Garlic Parmesan Butter Gnocchi Recipe
Introduction
Garlic Parmesan Butter Gnocchi is a simple yet indulgent dish that combines tender potato gnocchi with a rich, garlicky butter sauce and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels special but requires minimal effort.

Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pound gnocchi
- 3 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper, or to taste
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the red pepper flakes and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 3: Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet. Increase the heat to high and cook for around 5 minutes, tossing continuously to crisp the gnocchi evenly on all sides.
- Step 4: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds over medium heat.
- Step 5: Season with salt and pepper, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Toss everything well to coat the gnocchi with the cheese and seasoning.
- Step 6: Garnish with fresh basil, sage, or parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine to the butter before tossing the gnocchi.
- You can swap Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms to the skillet for more texture and flavor.
- If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to preserve the crispiness, adding a little butter if needed. Avoid microwaving directly to prevent sogginess.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?
Yes, frozen gnocchi works well. Cook it directly from frozen according to package instructions before proceeding with the butter sauce.
How do I know when the gnocchi is crisp enough?
The gnocchi will develop a golden-brown crust on the outside when tossed in the hot butter. It should feel firm and slightly crispy when you toss it in the skillet.
PrintGarlic Parmesan Butter Gnocchi Recipe
Garlic Parmesan Butter Gnocchi is a comforting and flavorful Italian-inspired dish featuring pillowy gnocchi sautéed in rich butter infused with garlic and a hint of red pepper flakes. Coated generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, this simple yet indulgent recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal. The gnocchi are cooked until crispy on the outside while remaining soft inside, creating a delicious contrast in texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Gnocchi
- 1 1/2 pounds gnocchi
Butter Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Toppings
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, sage, or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, typically until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Drain the gnocchi well and set aside.
- Prepare the butter sauce: In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the red pepper flakes and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, infusing the butter with a gentle heat.
- Crisp the gnocchi: Increase the heat to high and add the drained gnocchi to the skillet. Continuously toss and cook the gnocchi for about 5 minutes, allowing them to develop a golden, crispy exterior on all sides for delightful texture.
- Add garlic: Reduce heat back to medium, add the minced garlic to the skillet, and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant, ensuring the garlic doesn’t burn.
- Season and add cheese: Season the gnocchi mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the gnocchi and toss thoroughly so every piece is coated in the flavorful cheese and butter.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil, sage, or parsley leaves for added color and aroma. Serve the garlic Parmesan butter gnocchi warm for the best taste experience.
Notes
- For added richness, feel free to drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil with the butter.
- You can substitute red pepper flakes with freshly ground black pepper if you prefer milder heat.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is recommended for the best flavor and texture.
- Leftover cooked gnocchi can be stored refrigerated and reheated gently in the skillet.
- Garnishes like fresh herbs should be added just before serving to maintain their fresh flavor.
Keywords: garlic parmesan gnocchi, butter gnocchi, crispy gnocchi recipe, easy gnocchi recipe, Italian gnocchi dish, skillet gnocchi

