Crispy Gnocchi With Spinach Feta

This crispy gnocchi with spinach and feta transforms humble potato dumplings into a restaurant-worthy meal in just 25 minutes. The magic happens when those soft pillowy gnocchi hit the hot pan and develop a golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the tender centers.

I discovered this recipe during a particularly hectic week when I needed something fast but satisfying. Now it has become my go-to impressive dinner when friends drop by unexpectedly, as everyone always asks for the recipe afterward.

Ingredients

• Gnocchi potato dumplings that crisp up beautifully in the pan, store-bought works perfectly
• Olive oil helps create that irresistible golden crust on the gnocchi, use good quality for best flavor
• Fresh spinach wilts down to add color and nutrition, look for bright green leaves without any yellowing
• Feta cheese brings tangy saltiness that balances the dish, choose a block in brine for best flavor
• Garlic adds aromatic depth, select firm bulbs with tight skin
• Salt enhances all the flavors, kosher salt works best here
• Black pepper brings subtle heat, freshly ground makes a difference
• Red pepper flakes optional but add a pleasant warmth, adjust to your heat preference

Step-by-Step Instructions

Boil the Gnocchi

Fill a large pot with water and add a generous tablespoon of salt. Bring to a rolling boil before adding the gnocchi. Cook just until they float to the surface, typically 2 to 3 minutes. Immediately remove with a slotted spoon to prevent overcooking and allow them to drain well.

Crisp the Gnocchi

Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the drained gnocchi in a single layer and resist the urge to stir right away. Let them cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes until they develop a beautiful golden crust on the bottom.

Develop All-Around Crispiness

Gently stir or flip the gnocchi to expose unbrowned sides to the hot pan. Continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes, occasionally shaking the pan to ensure even browning. The gnocchi should be crispy on multiple sides with a tender center.

Add Aromatics

Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the pan with the crispy gnocchi. Stir constantly for about 60 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant but not brown, which would make it bitter.

Wilt the Spinach

Add all the fresh spinach to the pan. It will look like a mountain at first, but quickly wilts down. Gently stir the spinach with the gnocchi until it reduces in volume and becomes tender, about 2 to 3 minutes.

Season and Finish

Season the mixture with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Be careful with salt since feta cheese is already salty. Remove the pan from heat.

Add the Cheese

While the pan is still warm but off the heat, sprinkle the crumbled feta throughout the dish. Gently fold it in so it slightly softens but maintains some of its shape and texture. Serve immediately on warmed plates.

Bookmark

The magic ingredient here is truly the feta cheese. My grandmother always said that feta makes everything better, and this dish proves her right. The way it slightly melts but maintains some of its shape creates pockets of tangy flavor that elevate every bite.

Storing Leftovers

While this dish shines brightest when freshly made, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The gnocchi will lose some crispiness, but the flavors actually deepen overnight. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat rather than a microwave to restore some of the textural contrast. Add a small splash of water to help revive the sauce, and a drizzle of olive oil to help re-crisp the gnocchi.

Perfect Substitutions

This recipe welcomes adaptations based on what you have available. Baby kale works beautifully in place of spinach, offering a slightly heartier texture that stands up well to the crispy gnocchi. If feta isn't your favorite, try goat cheese for a milder tang or even small cubes of mozzarella for a more melty experience. For the gluten-sensitive, many stores now carry gluten-free gnocchi varieties that crisp up just as nicely as traditional ones.

Serving Suggestions

This dish stands proudly on its own, but pairs wonderfully with a few complementary sides. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil provides a peppery freshness that cuts through the richness. For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted cherry tomatoes that burst with sweet acidity. A glass of crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc completes the experience, with bright acidity that stands up to the tangy feta.

Your Questions Answered About This Recipe

→ How do I ensure my gnocchi gets properly crispy?

For perfectly crispy gnocchi, ensure your pan and oil are properly heated before adding the boiled gnocchi. Let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes on each side to develop a golden crust. Use enough oil to coat the pan, and avoid overcrowding which can cause steaming instead of crisping. A heavy-bottomed pan helps maintain consistent heat for even browning.

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach for fresh. Thaw the frozen spinach completely and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the pan. You'll need approximately 1 cup of thawed, drained frozen spinach to replace the 4 cups of fresh spinach. Adjust cooking time accordingly as frozen spinach is already wilted and just needs to be heated through.

→ What can I use instead of feta cheese?

If you're looking for alternatives to feta, try goat cheese for a similar tangy profile, ricotta for a milder flavor, or mozzarella for a melty texture. Parmesan or pecorino add savory depth, while blue cheese offers bold flavor. For dairy-free options, consider a firm tofu-based cheese substitute or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the cheese.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed immediately after cooking to maintain the gnocchi's crispy texture, you can prepare components ahead of time. Boil the gnocchi, drain, and toss with a little olive oil, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, crisp the gnocchi and continue with the recipe. The completed dish can be stored for 1-2 days, though the gnocchi will lose some crispiness when reheated.

→ What are good side dishes to serve with this?

Crispy gnocchi with spinach and feta pairs wonderfully with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette, roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, or garlic bread to soak up any remaining sauce. For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or a light tomato soup. A glass of crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors beautifully.

→ How can I add more protein to this dish?

Boost the protein content by adding grilled chicken breast, sautéed shrimp, or Italian sausage. For vegetarian options, include white beans (cannellini), chickpeas, or toasted pine nuts. You could also mix in some pancetta or bacon bits when crisping the gnocchi for a savory boost. These additions complement the existing flavors while creating a more substantial meal.