This Toasted Gnocchi with Herb Brown Butter is a quick, indulgent twist on traditional gnocchi that delivers crispy, golden bites packed with flavor.
Rich in plant-based protein and fiber from the potato gnocchi, and infused with heart-healthy fats from olive oil and butter, it’s a satisfying, nutrient-conscious option.
Perfect for weekday dinners or meal prep, it’s both elegant and effortless to prepare.
Toasted Gnocchi with Herb Brown Butter
Equipment
- 1 large nonstick skillet
- 1 small saucepan or skillet
- 1 slotted spoon
- 1 Whisk
- 1 paper towel
Ingredients
For the Gnocchi:
- 16 ounces potato gnocchi mini preferred
- 2 –3 tablespoons olive oil
- Finely grated parmesan cheese for serving
- Fresh herbs basil, rosemary, thyme, chives, oregano, for garnish
For the Herb Brown Butter:
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh basil
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh chives
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
- 1 garlic clove minced
Instructions
- Prepare Gnocchi for Cooking: Start by cooking the potato gnocchi according to the package directions. To ensure they remain slightly firm and hold their shape during toasting, reduce the cooking time by about one minute. Typically, this means boiling them for only 2 minutes until they just float to the surface. Drain the gnocchi immediately in a colander and drizzle lightly with olive oil. Toss gently to coat each piece and prevent sticking.
- Heat Skillet for Toasting: Place a large nonstick skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Allow the oil to heat until it shimmers but does not smoke. Heating the pan properly is key to achieving a perfectly golden, crispy exterior on the gnocchi.
- Toast Gnocchi Until Golden: Working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding, carefully add the gnocchi to the hot skillet in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes, allowing a golden crust to form on the bottom. Flip each piece using a spatula or slotted spoon, and toast the other side until evenly browned and crisp. Once toasted, remove the gnocchi from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Prepare Herb Brown Butter: While the gnocchi is toasting, begin the herb brown butter. In a small saucepan or skillet, melt 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. As the butter melts, it will begin to foam and sizzle. Keep whisking continuously to prevent burning. After 2–3 minutes, the milk solids will start to turn a golden brown, and a rich, nutty aroma will fill the kitchen. Remove from heat immediately to avoid over-browning.
- Infuse Butter with Herbs and Garlic: Once removed from heat, continue whisking the browned butter for about 30 seconds to stabilize its flavor. Then, add the minced garlic and all the finely chopped herbs: basil, chives, oregano, rosemary, and thyme. Stir thoroughly to combine, allowing the residual heat to release the herbs’ fragrance without cooking them to bitterness.
- Assemble the Dish: Return the toasted gnocchi to a serving dish or individual plates. Drizzle generously with the prepared herb brown butter, ensuring each gnocchi is coated with the aromatic sauce. Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese over the top and garnish with a few extra fresh herbs for color and flavor.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately while the gnocchi are hot and crisp. Each bite should deliver a delicate balance of crunch, soft interior, and the rich, nutty flavor of herb-infused brown butter. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete, satisfying meal.
Notes
- Always slightly undercook the gnocchi before toasting; this ensures a tender interior and prevents mushiness.
- Toast gnocchi in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the skillet and achieve even crispiness.
- Fresh herbs are key—substitute with dried herbs only if fresh aren’t available, but reduce quantity by half.
- Use a slotted spoon to drain excess oil, keeping the gnocchi light and crispy.
- Brown the butter carefully and whisk constantly to avoid burning and bitter flavor.
- Parmesan adds a salty, savory finish—opt for freshly grated rather than pre-shredded for best results.
- The recipe is versatile and can be doubled for entertaining or meal prep.
Chef’s Secrets for Crispy Gnocchi Delight
The secret to perfectly crispy gnocchi lies in timing and technique.
Slightly undercooking them ensures the inside remains pillowy while the outside crisps beautifully.
Use a hot, nonstick skillet and avoid overcrowding to allow proper browning.
When preparing the herb brown butter, constant whisking and immediate removal from heat prevent bitterness while creating a nutty, aromatic sauce.
Fresh herbs added off-heat maximize flavor and fragrance without overpowering the delicate gnocchi.
Serving Suggestions to Impress Guests
This dish shines as a main or side.
Serve it in shallow bowls to show off the golden crust and colorful herbs.
Pair with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or a light tomato sauce for balance.
A glass of dry white wine complements the nutty brown butter and fresh herbs beautifully.
For a casual weeknight meal, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper or a drizzle of lemon juice can elevate flavors effortlessly.
Storage Tips for Maximum Freshness
To store leftover gnocchi, allow it to cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheat in a skillet with a touch of olive oil to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving, which can make it soggy.
The herb brown butter can be stored separately in a small jar in the fridge for up to 5 days and gently reheated before drizzling.
For meal prep, toast gnocchi freshly on the day of serving for the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?
Yes, frozen gnocchi works perfectly.
Thaw briefly or cook straight from frozen according to package directions, adjusting to ensure they remain slightly undercooked before toasting.
2. Which herbs work best in brown butter?
Fresh herbs like basil, chives, oregano, rosemary, and thyme provide a balanced, fragrant flavor.
You can experiment with sage or tarragon for variation, but avoid overpowering strong herbs that compete with the gnocchi.
3. Can I make this dish vegan or dairy-free?
Absolutely. Swap butter with a high-quality plant-based butter or olive oil, and omit parmesan or use a vegan alternative.
The dish will still be rich, nutty, and flavorful.
4. How can I make gnocchi extra crispy?
Pat the gnocchi dry after boiling, use a hot skillet with enough oil, and avoid overcrowding.
Toasting in batches ensures each piece gets golden brown all around.
5. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, but for best texture, store gnocchi and herb brown butter separately.
Reheat the gnocchi in a skillet before serving to regain crispiness, then drizzle with reheated herb butter.
