If you want to dazzle your friends with a dish that’s equal parts comfort food and show-stopper, you have to try this: Place crispy gnocchi on a serving plate, crown it with creamy burrata, tangy-sweet cranberries, and top it all off with a bold, spicy maple drizzle. The result is a plate piled high with contrasting textures and flavors—pillowy gnocchi, golden crunch, cool cheese, and a surprising sweet heat—that vanishes fast at any table. Whether you’re serving it at a laid-back dinner or for a special evening, every bite offers something a little unexpected and a lot irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe is how a handful of thoughtfully chosen ingredients create layers of flavor and texture. Each element plays a critical role: from the sturdy gnocchi base to the zippy maple drizzle, nothing is here by accident.
- Potato Gnocchi (500g): These tender little dumplings form the foundation of the dish—choose good quality store-bought, or homemade for extra flair.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Helps create that coveted crispy exterior on every gnocchi bite.
- Butter (1 tbsp): Adds a rich, nutty depth and assists in browning the gnocchi beautifully.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for pulling every last bit of flavor from both the gnocchi and the toppings.
- Burrata Cheese (1 ball): Dreamily creamy, burrata melts over the hot gnocchi, giving every forkful luscious silkiness.
- Fresh or Dried Cranberries (½ cup): Their tart sweetness is the perfect pop of contrast against the rich and savory elements.
- Fresh Parsley, Chopped (2 tbsp): Brings a burst of color and fresh, herbal brightness to finish the dish.
- Maple Syrup (3 tbsp): The backbone of the spicy drizzle—choose real maple for best flavor.
- Chili Flakes (¼ tsp, or to taste): Adds subtle heat that wakes everything up.
- Smoked Paprika (½ tsp): Infuses the sauce with a gentle, smoky warmth that takes the drizzle to the next level.
How to Make Place crispy gnocchi on a serving plate
Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi
Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Add your gnocchi and give them a little stir to keep them from sticking. As soon as they bob to the surface (usually 2–3 minutes), scoop them out with a slotted spoon and drain well. This ensures the gnocchi are perfectly tender and ready for crisping.
Step 2: Crisp the Gnocchi
Heat up the olive oil and butter in a big non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and foamy, add the drained gnocchi in a single layer. Take your time here—don’t overcrowd the pan. Let them cook, turning occasionally, until each pillow is golden-brown and irresistibly crispy on all sides. Season as you go with salt and freshly cracked pepper. This step is where the transformation happens, turning soft gnocchi into snackable, crunchy bites.
Step 3: Prepare the Spicy Maple Drizzle
While the gnocchi gets golden, quickly whisk up your drizzle. In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, chili flakes, and smoked paprika. Warm it just until everything melds together and becomes fragrant, then set it aside. This quick sauce brings sweetness, gentle smoke, and just enough heat to keep you reaching for another bite.
Step 4: Place crispy gnocchi on a serving plate and Assemble
Here’s where the magic comes together. Carefully place crispy gnocchi on a serving plate—the crunchier the better! Tear the burrata into luscious pieces and scatter it over the warm gnocchi, allowing it to melt into nooks and crevices. Sprinkle the cranberries generously on top, getting a little in every forkful. Finally, drizzle that spicy maple sauce lavishly over everything. Each layer adds its own flair and flavor, making this step nearly as satisfying as eating it.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
To finish, add a final flurry of chopped fresh parsley. It brings a hit of color and a lively herbaceousness that freshens up every bite. Once your creation is garnished, serve it right away while the cheese is creamy and the crispy gnocchi are still shatteringly crisp. This is indulgence at its best!
How to Serve Place crispy gnocchi on a serving plate
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is classic, but you can elevate the experience with a few extra twists: try a little lemon zest for brightness or a dusting of freshly ground black pepper for aroma. Even a scatter of toasted pine nuts brings a delightful crunch. Just don’t forget to place crispy gnocchi on a serving plate first, so your toppings get maximum impact.
Side Dishes
This gnocchi dish is hearty enough to steal the spotlight, but it also loves good company. Think simple green salads tossed with vinaigrette, crusty bread for sopping up any creamy cheese and maple sauce, or lightly grilled vegetables. When you place crispy gnocchi on a serving plate alongside these sides, you get a meal that strikes just the right balance.
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties, try individual small plates—place crispy gnocchi on a serving plate for each guest, crowned with a pom of burrata and a delicate drizzle. You could also line up the gnocchi on a long platter, scatter-on the toppings, and let everyone dig in family-style. For a twist, serve as an appetizer in little bowls: it’s guaranteed to disappear fast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you somehow end up with leftovers, don’t stress! Place crispy gnocchi on a serving plate, allow them to cool, then refrigerate airtight for up to 2 days. Keep any extra burrata and drizzle separately, so you can recombine everything just before serving for the best textures and flavors.
Freezing
It’s best to freeze gnocchi before you add burrata or toppings. Freeze plain cooked gnocchi after draining and cooling, laid flat on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to use, let them thaw in the fridge before crisping and assembling. The spicy maple drizzle can be made ahead and chilled for up to a week—just give it a good stir before using.
Reheating
Return leftover gnocchi to golden glory by reheating in a hot pan with a splash of oil—this brings back crispiness quickly. Warm the maple drizzle gently if needed, and let the burrata come to room temperature before assembling. Toss everything together and place crispy gnocchi on a serving plate to refresh the whole experience.
FAQs
Can I use homemade gnocchi instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Homemade gnocchi will bring a fluffy, tender texture that really shines when crisped in the pan. Just keep the size and shape consistent for even frying, and place crispy gnocchi on a serving plate as soon as they’re golden and crisp.
What other cheeses work if I can’t find burrata?
For similar creaminess, try fresh mozzarella balls torn into chunks, or a scoop of whipped ricotta. Both options melt softly onto the hot gnocchi and absorb the spicy maple drizzle beautifully.
Is the spicy maple sauce very hot?
It has a gentle kick, but you can easily adjust the chili flakes to suit your crowd. Add more for bolder spice or just a pinch for a milder experience—the sweet maple and creamy cheese keep things in perfect balance.
Can I make this gluten free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free gnocchi, which are widely available at many grocery stores. The rest of the ingredients naturally fit into gluten-free diets, so everyone can enjoy this dish worry-free.
What wine pairs well with this dish?
A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or a light-bodied red like Gamay works wonders. The wine’s acidity cuts through the richness of the burrata and balances the sweetness of the maple drizzle, especially when you place crispy gnocchi on a serving plate piled high with all the finishings.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for a new comfort dish that’s fun, full of surprises, and super simple to make, don’t hesitate: whip up this recipe and place crispy gnocchi on a serving plate tonight. With just a few steps and vibrant, smart toppings, it could become your new favorite way to enjoy gnocchi—one that invites everyone back to the table for seconds.
