Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta

If you’re craving a satisfying yet simple meal, Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta is the perfect choice.

Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta, golden pan-seared gnocchi tossed with sautéed spinach,

Table of Contents

This recipe brings together crispy, golden gnocchi, fresh spinach, and tangy feta cheese in a quick, one-pan dish that’s both delicious and nutritious.

The combination of crispy gnocchi and the creamy, salty feta, along with the earthy flavor of spinach, creates a comforting meal you’ll want to make time and time again. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a weeknight dinner everyone will love!

Ingredients:

For the Gnocchi:

  • 1 pound potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Spinach and Feta:

  • 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for added freshness)
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano (optional for extra flavor)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Gnocchi:
    • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Add the gnocchi to the pan in a single layer, making sure they’re not overcrowded. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
    • Remove the gnocchi from the skillet and set them aside.
  2. Sauté the Spinach:
    • In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant and golden.
    • Add the spinach to the skillet, stirring occasionally, and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano (if using).
  3. Combine the Gnocchi, Spinach, and Feta:
    • Return the crispy gnocchi to the skillet and toss gently with the spinach and garlic. Add the crumbled feta cheese and toss again until everything is evenly mixed.
    • If you prefer, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
  4. Serve:
    • Serve the crispy gnocchi immediately, garnished with extra feta and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. Enjoy!
Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta, golden-brown gnocchi sautéed with fresh spinach, creamy feta cheese,

Helpful Notes:

  • Gnocchi Tip: For an even crispier texture, try pan-frying the gnocchi in two batches. This will help avoid overcrowding in the pan and allow the gnocchi to cook more evenly.
  • Spinach Substitution: You can use frozen spinach instead of fresh, but be sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture.
  • Make Ahead: If you’d like to prep ahead, cook the gnocchi and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to cook, just reheat it and sauté the spinach as directed.
  • Vegan Option: For a vegan version, simply omit the feta and replace it with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 4

Nutrition (Approximate per serving):

  • Calories: 350
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Cholesterol: 25mg
  • Sugar: 3g

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta is the ultimate comfort food with a crispy twist. It’s a perfect balance of textures and flavors – the crispy gnocchi, the tender spinach, and the creamy feta create an irresistible combination that’s both hearty and light. Best of all, it’s a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

FAQ

Q: Can I use homemade gnocchi for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Homemade gnocchi works perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure to cook it until it’s crispy, as store-bought gnocchi can often have a firmer texture that crisps up more easily.

Q: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen spinach well to avoid excess moisture in the dish.

Q: What other cheese can I use if I don’t have feta?
A: You can use goat cheese, ricotta, or Parmesan as an alternative to feta. Each of these cheeses will give a slightly different flavor, but they’ll all complement the gnocchi and spinach beautifully.

Q: Can I add meat to this dish?
A: Yes, you can! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or bacon would be great additions to this recipe. Simply cook the meat separately and add it to the skillet along with the gnocchi.

Recipe Variations

1. Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach and Ricotta:
Swap the feta for creamy ricotta cheese. The ricotta will melt beautifully into the spinach and gnocchi, adding an extra layer of creaminess to the dish.

2. Garlic Parmesan Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach:
For a richer flavor, sprinkle grated Parmesan over the gnocchi while they’re cooking for extra crispiness. The garlic and Parmesan combo is always a winner!

3. Crispy Gnocchi with Spinach, Feta, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Add some sun-dried tomatoes for an extra punch of flavor. The tanginess of the sun-dried tomatoes pairs wonderfully with the spinach and feta.