Trader Joe’s Stuffed Gnocchi Recipe

This crispy, gooey Trader Joes Stuffed Gnocchi Recipe is made with outside-in gnocchi, fresh spinach, and butter and ready in 15 minutes. The pillowy dumplings sizzle in the hot pan until golden brown before releasing a rich tomato and cheese center. I love how this simple stovetop method transforms a frozen staple into a complete meal.

The Secret To Getting It Right

I used to boil my frozen gnocchi, which always resulted in a mushy texture. Pan-frying them directly from frozen is the only way to achieve that crispy exterior.

Adding a splash of water and covering the pan creates steam to cook the centers thoroughly. I learned this prevents the cheese filling from remaining cold while the outside burns.

Trader Joes Stuffed Gnocchi Recipe Ingredients

• 1 package (16 oz) Trader Joe’s Outside-In Stuffed Gnocchi (frozen)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

How To Make Trader Joes Stuffed Gnocchi Recipe

1. Heat the Pan: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil and butter. Let the butter melt until it starts to bubble slightly.
2. Crisp the Gnocchi: Add the frozen gnocchi in a single layer. Cook undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes until the bottoms are deeply golden brown.
3. Steam the Centers: Pour in two tablespoons of water and immediately cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid. Let the gnocchi steam for 4 minutes.
4. Wilt the Spinach: Remove the lid and stir in the minced garlic and fresh baby spinach. Toss constantly for 1 to 2 minutes until the spinach wilts.
5. Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese and black pepper over the top before serving immediately.

Recipe Tips

• Do not thaw: Keep the gnocchi completely frozen until they hit the hot pan to prevent them from sticking together.
• Use a non-stick skillet: The starch from the potato dough tends to cling to stainless steel, so a non-stick or well-seasoned cast iron pan works best.
• Watch the heat: If the butter starts to brown too quickly, lower the heat slightly before adding the water to steam.

What To Serve With Stuffed Gnocchi

These rich potato dumplings pair perfectly with a crisp arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the heavy cheese. You can also serve them alongside roasted asparagus or garlic bread to soak up any extra butter in the bowl.

How To Store

Store any leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in a skillet over low heat with a little oil to revive the crispy texture, as microwaving makes them rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use the air fryer for this gnocchi?

Yes, you can air fry the frozen gnocchi at 375F for about 10 to 12 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Do I need to boil the gnocchi first?

No, boiling will make the stuffed gnocchi fall apart. Cooking them directly in the skillet yields the best texture.

What if I don’t have fresh spinach?

You can substitute frozen spinach for the fresh greens. Just make sure to thaw and drain it completely before adding it to the pan.

Can I add extra sauce?

The gnocchi already contain sauce inside, but you can toss them in a light pesto or extra marinara if you prefer a wetter dish.

Nutrition

• Calories: 380 kcal
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 25mg
• Sodium: 520mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 45g
• Protein: 12g

Try More Recipes:

• Trader Joe’s Gnocchi with Garlic and Spinach Recipe
• Trader Joe’s Gorgonzola Gnocchi Recipe
• Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Gnocchi with Brown Butter

Trader Joes Stuffed Gnocchi Recipe

Recipe by Nate Collins

Servings

3

servings

Prep time

5

minutes

Cooking time

10

minutes

Total time

15

minutes

Trader Joes Stuffed Gnocchi Recipe features crispy outside, gooey inside dumplings tossed with fresh spinach, butter, and parmesan. Ready in 15 minutes, this simple stovetop method turns a frozen staple into a fast weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 package (16 oz) Trader Joe’s Outside-In Stuffed Gnocchi (frozen)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 2 cups fresh baby spinach

• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

• 1. Heat the Pan: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil and butter. Let the butter melt until it starts to bubble slightly.
• 2. Crisp the Gnocchi: Add the frozen gnocchi in a single layer. Cook undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes until the bottoms are deeply golden brown.
• 3. Steam the Centers: Pour in two tablespoons of water and immediately cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid. Let the gnocchi steam for 4 minutes.
• 4. Wilt the Spinach: Remove the lid and stir in the minced garlic and fresh baby spinach. Toss constantly for 1 to 2 minutes until the spinach wilts.
• 5. Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese and black pepper over the top before serving immediately.