If you’re looking for a dish that brings together crispy textures, vibrant flavors, and a touch of tangy creaminess, you’re in for a treat with the Crispy Brussels Sprouts Gnocchi with Feta Recipe. This dish masterfully combines perfectly toasted Brussels sprouts and golden gnocchi, all sprinkled with zesty lemon and crumbly feta, creating a harmonious blend that’s both satisfying and fresh. Whether you want a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive vegetarian main, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and become an instant favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image is split into two parts. On the left side, there are two layers on a baking sheet: the top layer has many bright green halved Brussels sprouts with visible leaves, and the bottom layer has many small, yellow gnocchi sprinkled with black pepper and herbs. The right side shows the same two layers after cooking: the Brussels sprouts are browned, with a crispy texture and darker green color, and the gnocchi have a golden brown color with a similar sprinkle of seasoning. The surface under the food is a light brown baking paper. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Crispy Brussels Sprouts Gnocchi with Feta Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a role in building layers of flavor, balancing textures, and bringing a beautiful color palette to the plate.

1 lb Brussels sprouts, ends removed: Fresh and earthy, these give the dish a lovely crunch and vibrant green color.
1 lb potato gnocchi (refrigerated or shelf-stable): Pillowy and soft, they soak up flavors while getting delightfully crispy on the edges.
2 tbsp avocado oil (or other cooking oil): Ideal for high-heat cooking, it helps achieve that coveted crispiness without overpowering the taste.
2 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that adds depth with herbs like oregano and basil.
1 tsp garlic powder: Brings a subtle, savory kick that pairs beautifully with the gnocchi and Brussels sprouts.
½ tsp onion powder: Enhances the overall warmth and complexity of the dish.
¼ tsp fine sea salt: Balances and heightens every flavor note.
½ tsp freshly ground black pepper: Adds a mild heat and sharpness.
¼ tsp chili flakes (optional): For a touch of spice that awakens the palate.
½ cup crumbled feta: Creamy, tangy, and slightly salty, feta adds a delightful contrast to the crispy elements.
½ tsp lemon zest (from ½ lemon): Fresh citrus brightness that lifts the entire dish.
Lemon juice to taste: Adds a refreshing acidity to finish.
Drizzle of extra virgin olive oil (optional): A finishing touch for richness and shine.

How to Make Crispy Brussels Sprouts Gnocchi with Feta Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Start by trimming the ends of your Brussels sprouts and slicing them in half. This helps them cook evenly and maximizes their surface area for crisping. Pat them dry to ensure they get that golden, crunchy exterior instead of steaming in the pan.

Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi

If you’re using refrigerated gnocchi, give them a quick boil according to the package instructions for just a couple of minutes until they float. Then drain and let them dry to prepare for pan frying. For shelf-stable gnocchi, you can skip boiling and go directly to pan frying for a crispier texture.

Step 3: Sauté Brussels Sprouts and Gnocchi

Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Brussels sprouts cut side down first, allowing them to caramelize and get beautifully browned—this usually takes 5 to 7 minutes. Flip them halfway to cook through. Next, add the gnocchi to the skillet, spreading them out so they don’t steam. Let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust. Season everything with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, sea salt, black pepper, and chili flakes if using.

Step 4: Add Lemon Zest and Feta

Once the Brussels sprouts and gnocchi are crispy and seasoned, sprinkle the lemon zest over the top. Turn off the heat and crumble the feta evenly across the dish, letting it warm slightly but not melt completely. This contrast between the hot, crispy bites and creamy feta is pure magic.

Step 5: Finish with Lemon Juice and Olive Oil

Just before serving, drizzle fresh lemon juice and optional extra virgin olive oil to add brightness and a silky finish. Give everything a gentle toss to combine flavors without breaking the crispy crusts.

How to Serve Crispy Brussels Sprouts Gnocchi with Feta Recipe

The image shows a white baking tray filled with two main layers: roasted gnocchi at the bottom which are golden yellow with visible seasoning and browned edges, and roasted Brussels sprouts cut in halves on the upper half, showing a green interior with some crispy brown outer leaves. The dish is sprinkled with uneven white crumbles of cheese scattered across both the gnocchi and Brussels sprouts. In the right side image, there is an added layer of finely chopped fresh green herbs sprinkled evenly on top of the cheese. The colors are warm and earthy, with the texture showing the crispiness of the roasted vegetables and softness of the cheese. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To add a final flourish, consider sprinkling chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil. A few toasted pine nuts or walnuts can bring an extra crunch and nutty warmth. For those who love a little heat, an extra pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of chili oil works wonders.

Side Dishes

This Crispy Brussels Sprouts Gnocchi with Feta Recipe pairs beautifully with simple side dishes like a light mixed greens salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or roasted garlic bread for mopping up all the delicious bits. For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or a colorful vegetable medley.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this dish family-style in a large rustic pan or plate individual portions on vibrant plates to highlight the contrast of green Brussels sprouts and white feta. Drizzle with extra lemon juice tableside for a touch of ceremony. You could even turn it into a warm salad by adding baby arugula or spinach just before serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dish keeps well, though the Brussels sprouts might lose a little crispness over time.

Freezing

While gnocchi can sometimes become mushy when frozen then thawed, this Crispy Brussels Sprouts Gnocchi with Feta Recipe is best enjoyed fresh. If you do want to freeze portions, separate the Brussels sprouts and gnocchi and freeze them raw, then cook fresh when ready.

Reheating

For best results when reheating, warm the dish in a skillet over medium heat to bring back some crispiness rather than microwaving. If needed, add a tiny splash of oil to refresh the textures and flavors.

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

While fresh Brussels sprouts yield the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen sprouts if thawed and patted dry thoroughly. Just be mindful that they may not crisp up as nicely.

Is potato gnocchi the only type that works?

Potato gnocchi is ideal here because of its pillowy texture and ability to crisp well, but you could experiment with other types like ricotta gnocchi. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How spicy is this dish with chili flakes?

The optional ¼ teaspoon of chili flakes adds a mild kick that enhances the flavors without overpowering them. Feel free to adjust to your heat preference or leave it out entirely.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the feta or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative. Nutritional yeast sprinkled on top can also add a cheesy flavor.

What’s the best oil to use for crisping?

Avocado oil is a great choice because of its high smoke point and neutral taste, but you can also use grapeseed oil or light olive oil.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this Crispy Brussels Sprouts Gnocchi with Feta Recipe, it will quickly become a go-to comfort meal. It’s that perfect mix of crispy edges, fresh flavors, and creamy tang that keeps you coming back for more. So gather your ingredients, warm up your skillet, and get ready to enjoy a dish everyone at your table will rave about!