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Fried Gnocchi Bites with Marinara Dipping Sauce

Fried Gnocchi Bites with Marinara Dipping Sauce

  • Author: Kevin
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free option available

Description

Crispy, golden fried gnocchi bites served with a rich, tangy homemade marinara dipping sauce. This quick and easy appetizer combines pillowy gnocchi fried to perfection with a fresh basil and garlic infused tomato sauce, making it a kid-friendly, crowd-pleasing snack perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Fried Gnocchi Bites

  • 1 package store-bought soft potato gnocchi (about 16 oz)
  • Olive oil, for frying (about 1/4 cup)
  • Shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal), for topping or stuffing, optional (1/2 cup)

Marinara Dipping Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 6 fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to preference)
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (optional for balsamic variation)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinara Sauce: Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well. Season with salt, black pepper, chopped fresh basil, red pepper flakes, and apple cider vinegar if using. Let the sauce simmer gently, uncovered, for 10-15 minutes while you prepare the gnocchi to develop deeper flavors.
  2. Fry the Gnocchi: Heat about 1/4 cup olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pat the gnocchi dry to remove moisture. Arrange gnocchi in a single layer without overcrowding the pan. Fry each side for 3 to 4 minutes until golden and crisp. Flip carefully to crisp the other side. Drain the fried gnocchi on paper towels to remove excess oil.
  3. Optional Cheese Stuffed Gnocchi: If desired, split the gnocchi gently and fill with shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) before frying for a gooey center.
  4. Serve With Marinara Dipping Sauce: Place the crispy gnocchi bites on a serving plate. Pour warm marinara sauce into a separate bowl for dipping. Optionally, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) over the hot gnocchi to melt slightly before serving.

Notes

  • Use room temperature gnocchi to ensure even crisping and avoid sogginess.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan while frying to maintain crispy edges and consistent cooking.
  • Pat gnocchi dry before frying to eliminate excess moisture that prevents crispiness.
  • Simmer the marinara sauce uncovered to thicken and concentrate flavors.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning of the marinara sauce just before serving for the best balance.
  • Reheat fried gnocchi in a hot skillet or oven to retain crispiness; avoid microwaving.
  • Store leftover gnocchi bites and marinara sauce separately in airtight containers refrigerated up to 2 days.
  • Freeze fried gnocchi bites on a parchment-lined tray before transferring to a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Marinara sauce can also be frozen in portions.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: fried gnocchi, marinara dipping sauce, crispy appetizer, vegetarian snack, quick appetizer, gluten free gnocchi, easy finger food

Find it online: https://yumwayrecipes.com/fried-gnocchi-bites-with-marinara-dipping-sauce/