Gnocchi pizza is a fun twist on your favorite slice! It uses soft, pillowy gnocchi instead of regular dough, giving it a unique texture that’s sure to impress.
Add your go-to pizza toppings, like cheese, veggies, and pepperoni. It’s like a hug in pizza form! 😄 I love how quick it is to make—you can have it ready in no time for a cozy movie night.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Gnocchi: Choose refrigerated gnocchi for the best texture and taste. If you can’t find it, frozen works too, just make sure to thaw before using. Homemade gnocchi is also a great option if you’re feeling adventurous!
Olive Oil: Essential for frying the gnocchi, it adds flavor. You can swap it for vegetable oil or avocado oil if you prefer. Just avoid oils with strong flavors that might overpower the dish.
Pizza Sauce: Store-bought sauce is convenient, but you can use homemade marinara or even pesto for a twist. For a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Cheese: Mozzarella is classic, but feel free to mix in other cheeses like provolone or cheddar. If you’re dairy-free, there are great vegan cheese alternatives available.
Pepperoni: I’m a fan of turkey or vegetarian pepperoni for a healthier option, but any toppings you enjoy work well! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives also add great flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Gnocchi Gets Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispy texture on the gnocchi is key for this recipe. Here’s how you can do it:
- Start with a hot skillet and enough oil to coat the bottom—this helps in achieving a good sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the gnocchi; keep them in a single layer. If the pan is too crowded, they will steam instead of fry.
- Cook until they have a golden brown color before moving them around. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes over medium-high heat.
By following these tips, you’ll get a delightful texture that makes every bite enjoyable. Happy cooking! 🍽️
How to Make Gnocchi Pizza?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Essential Ingredients:
- 1 package (about 16 oz) refrigerated or frozen potato gnocchi
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
- 1 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 20-25 slices pepperoni (or desired pizza toppings)
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, optional, for finishing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This gnocchi pizza recipe is quick and easy! You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and about 25 minutes of cooking time. Total, you’ll be enjoying your delicious pizza in about 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This way, it’s hot and ready for your pizza once it’s assembled!
2. Fry the Gnocchi:
In a large oven-safe skillet (like cast iron), heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the gnocchi in a single layer. Fry for about 3-4 minutes, giving them a gentle stir now and then until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. If you’re using frozen gnocchi, make sure to thaw them first or cook them a bit longer.
3. Add Sauce and Cheese:
Once the gnocchi is nicely browned, reduce the heat to medium-low. Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the gnocchi. Then, sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese on top!
4. Top with Your Favorites:
Lay the pepperoni slices evenly over the cheese, or go wild with your favorite toppings—this is your pizza, after all!
5. Bake the Pizza:
Carefully transfer the skillet to the hot oven. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and just turning golden brown.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, pull it out of the oven (but watch out, it’s hot!). Garnish your gnocchi pizza with fresh basil leaves and, if you like, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
7. Enjoy!
Now it’s time to dig in! Enjoy your crispy, cheesy, and delicious gnocchi pizza. Perfect for a cozy night in or whenever the pizza craving hits!
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi for This Recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen gnocchi! Just make sure to thaw it before frying to ensure even cooking. If you prefer, you can fry them straight from frozen, but you may need to cook them a bit longer to achieve that golden brown exterior.
Can I Make This Pizza Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can fry the gnocchi and assemble the pizza a few hours in advance, then cover and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What Toppings Can I Use Instead of Pepperoni?
The great thing about this recipe is its versatility! Feel free to substitute pepperoni with any of your favorite toppings like bell peppers, mushrooms, olives, or even cooked sausage. You could also go vegetarian with spinach, artichokes, or cherry tomatoes!
How Should I Store Leftover Gnocchi Pizza?
Store leftover gnocchi pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. You can also use the microwave, but it may not retain the same crispiness.
