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Crispy Cauliflower Gnocchi Recipe with Brown Butter Sage and Parmesan

crispy cauliflower gnocchi - featured image

A quick and easy recipe featuring store-bought cauliflower gnocchi pan-fried until crispy, then tossed in nutty brown butter with fresh sage and Parmesan for a comforting, flavorful meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 package frozen cauliflower gnocchi (about 12 oz)
  • 4 tablespoons (60 grams) unsalted butter
  • 810 fresh sage leaves
  • ½ cup (50 grams) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
  • Optional: 1 clove garlic, minced

Instructions

  1. Thaw the cauliflower gnocchi by letting them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes or microwave on defrost for 1-2 minutes.
  2. Preheat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Warm until shimmering but not smoking.
  3. Add the gnocchi in a single layer without overcrowding. Fry for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
  4. Transfer the crispy gnocchi to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil if needed.
  5. Reduce heat to medium-low and add 4 tablespoons unsalted butter to the same skillet. Stir frequently as it melts and browns to a light caramel color, about 3-4 minutes.
  6. Add fresh sage leaves and optional minced garlic to the brown butter. Fry gently for about 1 minute until sage is crisp and fragrant.
  7. Return the crispy gnocchi to the pan and toss gently to coat with the brown butter and sage mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Remove from heat and sprinkle ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan over the gnocchi. Toss gently to slightly melt the cheese.
  9. Serve immediately, garnished with extra sage leaves or Parmesan shavings if desired.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pan when frying gnocchi to ensure crispiness. Brown the butter carefully to avoid burning. Fresh sage leaves are essential for crisp texture and flavor. For vegan version, substitute butter with vegan butter and Parmesan with nutritional yeast or plant-based cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: cauliflower gnocchi, crispy gnocchi, brown butter sage, Parmesan, quick dinner, easy meal, gluten-free, vegetarian