Pan-Roasted Gnocchi: Crispy, Soft, Perfect

Pan-roasted gnocchi is a quick and easy meal that can be made in under 30 minutes. Unlike traditional methods of boiling gnocchi, pan-roasting or oven-roasting gives the gnocchi a crispy exterior while keeping the inside chewy and tender. This method also eliminates the need for a pasta pot and the hassle of waiting for water to boil. To make pan-roasted gnocchi, simply toss the gnocchi with olive oil, vegetables, and seasonings of your choice, spread them on a baking sheet, and roast in the oven. The key to achieving the perfect texture is to ensure even spacing on the baking sheet and stir halfway through the cooking process. The result is a delicious and convenient weeknight dinner that your family will love.

Choosing your gnocchi

The great thing about pan-roasted gnocchi is that you can use store-bought gnocchi, and you don't need to boil it first. You can use either refrigerated or shelf-stable potato gnocchi. If you're buying from a store, one source recommends the Isola brand, available at Whole Foods, and Trader Joe's gnocchi.

You can also make your own gnocchi from scratch, but this will require more time and effort. If you're feeling adventurous, you can find many recipes online for making your own gnocchi dough, which typically includes potatoes, flour, and eggs.

When choosing your gnocchi, consider the type of potato used, as this can affect the texture and flavour. Some recipes use starchy Russet potatoes, while others might use waxier varieties like Yukon Gold. The type of potato will impact the gnocchi's texture, with starchy potatoes resulting in fluffier gnocchi and waxier potatoes yielding denser, chewier dumplings.

Additionally, you can experiment with different shapes and sizes of gnocchi. Traditional gnocchi has ridges on one side and a dimple on the other, created by gently pressing the dough with a fork. However, you can also find gnocchi in various shapes, such as ridged, smooth, or even stuffed. The shape can influence the overall texture and how it holds up during cooking.

Lastly, while potato gnocchi is the most common, you can also find gnocchi made with alternative ingredients like cauliflower, bread, ricotta cheese, or even sweet potatoes. These variations can offer different flavours and nutritional profiles, so feel free to explore and choose the type of gnocchi that aligns with your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Preparing your vegetables

For this recipe, you will need to chop up a selection of vegetables. The great thing about this dish is that you can adapt it to your taste and use whatever vegetables you like. Some popular options include cherry tomatoes, peppers, onions, garlic, spinach, and mushrooms.

Once you have chosen your vegetables, chop them into bite-sized pieces. You want them to be small enough that they will cook through in the same amount of time as the gnocchi, but not so small that they burn or disintegrate.

For root vegetables like onions, aim for a dice of around 1/2-inch. For softer vegetables like peppers, slightly larger pieces are fine, around 1-inch chunks. For garlic, it is best to slice or mince it thinly so that it does not burn during cooking. If using cherry tomatoes, simply halve or quarter them, depending on their size.

You can prepare the vegetables in advance if you like; chopping them a few hours ahead of time or even the morning of cooking will work well.

When you are ready to cook, preheat your oven to between 425-450°F, depending on your recipe. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil sprayed with nonstick spray.

Place your chosen vegetables in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle over seasonings such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes. Toss everything together until the vegetables are well coated.

Now you are ready to add your gnocchi and proceed with the recipe!

Seasoning and flavouring

The key to a delicious pan-roasted gnocchi dish is in the seasoning and flavouring. Here are some tips and suggestions to help you create a mouth-watering meal:

Choose the right oil

Extra-virgin olive oil is the preferred choice for roasting gnocchi. It has a higher smoke point than other oils, which means it can withstand the high temperatures of the oven without burning. It also adds a fruity, slightly bitter flavour that complements the other ingredients well. However, you can also use regular olive oil or another type of oil with a high smoke point, such as avocado oil or refined peanut oil.

Herbs and spices

A variety of herbs and spices can be used to season your gnocchi and vegetables. Here are some popular options:

• Za'atar: This Middle Eastern spice blend adds an earthy, aromatic flavour to the dish. If you don't have za'atar, you can substitute Italian seasoning.
• Thyme: Fresh thyme leaves add a subtle, slightly woody flavour.
• Red pepper flakes: These add a spicy kick to the dish. You can adjust the amount to your taste preference.
• Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh flavour to the dish.
• Basil: Fresh basil leaves can be torn and added at the end for a pop of colour and flavour.
• Garlic: Thinly sliced or minced garlic adds a savoury depth of flavour. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
• Salt and pepper: A generous amount of salt and pepper will enhance all the other flavours in the dish.

Cheese

Cheese adds a creamy, salty element to the dish. Here are some options to consider:

• Feta: Large chunks of feta cheese offer a lovely contrast to the chewy gnocchi and tender vegetables.
• Parmesan: Grated Parmesan cheese can be sprinkled on top of the dish for added flavour and texture.
• Burrata: Freshly torn burrata is a creamy, indulgent addition to the roasted gnocchi.
• Pecorino Romano: This salty, nutty-flavoured cheese can be used instead of Parmesan.

Vegetables

The choice of vegetables is crucial to the success of your pan-roasted gnocchi. Here are some options:

• Cherry tomatoes: These release their juices in the oven, creating a jammy sauce that coats the gnocchi and other vegetables.
• Broccolini: Chopped into large pieces, broccolini adds a crisp-tender texture to the dish.
• Red onion: Thinly sliced red onion provides a savoury depth of flavour.
• Bell peppers: Chopped red, orange, or yellow bell peppers add a pop of colour and a sweet, caramelised flavour to the dish.

Feel free to experiment with different combinations of herbs, spices, cheeses, and vegetables to find your perfect flavour profile. Remember, the key to successful seasoning is to taste as you go and adjust the amounts to your preference.

Cooking methods

Pan-roasted gnocchi is a quick and easy meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. It involves roasting or pan-frying gnocchi, which gives it a crispy exterior while keeping the inside chewy and tender. This method eliminates the need for boiling the gnocchi, making it a convenient one-pan dish.

Oven-Roasted Gnocchi:

To prepare oven-roasted gnocchi, preheat your oven to 425-450°F. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminium foil sprayed with nonstick spray. In a large bowl, toss the gnocchi with your choice of vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, peppers, onions, garlic, and herbs. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices or herbs of your choice. Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to space out the ingredients as much as possible for even browning. Roast for 10 minutes, then stir and return to the oven for another 15-20 minutes, or until the gnocchi is tender and the vegetables are browned.

Pan-Fried Gnocchi:

For pan-fried gnocchi, heat a large skillet on medium-high heat and add enough olive oil to lightly coat the bottom of the pan. Add the gnocchi to the pan, breaking up any clumps, and cover with a lid or baking sheet. Cook undisturbed until the gnocchi is golden brown on one side, which should take about 2-4 minutes. Transfer the browned gnocchi to a bowl and repeat with the remaining gnocchi if working in batches.

In the same pan, add butter and cook over medium-high heat until it turns golden brown and toasty. Add garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to the melted butter, adjusting the heat as needed to avoid scorching. Toss in the tomatoes and a small amount of water, cooking until the tomatoes soften and the liquid thickens slightly. Smash the tomatoes as they burst to create a sauce. Add the seared gnocchi and any additional ingredients, such as herbs, and stir to coat evenly. Top with cheese, such as mozzarella or Parmesan, and drizzle with olive oil. Broil for 2-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and browned.

Serving suggestions

Sheet pan gnocchi is a versatile dish that can be served as a standalone meal or paired with various side dishes. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your pan-roasted gnocchi experience:

• Focaccia or Garlic Bread: These sides are perfect for soaking up any delicious juices left on your plate, adding a warm and crispy texture to the meal.
• Side Salad: A fresh green salad, arugula salad, or chopped salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the heartiness of the gnocchi.
• Sautéed Greens: Spinach or kale are excellent choices to round out the meal and add a nutritious boost.
• Protein Addition: Consider adding grilled sausage, sliced grilled chicken, or Italian chicken sausage for a heartier meal.
• Cheese Variation: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as burrata, ricotta, or goat cheese, to add a creamy or tangy twist to the dish.
• Spicy Kick: Include red pepper flakes or black pepper to give the gnocchi a mild or spicy heat that complements the other flavours.
• Vegetable Medley: Feel free to mix and match vegetables according to the season. In fall, try fennel, butternut squash, and kale. For spring, asparagus and radishes are a delightful choice. In summer, zucchini and green beans pair beautifully with the gnocchi.
• Dessert: Since the main course is so easy to prepare, why not indulge in a sweet treat afterward? Baked apples or a colourful fruit salad would be perfect palate cleansers to conclude the meal.

Frequently asked questions