Skillet Gnocchi With Miso Butter and Asparagus – A Flavor-Packed Vegetarian Dinner

Hello friends, Chef André here!
If you’re craving a vegetarian dinner that feels special but stays simple, this Skillet Gnocchi With Miso Butter and Asparagus is about to become your new favorite.Golden, pan-seared gnocchi develop a crispy exterior while staying tender inside, then get tossed in a rich miso butter that adds deep, savory flavor. Finished with fresh asparagus, this dish is comforting, elegant, and surprisingly easy to make-all in one skillet.

skillet gnocchi miso butter asparagus

What I love most about this Skillet Gnocchi With Miso Butter and Asparagus is how it transforms a handful of everyday ingredients into something truly impressive. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meatless meals, or anytime you want a vegetarian recipe that doesn’t feel boring.


Why This Skillet Gnocchi Recipe Works So Well

This dish checks all the right boxes:

  • Ready in about 35 minutes
  • One-skillet recipe for easy cleanup
  • Vegetarian and satisfying
  • Crispy, buttery, and full of umami
  • Elegant enough for guests

Simple technique, big flavor.


Ingredients for Skillet Gnocchi With Miso Butter and Asparagus

Here’s everything you’ll need:

  • 1 lb shelf-stable potato gnocchi
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1½ tablespoons white miso paste
  • 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Fresh herbs (parsley or chives), for garnish
  • Lemon zest or lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Smart Substitutions by Chef André

  • Gluten-free gnocchi if needed
  • Green beans or broccolini instead of asparagus
  • Plant-based butter for dairy-free version
  • Nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan

Step-by-Step Preparation – Chef André Guides You

1. Crisp the Gnocchi

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add gnocchi in a single layer and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and crispy on the outside.

Remove gnocchi from the skillet and set aside.


2. Cook the Asparagus

In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed.

Add asparagus and cook for 4–5 minutes, until tender-crisp and lightly browned.

Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.


3. Make the Miso Butter

Lower heat to medium.

Add butter to the skillet and let it melt.

Whisk in the miso paste until smooth and glossy.


4. Bring Everything Together

Return gnocchi to the skillet and toss gently to coat in the miso butter.

Cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing flavors to combine.

Season with black pepper and finish with lemon zest if desired.

Serve warm.


Creative Variations by Chef André

Make this Skillet Gnocchi With Miso Butter and Asparagus your own:

🍄 Mushroom Lover’s Version

Add sautéed mushrooms for extra depth.

🌶 Spicy Twist

Add chili flakes or chili crisp.

🧀 Extra Creamy

Add a splash of cream or plant-based cream.

🥬 Extra Greens

Stir in spinach or arugula at the end.


Chef’s Tips for Perfect Skillet Gnocchi

  • Don’t overcrowd the pan—gnocchi need space to crisp
  • Use medium-high heat for golden edges
  • Add miso off high heat to keep flavor balanced
  • Finish with acid (lemon) to brighten richness

These small steps make a big difference.


What to Serve with Skillet Gnocchi

This dish pairs beautifully with:

  • Simple green salad
  • Roasted vegetables
  • Garlic bread or flatbread
  • Sparkling water with lemon

It works as a main or an elegant side.


Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers up to 3 days
  • Reheat: Skillet over medium-low heat with a touch of butter
  • Freezer: Not recommended (texture changes)

FAQ – Skillet Gnocchi With Miso Butter and Asparagus

Is this dish very salty?
No—miso adds umami, not overpowering saltiness.

Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, but cook according to package instructions first.

Is this kid-friendly?
Yes! Mild, buttery, and comforting.

Can I meal prep this?
Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers reheat well.


Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~430 kcal
  • Protein: 12 g
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Carbohydrates: 46 g

(Values vary depending on butter and cheese.)


Conclusion – Chef André’s Elegant Vegetarian Skillet 🌿🍳

This Skillet Gnocchi With Miso Butter and Asparagus proves that vegetarian dinners can be just as comforting, bold, and satisfying as any meat-based dish. Crispy gnocchi, savory miso butter, and fresh asparagus come together in one skillet for a meal you’ll want to make again and again.

If you try it, leave a comment, rate the recipe, and tell me what you added to make it your own!
For safe food handling tips, I always recommend USDA Food Safety:
👉 https://www.usda.gov/food-safety

Happy cooking,
Chef André 👨‍🍳

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