Crispy Gnocchi With Spinach And Feta: One-Pan, 15-Minute Magic
A quick and flavorful skillet dish featuring crispy golden gnocchi, wilted spinach, and creamy feta cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, this vegetarian meal delivers a satisfying mix of textures and Mediterranean-inspired flavors in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450 g) potato gnocchi
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups (120 g) fresh spinach
- 4 ounces (115 g) feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Heat a large nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and heat until shimmering.
- Add the gnocchi in a single layer. Do not stir for 2 minutes, then toss and cook for 4–6 minutes more, until golden and crisp.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Stir and check for color.
- Push gnocchi to the edges and add minced garlic to the center. Cook 20–30 seconds until fragrant, then mix into the gnocchi.
- Add spinach and toss until wilted, about 45–60 seconds. Work in batches if necessary.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, add crumbled feta, and toss gently to combine without breaking all the chunks.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot in warm bowls and finish with extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Notes
- Use a wide pan so gnocchi browns instead of steaming.
- Dry the gnocchi before cooking to ensure crispiness.
- Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed.
- Add garlic late to prevent burning and bitterness.
- Add feta off the high heat to keep it creamy and flavorful.