Print

Crispy Brown Butter Trader Joe’s Cauliflower Gnocchi Best Easy Recipe

brown butter cauliflower gnocchi - featured image

A quick and easy recipe featuring crispy pan-fried Trader Joe’s Cauliflower Gnocchi tossed in rich, nutty brown butter with garlic and sage. Perfect for a comforting yet light weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (12 oz) bag Trader Joe’s Cauliflower Gnocchi (frozen)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 68 fresh sage leaves (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Thaw and dry the gnocchi by placing frozen gnocchi on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to remove excess moisture (about 5 minutes).
  2. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil; warm until shimmering but not smoking.
  3. Add the gnocchi in a single layer without overcrowding the pan. Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown.
  4. Flip the gnocchi gently and cook the other side for another 4-5 minutes until deep golden and crispy.
  5. In a separate small saucepan or the same pan after removing gnocchi, melt 3 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir frequently as it foams and turns golden brown with nutty aroma (3-4 minutes).
  6. Add minced garlic and fresh sage leaves to the browned butter and sauté briefly until fragrant and sage is crisp (about 1-2 minutes).
  7. Return the crispy gnocchi to the pan with the brown butter mixture. Toss gently to coat evenly.
  8. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  9. Serve immediately, sprinkled generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

Pat gnocchi dry before cooking to ensure crispiness. Do not overcrowd the pan to avoid steaming. Use medium heat to prevent burning the butter. Add garlic after butter is browned to avoid bitterness. Fresh sage adds a wonderful aroma but is optional. For dairy-free, substitute butter with plant-based butter and olive oil with avocado oil, and omit Parmesan or use vegan cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: Trader Joe’s Cauliflower Gnocchi, crispy gnocchi, brown butter, easy dinner, quick recipe, cauliflower gnocchi, vegetarian, gluten-free