Easy Pan Fried Gnocchi (20-Minute One Skillet Dinner)

This simple and incredibly delicious Easy Pan Fried Gnocchi recipe combines pillowy soft gnocchi with sweet cherry tomatoes, savory garlic, salty parmesan cheese, and fresh basil.

About the Recipe

If you've never had gnocchi, they are little potato dumplings that originated in Italy. You can make gnocchi on your own at home or buy from the grocery store in the pasta aisle.

You can quickly elevate store-bought gnocchi with this mouthwatering combination of flavors. It's a perfect way to serve a satisfying meal when time is limited or when you would rather spend your time socializing than in the kitchen cooking. The homemade tomato sauce is the perfect pairing!

This is a dish that the whole family can enjoy. The crispy gnocchi, combined with the burst of sweetness from cherry tomatoes, appeals to both adults and children alike.

If you are looking for more main dish pasta recipes, check out our: Copycat Carbone Spicy Rigatoni, 10 Ingredient Spaghetti Arrabiata or Baked Italian Mac and Cheese.

Jump to:

• About the Recipe
• Why You Will Love This Recipe
• Ingredients
• Directions
• Expert Tips and Tricks
• Kitchen Equipment
• Recipe Substitutions/Variations
• What To Serve With
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Recipe Storage and Reheating
• Other Recipes to Try
• Easy Pan Fried Gnocchi

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Simple - This is a simple yet flavorful dish that can be whipped up in a matter of minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings. This is a perfect recipe for beginner cooks. The steps are straightforward, and the result is a flavorful and impressive dish. It's easy enough for an easy midweek meal or fancy enough for a special dinner.

Customizable - You can easily make this recipe your own by adding your favorite vegetables, herbs or proteins. The good thing about gnocchi is that it pairs so well with various ingredients, so you have the option to get creative with it!

Crispy - Pan frying the gnocchi gives it a satisfying slight crunch on the outside while keeping it soft and pillowy on the inside. This cooking method enhances the flavor of the gnocchi, making each bite a perfect combination of textures.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you will need for these crispy pan fried gnocchi: 

• Olive oil - Always use good quality olive oil.
• Gnocchi - I used regular sized gnocchi, but you can use mini gnocchi as well. You can also use fresh gnocchi or dried gnocchi.
• Butter
• Tomatoes
• Garlic
• Salt & black pepper
• Parmesan
• Basil - Use fresh basil for the best flavor. You can also use fresh parsley for topping.

Directions

Let's make this comfort food recipe together! 

Recipe Video

Step 1: In a large skillet or large frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the gnocchi in a single layer and sauté for 5 minutes per side, or until golden brown.

Step 2: Add the butter and cherry tomatoes to the skillet and sauté for 4-5 minutes, or until well wilted.

Step 3: Add the garlic, salt and pepper. Stir well and continue to sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant. 

Step 4: Top with parmesan cheese and basil. Serve and enjoy!

Expert Tips and Tricks

Here are some expert tips to make this delicious potato gnocchi: 

Let the gnocchi fry undisturbed - Once you place the gnocchi in the skillet, let them fry undisturbed for a few minutes on each side. This allows a crispy crust to form. Resist the temptation to constantly stir or flip them.

Serve immediately - Gnocchi is best enjoyed right after cooking when they're still hot and have crispy edges. Serve them immediately to fully experience their deliciousness.

Kitchen Equipment

Here is some kitchen equipment you will need for this easy gnocchi recipe. You can find all of these products on Amazon.

Large Pan - You'll want a high quality large skillet with enough room to sauté the gnocchi without overcrowding.

Pasta Bowls - I love these pasta bowls. They're perfect for any pasta dish and so beautiful!

Recipe Substitutions/Variations

Here are some common recipe substitutions and variations for this pan fried gnocchi recipe:

Make it Spicy - Add some spice to this dish with red pepper flakes for a delicious kick.

Pasta Substitution - You can also make this recipe with any other dry pasta that you have on hand. You might even try using cauliflower gnocchi for a similar flavor and texture to potato gnocchi. You can also use sweet potato gnocchi in this recipe!

Additions - Try adding bell peppers, zucchini, baby spinach, sauteéd mushrooms, cooked chicken, shrimp, or bacon.

What To Serve With

Here are some recipes to serve alongside this delicious gnocchi:

Simple Lupini Beans - These mild, slightly nutty and nutrient rich beans are flavored with garlic and cooked in chicken broth until deliciously thickened. Top these lupini beans with fresh herbs and you have a perfect and healthy side!

Easy Sautéed Whole Garlic Mushrooms - Easy sautéed whole garlic mushrooms are one of my favorite holiday side dishes. This easy side dish is healthy, easy, and ready in under 30 minutes.

Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts - This easy Maple Bacon Brussels sprouts recipe is the perfect side dish for any meal! With just a few ingredients, this side dish is packed with flavor that the whole family will love. And the best part - it's done in just 35 minutes!

Frequently Asked Questions

Recipe Storage and Reheating

Here are storage and reheating instructions for this delicious meal.

Refrigerator Storage: Store in an airtight container and eat leftovers within 4-5 days.

Freezer Storage: Freeze in a freezer-safe, airtight container and keep for up to 3 months. When you're ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator and reheat as instructed below.

Reheating Instructions: The best way to reheat this recipe is to heat in a skillet with a little olive oil over low heat until warm.

Other Recipes to Try