Hello, welcome to my beautiful world! My name is Prisca Bush. I am a food lover; I enjoy writing about my favorite recipes.
Introduction
I’ll never forget the first time I tried pan-fried crispy gnocchi with spinach and feta recipe instead of boiling it. I had a package of gnocchi sitting in the pantry, some wilting spinach in the fridge, and a block of feta I had no real plan for. I didn’t feel like making a traditional pasta sauce, and boiling another pot of water just felt like too much for a Tuesday night.
Out of pure laziness (and curiosity), I tossed the gnocchi straight into a hot skillet with some olive oil. What happened next was magical: the gnocchi turned golden and crispy on the outside while staying soft and pillowy on the inside. I threw in the spinach, let it wilt down into the pan, and crumbled in the feta. Ten minutes, one pan, no stress—and so much flavor.
That night, this crispy gnocchi with spinach and feta recipe earned a permanent spot in my weeknight dinner rotation. It’s fast, it’s hearty, and it hits all the right notes: crispy, creamy, salty, and fresh. Best of all, this crispy gnocchi with spinach and feta recipe takes minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction. So, whether you’re cooking for one, feeding a hungry family, or hosting casual guests, this crispy gnocchi with spinach and feta recipe is the kind of dish that feels both rustic and elevated.
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Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta Recipe (2025)
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make this crispy gnocchi with spinach and feta recipe:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound (16 oz) store-bought gnocchi (shelf-stable, refrigerated, or vacuum-packed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more if needed)
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced or minced
- 1 small shallot or ½ onion, finely chopped
- 4–5 cups fresh baby spinach (or 1 standard bag)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Juice of ½ lemon (optional but recommended)
How to Make Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Pan and Crisp the Gnocchi
Start by heating a large non-stick skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it shimmer. Then, add the gnocchi in a single layer.
Let the gnocchi cook undisturbed for about 3–4 minutes until the bottoms are golden and crispy. Toss or flip them and continue cooking for another 3–4 minutes, until most sides are browned and crispy.
Pro tip: Avoid crowding the pan. If your pan is small, work in batches so the gnocchi can crisp up properly instead of steaming.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Once the gnocchi are nicely crisped, push them to one side of the pan and add a bit more oil if the pan looks dry. Add the chopped shallot (or onion) and garlic. Sauté for about 1–2 minutes until fragrant and softened.
Stir everything together in the pan.
Step 3: Wilt the Spinach
Add the spinach to the skillet and let it wilt down, stirring occasionally. You may need to add it in batches if it doesn’t all fit at once—it cooks down quickly.
Season with a pinch of salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Step 4: Add Feta and Finish
Once the spinach has fully wilted and everything is heated through, turn off the heat and stir in the crumbled feta. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for brightness if desired.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
How to Serve Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta Recipe
This Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta Recipe is incredibly versatile and satisfying on its own, but here are a few great ways to round it out:
- As a main course: Serve as-is in bowls with extra feta and fresh cracked pepper.
- With a salad: Pair with a simple arugula or cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
- With a protein: Add grilled chicken, salmon, or chickpeas to turn it into a heartier meal.
- Topped with a poached or fried egg: A runny yolk adds richness and turns it into a luxurious brunch or dinner.
It also makes great leftovers—reheat in a skillet for best texture.
Tips for a Perfect Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta Recipe
1. Use shelf-stable or vacuum-packed gnocchi
These are perfect for pan-frying and give the best crispy texture. Fresh gnocchi is softer and better for boiling.
2. Don’t boil the gnocchi
Skip the boiling water completely—pan-frying straight from the package gives you the crisp texture you want.
3. Let them sit undisturbed
To get that golden crust, don’t stir too often. Let each side brown before flipping.
4. Use a large non-stick or well-seasoned pan
This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
5. Balance flavors
Feta adds salt, so go light on the seasoning until the end. The lemon juice balances the saltiness with acidity.
Variations to Try
1. Crispy Gnocchi with Cherry Tomatoes and Feta
Add a handful of halved cherry tomatoes in with the garlic and let them blister. Their sweetness pairs beautifully with the salty feta.
2. Mediterranean Gnocchi Bowl
Toss in chopped kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil for Mediterranean flair.
3. Creamy Version
Add a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese at the end for a rich, creamy twist.
4. Spicy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta
Use more red pepper flakes or stir in a bit of harissa or chili crisp for added heat.
5. Vegan-Friendly Swap
Use plant-based gnocchi (check the label) and replace feta with a vegan alternative or crumbled tofu mixed with lemon juice and salt.
6. Gnocchi with Kale and Goat Cheese
Sub spinach for kale and use creamy goat cheese instead of feta for a tangier twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?
Yes, but let it thaw and pat it dry first. Moisture prevents it from getting crispy in the pan.
2. Can I use homemade gnocchi?
Homemade gnocchi is more delicate and best boiled for this Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta Recipe. For crispy results, store-bought shelf-stable or vacuum-sealed gnocchi is recommended.
3. Is this dish gluten-free?
Not by default, as most gnocchi contain wheat. Look for gluten-free labeled gnocchi if needed.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet to bring back some of the crisp texture.
5. Can I add protein to this Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta Recipe?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, sausage, bacon, shrimp, or chickpeas are all great additions.
6. How do I make it creamy without dairy?
Use a splash of full-fat coconut milk or stir in a dairy-free cream substitute. Vegan feta also works well.
7. What herbs go well with this Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta Recipe?
Fresh basil, parsley, thyme, or oregano all complement the flavors beautifully. Add right at the end for the most impact.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dinner that’s equal parts cozy and craveable, this crispy gnocchi with spinach and feta recipe delivers in every bite. It’s fast, easy, and packed with flavor. The crispy gnocchi add texture you didn’t know you needed, while the spinach and feta bring balance, creaminess, and a pop of freshness.
No fancy ingredients. No complicated steps. Just a few pantry staples, one skillet, and a whole lot of deliciousness. Whether you’re whipping it up on a busy Tuesday or making a low-effort Sunday brunch, this is one recipe that always hits the spot.