Amazing Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter: 1 Epic Recipe

October 9, 2025

Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter has become a staple in my kitchen, especially after a memorable trip to Italy where I first tasted pan-fried gnocchi with brown butter sauce. I remember the nutty aroma filling the air and the delightful crunch of each pillowy gnocchi. It was an instant love affair, and I’ve been perfecting my own easy crispy gnocchi brown butter recipe ever since. This dish, with its golden-brown edges and tender interior, truly elevates a simple weeknight meal into something extraordinary. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter

I genuinely believe this Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter recipe will become a new favorite in your home. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience.

The taste is simply divine, with the nutty brown butter perfectly complementing the tender, crispy gnocchi.
It’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you still crave something special.
This easy crispy gnocchi brown butter dish is surprisingly versatile and can be adapted to various dietary needs.
It feels gourmet but is very budget-friendly, using simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.
Even picky eaters tend to adore this browned butter gnocchi dish because of its delightful texture and rich flavor.
You’ll love how effortlessly it transforms humble gnocchi into a culinary masterpiece, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients for Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful dish. I’ve found that using quality components really makes a difference in the final flavor and texture of your crispy gnocchi brown butter.

1 pound Gnocchi (fresh, frozen, or gluten-free options) – I prefer fresh potato gnocchi for the best results, ensuring that crispy potato gnocchi brown butter texture.
2 tablespoons Olive Oil (for frying; can be substituted with canola oil) – this helps achieve that perfect golden crisp.
4 tablespoons Butter (unsalted preferred) – essential for developing that rich, nutty brown butter flavor.
8 leaves Sage (fresh leaves or dried) – fresh sage adds an aromatic depth that pairs beautifully with the browned butter.
1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed) – a bright touch to balance the richness.
2 cloves Garlic (minced; adjust based on preference) – for an extra layer of savory flavor.
4 ounces Prosciutto (crispy; can substitute with pancetta or bacon) – adds a salty, textural contrast.
1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated, adjust to taste) – the finishing touch for a salty, umami kick.

How to Make Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter

Making this dish is surprisingly simple, and I’ll walk you through each step to ensure you achieve perfectly golden and tender crispy gnocchi brown butter every time. This is my go-to gnocchi pan-fried brown butter recipe for a reason!

Step 1: First, boil your gnocchi. Place the gnocchi in a pot of generously salted boiling water. Cook them until they float to the surface, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Once they’re floating, drain them thoroughly. This is a crucial step for how to make crispy gnocchi with brown butter, as you need to pat them very dry with a paper towel to remove as much moisture as possible.
Step 2: Next, prepare your prosciutto. In a large skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the prosciutto slices and sauté them until they become wonderfully crispy, typically 4-5 minutes. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen! Remove the crispy prosciutto from the pan and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Now, for the gnocchi. In the same skillet (add more olive oil if needed), increase the heat to medium-high. Add the dried gnocchi in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them, undisturbed at first, until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust and become crispy on both sides. This usually takes around 4-6 minutes, so keep an eye on them. You’ll hear a lovely sizzle as they crisp up.
Step 4: While the gnocchi are frying, prepare your brown butter sauce. In a separate small pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Watch it closely as it begins to foam, then turn golden brown, and finally develop a delightful nutty aroma. This is the magic of brown butter! Once it reaches that beautiful amber color, stir in the minced garlic and fresh sage leaves. Cook for just 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 5: Combine everything. Carefully transfer the crispy gnocchi to the pan with the brown butter sauce. Toss everything together gently, ensuring every piece of gnocchi is coated in that rich, nutty sauce. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 6: To serve your delicious crispy gnocchi brown butter, plate the gnocchi and generously top with the reserved crispy prosciutto and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy the incredible textures and flavors!

Amazing Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter: 1 Epic Recipe - Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter - main visual representation of golden-brown gnocchi in a skillet

Pro Tips for the Best Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter

I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that truly elevate this dish. These pro tips will help you achieve restaurant-quality Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter right in your own kitchen.

Always pat your boiled gnocchi thoroughly dry before frying; moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying gnocchi; work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
Keep a close eye on your butter as it browns; it can go from perfectly nutty to burnt in seconds.
Use fresh sage if possible; its aroma and flavor are unparalleled in this dish.
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the entire dish and cuts through the richness.

What’s the secret to perfect Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter?

The real secret lies in two steps: thoroughly drying the gnocchi after boiling and not overcrowding the pan during frying. This allows the gnocchi to develop that beautiful golden crust. It’s truly the best way to get crispy gnocchi with a tender interior.

Can I make Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter ahead of time?

While best served fresh, you can prepare components ahead. Boil and dry the gnocchi, then store them in the fridge. You can also crisp the prosciutto in advance. Assemble and cook the Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter just before serving for optimal texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure your gnocchi are completely dry before frying to prevent sticking and steaming. Also, watch the butter carefully during browning; a burnt butter sauce will ruin the delicate flavor of your Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter. Don’t rush the frying process.

Best Ways to Serve Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter

I find that this delightful Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter dish is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for various occasions. Here are my favorite ways to serve it, ensuring every bite is a memorable one.

For a complete and satisfying meal, I often serve my gnocchi with nutty browned butter alongside a simple, crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad beautifully balances the richness of the gnocchi. Another fantastic option is to pair it with some roasted asparagus or blanched green beans, which add a lovely crunch and vibrant color to your plate.

If you’re looking to elevate it further, a dollop of fresh ricotta cheese on top adds a creamy texture and a subtle tang. Sometimes, I even sprinkle a few toasted pine nuts for an extra layer of flavor and crunch. Enjoying this Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter dish warm is key to appreciating its textures and aromas!

Amazing Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter: 1 Epic Recipe - Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter - close-up of crispy gnocchi with sage and prosciutto

Nutrition Facts for Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter

I find it helpful to know the nutritional breakdown, especially when planning meals. Here are the approximate nutrition facts for one serving of this delicious Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter dish (this recipe makes 4 servings):

Calories: 450 kcal
Protein: 15 g
Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 60 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 600 mg

Please remember that these nutritional values are estimates and may vary slightly based on the specific brands and ingredients you use for your Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter.

How to Store and Reheat Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter

I often find myself with a little extra Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter, and thankfully, it stores and reheats beautifully! To keep it at its best, first allow any leftovers to cool completely to room temperature. This prevents condensation and keeps things from getting soggy.

Once cooled, transfer the gnocchi to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions of Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter for up to 3 months. I usually lay them flat on a baking sheet to freeze solid first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag to prevent sticking.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheating is simple. I recommend reheating in a skillet over medium heat with a tiny bit of olive oil or butter until warmed through and the gnocchi regain their crispiness. This is truly the best way to achieve crispy gnocchi again, even after being stored. Avoid the microwave if you want to maintain that delightful texture!

Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter recipe?

Absolutely! I’ve used frozen gnocchi many times with excellent results. Just follow the package directions for boiling, then make sure to pat them extra dry before pan-frying. The key to achieving that perfect Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter texture is removing as much moisture as possible.

Why is my gnocchi not crispy when I try to make Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter?

There are usually a few culprits if your gnocchi isn’t achieving that desired crispiness. The most common reason is not drying the gnocchi enough after boiling. Moisture prevents browning. Another factor could be overcrowding the pan; if there are too many gnocchi, they will steam instead of fry. Lastly, ensure your oil and pan are hot enough before adding the gnocchi for that beautiful golden crust on your Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter.

What can I substitute for sage in Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter?

If you’re not a fan of sage or don’t have it on hand, other herbs work wonderfully in this Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter dish. Fresh thyme or rosemary can offer a different but equally delicious aromatic profile. For a lighter touch, fresh parsley or chives stirred in at the end can also be lovely. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite herb combination for browned butter gnocchi.

Is this Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter dish gluten-free?

This Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter recipe can easily be made gluten-free! Simply use gluten-free gnocchi, which are widely available in most grocery stores. The other ingredients in the recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a delicious and accessible option for those with dietary restrictions.

Variations of Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter You Can Try

I love how adaptable this Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter recipe is! It’s a fantastic base for culinary creativity, and I’ve tried several variations that I think you’ll enjoy. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own.

Brown Butter Sage Gnocchi Crispy: For a classic and incredibly aromatic twist, simply increase the amount of fresh sage in your brown butter sauce. The earthy sage pairs perfectly with the nutty butter and the crisp gnocchi, creating a deeply satisfying dish.
Spicy Crispy Gnocchi: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to your brown butter sauce along with the garlic. It gives the Crispy Gnocchi Brown Butter a pleasant kick that awakens the palate.
Crispy Gnocchi with Sage Browned Butter and Vegetables: Enhance the dish by adding seasonal vegetables. Sauté some chopped asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or spinach with the gnocchi or in the brown butter sauce for a more substantial and colorful meal. This also makes for a delightful and simple crispy gnocchi brown butter recipe.
Mushroom & Thyme Variation: Sauté sliced mushrooms until golden before adding them to your gnocchi, and swap out sage for fresh thyme in your browned butter. This creates a rich, earthy profile that’s truly delicious.