Summer Skillet Gnocchi with Corn and Burrata

Summer Skillet Gnocchi with Corn and Burrata is a vibrant, fresh, and flavorful dish that combines pillowy gnocchi with the sweet crunch of summer corn, all brought together by the creamy goodness of burrata cheese. This one-pan dish is easy to make, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special meal to celebrate the flavors of summer. The combination of textures and flavors—crispy gnocchi, juicy corn, and rich burrata—makes this dish absolutely irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish has everything you want in a summer meal—quick, easy, and full of fresh, seasonal ingredients! The gnocchi are lightly pan-fried for a crispy texture, which pairs perfectly with the juicy, sweet corn. Burrata adds a creamy, indulgent touch, melting into the dish and bringing it all together. The dish is light yet satisfying, making it perfect for a summer dinner or a delicious side to complement grilled meats. It’s simple to make, requires minimal ingredients, and can be customized with herbs or spices to suit your taste.

Ingredients

• 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for pan-frying the gnocchi)

• 2 ears of fresh corn, kernels removed (or 1 1/2 cups frozen corn)

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (or parsley if you prefer)

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

• 1 ball of burrata cheese (about 4 oz)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Gnocchi:

1. Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions, usually for about 2-3 minutes until they float to the surface. Drain and set aside.

Make the Skillet Dish:

2. Pan-Fry the Gnocchi: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cooked gnocchi and pan-fry them for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and crispy on the outside. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the Corn: In the same skillet, add the butter and sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the corn kernels and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is lightly browned and tender.

4. Combine Ingredients: Return the crispy gnocchi to the skillet and toss everything together. Add the chopped basil, lemon juice (if using), red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine and let everything heat through for another 2-3 minutes.

Add the Burrata:

5. Top with Burrata: Once the gnocchi and corn are well mixed, remove the skillet from the heat. Tear the burrata into pieces and place it on top of the gnocchi and corn. Let it melt slightly into the warm ingredients for extra creaminess.

Serve:

6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the skillet dish warm, garnished with additional basil or herbs if desired. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2-3

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 15-20 minutes

• Total time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: You can easily add protein to this dish by including grilled chicken or shrimp for added flavor.

• Use Other Vegetables: Swap the corn for other in-season summer vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers.

• Make it Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes, or even a diced jalapeño, for a spicier version of this dish.

• Vegan Version: Replace the burrata with vegan cheese or a dollop of coconut yogurt for a dairy-free alternative.

• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, oregano, or dill for a unique twist on the flavor.

Storage/Reheating

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. If using the microwave, you may need to add a splash of water or broth to keep the dish from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi for this recipe. Just cook them according to the package instructions, and proceed with the recipe as directed.

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn?

Yes, frozen corn will work perfectly. Just be sure to thaw it before sautéing, or toss it directly into the skillet if you’re using frozen kernels.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead of time by cooking the gnocchi, sautéing the corn, and chopping the herbs. When you’re ready to serve, combine everything in the skillet and top with the burrata. The dish is best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for a day or two.

Can I use other types of cheese instead of burrata?

Yes! While burrata adds a creamy and rich texture, you can substitute it with fresh mozzarella, goat cheese, or even ricotta for a different flavor profile.

How do I get the gnocchi crispy?

To get crispy gnocchi, make sure to fry them in a hot skillet with enough oil so they don’t stick to the pan. Don’t overcrowd the skillet, and let the gnocchi cook undisturbed for a few minutes on each side before flipping them for a crispy golden finish.

Conclusion

Summer Skillet Gnocchi with Corn and Burrata is the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of the season in a quick, easy, and satisfying meal. The combination of crispy gnocchi, sweet corn, and creamy burrata makes for a delightful dish that’s both comforting and light. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite. Enjoy the fresh, summery flavors with every bite!