If you’re craving something that brings together the best of Korean flavors with the comforting texture of Italian dumplings, this Gochujang Gnocchi Recipe is an absolute must-try. The spicy, tangy gochujang sauce perfectly hugs each pillowy gnocchi piece, creating a vibrant dish bursting with flavor and just the right kick. It’s surprisingly simple but feels like a gourmet treat, making it an ideal quick weeknight dinner or a delightful dish to impress friends who love fusion food. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be hooked on the exciting blend of spicy, sweet, and savory notes all packed in one bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is all it takes to create this flavorful dish. Each element plays its part—whether it’s the base gnocchi offering that soft chew, or the gochujang lending its unique spicy depth, every component combines to make magic on your plate.
- 1 pound (450g) potato gnocchi: The soft, tender base that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil or neutral oil: Adds a subtle nuttiness and helps sauté the garlic beautifully.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings an aromatic punch that warms up the entire dish.
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste): Provides that signature spicy and slightly sweet Korean flavor.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds a savory, salty balance to the heat.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Brings brightness and a slight tang to lift the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup: Gives a gentle sweetness that mellows the spiciness.
- 1/4 cup (60ml) water: Helps create a smooth, saucy texture coating the gnocchi.
- 1 tablespoon butter or vegan butter: Adds richness and a silky finish that makes each bite indulgent.
- 2 green onions, sliced: For a fresh, mild crunch just before serving.
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds: Adds a toasty crunch and visual appeal.
- Optional toppings: Crispy tofu, sautéed mushrooms, or a soft-boiled egg to customize your dish.
How to Make Gochujang Gnocchi Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi
Start by cooking the potato gnocchi according to the package directions—usually boiling just a few minutes until they float to the top. Drain them well and set aside. This soft base is ready to soak up the exciting gochujang sauce that’s coming next.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Heat sesame or neutral oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 to 2 minutes until it releases its aroma without browning. This step builds the savory foundation that will make your gnocchi sing with flavor.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Stir in the gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup, and water all at once. Keep stirring and cooking the mixture for 2 to 3 minutes until everything blends into a smooth, slightly thickened sauce. You’ll notice the heat from the gochujang balanced beautifully by the sweet and tangy ingredients.
Step 4: Toss in the Gnocchi and Butter
Add the cooked gnocchi and butter to the skillet. Toss everything together so each gnocchi piece is coated in that rich, spicy sauce. Keep cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes—it’s at this point that the gnocchi gain a slight crispness on the outside while remaining soft inside, making for an irresistible texture contrast.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove the pan from heat and scatter sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds on top. This finishing touch adds a fresh crunch and lovely nuttiness. Serve hot and add any of your favorite optional toppings to make it your own.
How to Serve Gochujang Gnocchi Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish can elevate this dish to the next level. Fresh green onions bring a mild pungency and color contrast, while toasted sesame seeds add a delightful crunch. For extra layers, consider sprinkling crushed seaweed flakes or a drizzle of additional sesame oil.
Side Dishes
While hearty on its own, pairing this gochujang gnocchi with lighter sides like steamed bok choy, sautéed spinach, or a crisp cucumber salad can balance the bold flavors. These greens offer refreshing brightness to complement the spicy richness of the gnocchi.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this gochujang gnocchi over a bed of sautéed mushrooms or alongside crispy tofu cubes for protein-packed options. For a brunch twist, place a perfectly soft-boiled egg on top—the creamy yolk adds a luxurious softness that pairs beautifully with the bold sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover gochujang gnocchi into an airtight container. Keep it refrigerated for up to 2 days. The gnocchi will continue to soak up the sauce, making the flavors even more intense by the next meal.
Freezing
If you want to extend its shelf life, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container. It’s best to freeze the gnocchi without fresh garnishes. The dish keeps well for up to 1 month in the freezer, perfect for meal prep or busy nights.
Reheating
To bring the dish back to life, gently reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil if needed to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve that lovely slight crispness on the gnocchi. Finish by sprinkling fresh green onions and sesame seeds again for that vibrant final touch.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this Gochujang Gnocchi Recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought potato gnocchi works perfectly for this recipe and helps you get dinner on the table quickly without sacrificing taste or texture.
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level mainly depends on the amount and type of gochujang you use—it has a mild to moderate heat with a sweet undertone. You can easily adjust it by adding more or less gochujang according to your preference.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! Simply substitute butter with vegan butter or additional sesame oil, and skip any animal-based optional toppings. The rest of the recipe is naturally vegetarian and can easily be made vegan-friendly.
What are some good toppings to pair with Gochujang Gnocchi Recipe?
Crispy tofu, sautéed mushrooms, or a soft-boiled egg are fantastic options. You could also add steamed greens or pickled vegetables for extra texture and flavor contrast.
Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
If you choose gluten-free gnocchi and check that your soy sauce is gluten-free, this recipe can be enjoyed without gluten. There are many great brands of gluten-free gnocchi available these days.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Gochujang Gnocchi Recipe—it’s an exciting fusion of textures and flavors that feels both indulgent and comforting. It’s quick to make, versatile, and packed with ingredients you probably already have around. Whether for a cozy solo dinner or sharing with friends, this dish brings warmth, spice, and a little something unexpected to your table. Give it a try and watch it become an instant favorite in your recipe rotation!
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Gochujang Gnocchi Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Korean-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant and flavorful Korean-inspired dish featuring potato gnocchi tossed in a spicy, savory gochujang sauce. This quick stovetop recipe combines tender gnocchi with a rich glaze made from gochujang, soy sauce, and honey, garnished with green onions and toasted sesame seeds for added texture. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner with optional toppings like crispy tofu or a soft-boiled egg.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound (450g) potato gnocchi
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil or neutral oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup (60ml) water
- 1 tablespoon butter or vegan butter
Garnish
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
Optional Toppings
- Crispy tofu
- Sautéed mushrooms
- Soft-boiled egg
Instructions
- Cook the gnocchi: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the potato gnocchi according to the package instructions until they float to the surface. Drain them well and set aside.
- Sauté garlic: Heat the sesame or neutral oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant but not browned.
- Prepare the sauce: Stir in the gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and water into the skillet. Cook the mixture for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened.
- Toss gnocchi in sauce: Add the cooked gnocchi and butter to the skillet, tossing them gently to coat in the gochujang sauce. Continue to cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the gnocchi to develop a slight crispness while the sauce clings nicely.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds on top. Serve the gnocchi hot, optionally topped with crispy tofu, sautéed mushrooms, or a soft-boiled egg for extra texture and protein.
Notes
- Adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less gochujang according to your taste.
- Incorporate sautéed vegetables like bok choy, spinach, or bell peppers to make the dish more balanced and nutritious.
- For extra crispiness, pan-fry the cooked gnocchi in a small amount of oil before tossing them with the sauce.
- Use vegan butter and maple syrup for a vegan version of this dish.
