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4.86 from 14 votes

How to Make Trader Joe's Cauliflower Gnocchi

The package directions on this cult classic hit results in soggy gnocchi so we're going step-by-step on How to Make Trader Joe's Cauliflower Gnocchi! It's a quick weeknight meal on a budget and is a great gluten-free alternative to a classic gnocchi.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Servings: 2 -4
Author: Lexi

Ingredients

  • 2 - 12 ounce bags Trader Joe’s Cauliflower Gnocchi
  • 2 tablespoons oil or butter
  • 1 heaping cup baby spinach
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon italian seasoning
  • Pinch red pepper flakes
  • ½ cup marinara sauce of choice
  • cup mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  • Ignore the package instructions.
  • Defrost the gnocchi: You can either let thaw out on the counter for an hour or you can microwave the gnocchi on a plate for 2-4 minutes. Once thawed you want to pat dry any condensation. 
  • In a large non-stick or well-seasoned cast iron skillet heat 2 tablespoon oil until it’s hot add the gnocchi in an even layer. Let the gnocchi sit undisturbed for 3 minutes. Flip the gnocchi and repeat until they are a light brown and crispy.
  • Add in spinach and stir until it is all wilted.
  • Add in garlic powder, Italian seasoning, a pinch of red pepper flakes and marinara sauce and toss until combined.
  • Sprinkle with cheese and cover for 3-5 amount of minutes, or until the cheese and sauce is hot and bubbly.
  • Serve immediately.

Notes

Air-fryer instructions to cook the gnocchi:
Pre-heat Air-fryer to 400ºF
Partially defrost the gnocchi, about 2 minutes in the microwave, making sure to break apart any gnocchi stuck together.
Spray the air-fryer basket with avocado spray.
Lay 1/2 the gnocchi from one bag inside the basket and spray it once more.
Cook for 12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Repeat with the remaining bag.
Oven Directions:
Preheat oven to 425ºF and line a baking sheet with parchment paper
Place defrosted gnocchi on the baking sheet and spray with avocado oil spray or cooking spray of choice. Toss to coat.
Bake for 20 minutes, flip, and bake for an additional 20 minutes until the gnocchi is golden brown and crispy on the outside.