Gnocchi are delicious pillow-like dumplings made from potato, flour, egg, and sometimes cheese. They originate from Italian cuisine and can be served as a main course, appetizer, or side dish. Gnocchi are often paired with rich and hearty sauces but they can also be fried or baked for a snack. In this article, I will instruct you how to cook gnocchi in 3 different ways.
1. How To Cook Gnocchi in Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 package (16 oz) frozen gnocchi
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 jar (24 oz) pasta sauce
- 1/4 cup water
- Fresh basil and parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the frozen gnocchi and spread into an even layer. Cover and cook for 5 minutes, until the gnocchi are thawed and have absorbed most of the oil.
Pour the pasta sauce and 1/4 cup water over the gnocchi. Gently stir to coat the gnocchi evenly with the sauce.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi are heated through and have absorbed most of the sauce. Add a splash more water if the sauce starts to stick.
Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and grated parmesan cheese if desired.
The gnocchi will be soft and pillowy with a tender bite. The sauce adds tons of flavor as the gnocchi simmer. Frozen gnocchi cuts down on prep time while still delivering a satisfying homemade taste.
2. How To Fry Gnocchi
Ingredients
- 1 package (16 oz) refrigerated or frozen gnocchi
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the gnocchi in a single layer and cook undisturbed for 2 minutes until the bottom sides are golden brown. Flip and brown the other sides, about 2 more minutes.
Once all sides are crisp and browned, remove the fried gnocchi to a paper towel lined plate. Immediately season with salt.
Transfer the gnocchi to a serving platter. Sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Serve hot.
Frying really brings out gnocchi’s fluffy texture. The outside gets ultra crispy while the inside stays moist and tender. Perfectly fried gnocchi is the ultimate finger food to serve at parties or game day get-togethers!
3. How To Cook Gnocchi in Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 1 package (16 oz) refrigerated or frozen gnocchi
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
Instructions
Toss the gnocchi with olive oil in a bowl until evenly coated.
Air fry at 400°F for 6-8 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the gnocchi are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Transfer gnocchi to a bowl and immediately toss with parmesan cheese and parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve the crispy gnocchi hot and enjoy!
The air fryer uses rapid hot air to create a crispy texture without the added calories from deep frying. It brings out the delicious cheesiness of the parmesan too. Air fried gnocchi make a crunchy, irresistible appetizer or side in record time.
With just a few ingredients, you can quickly prepare gnocchi by any cooking method for a tasty meal. From simmering in sauce to frying for an irresistible crunch, gnocchi is the ultimate fast weeknight dinner or impressive appetizer.
