Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that has quickly become a favorite in our household – Fried Gnocchi Bites. These little golden nuggets are crispy on the outside and deliciously soft on the inside. Perfect for when you’re craving something comforting but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. This dish is fantastic for entertaining or a cozy night in. Imagine the delight of your family or guests when you bring out these piping hot treats! Trust me, they’re going to be a hit.
Fried Gnocchi Bites pair wonderfully with a fresh side salad, perhaps something with a bit of tanginess like an arugula and cherry tomato mix, drizzled with a balsamic glaze. They also go great with a simple marinara or pesto dipping sauce. For a more indulgent meal, serve them alongside a creamy soup, such as tomato bisque or potato leek. A crisp glass of white wine or a light beer can round out the meal splendidly.
Fried Gnocchi Bites
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
1 pound of potato gnocchi, store-bought or homemade
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil, chopped (optional)
Marinara or pesto sauce for dipping (optional)
Directions
1. Start by cooking the gnocchi according to the package instructions. Typically, you’ll want to boil them until they float to the surface, which should take just a few minutes. Drain them well.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet in a single layer. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding.
3. Let the gnocchi cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown and crispy. Then, using a spatula, gently turn them so they cook evenly on all sides. This should take another 3-4 minutes.
4. Once all the gnocchi are crispy, transfer them to a bowl and immediately toss with grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Give them a good stir to ensure they’re evenly coated.
5. If using, sprinkle the chopped fresh basil over the top for a pop of color and added flavor.
6. Serve the gnocchi bites hot with your favorite marinara or pesto sauce for dipping. Enjoy!
Variations & Tips
There are so many ways to customize these Fried Gnocchi Bites to suit your taste. You could add a sprinkling of garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the gnocchi before frying for an extra layer of flavor. If you’re feeling indulgent, add some crumbled bacon or pancetta to the mix. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free gnocchi. And if you prefer a vegan option, simply skip the Parmesan or replace it with a dairy-free alternative. Happy experimenting!
