Summer Skillet Gnocchi Recipe with Grilled Corn and Burrata: A Flavorful One-Pan Wonder

Summer is the perfect time for vibrant, fresh, and effortless meals that bring people together. If you’re looking for a show-stopping dish that’s quick, delicious, and bursting with seasonal flavors, this Summer Skillet Gnocchi with Grilled Corn and Burrata is the answer.

This one-pan wonder combines pillowy gnocchi, smoky grilled corn, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy burrata cheese for a meal that’s as visually stunning as it is mouthwatering. Whether you’re hosting a backyard dinner party or simply craving a gourmet weeknight meal, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

In this post, we’ll walk you through:

• Why this recipe works
• Step-by-step instructions
• Expert tips for perfect gnocchi
• Variations and substitutions
• Serving suggestions
• Nutritional insights

Let’s dive in!

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Why You’ll Love This Summer Skillet Gnocchi Recipe

✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in under an hour with minimal cleanup.
✅ One-Pan Wonder – Cooked in a single skillet for convenience.
✅ Bursting with Summer Flavors – Sweet corn, blistered tomatoes, and fresh basil.
✅ Restaurant-Quality at Home – Creamy burrata makes it feel luxurious.
✅ Versatile – Great for weeknights, dinner parties, or meal prep.

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Ingredients for Summer Skillet Gnocchi

Here’s what you’ll need (full measurements in the recipe card below):

• 4 ears of corn, shucked – Grilled for smoky sweetness.
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided – For richness and sautéing.
• 3 cups cherry tomatoes – Blistered for a burst of flavor.
• 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil – For roasting the tomatoes.
• Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper – To taste.
• 1 lb store-bought gnocchi – Pillowy and tender.
• 1 red onion, sliced – Adds a touch of sweetness.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced – For aromatic depth.
• 4 oz arugula – Adds a peppery bite.
• Crushed red pepper flakes – For a hint of heat.
• Grated Parmesan cheese – Salty, nutty finish.
• Burrata cheese – Creamy, decadent topping.
• Fresh basil leaves – For a bright, herbal touch.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Grill the Corn

• Preheat the grill or a grill pan over high heat.
• Brush each ear of corn with ½ tbsp melted butter.
• Grill until charred and tender (5-7 minutes), then cut kernels off the cob.

2. Char the Tomatoes

• Heat a cast-iron skillet on the grill or stovetop.
• Toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
• Sauté until blistered and slightly charred (about 4 minutes). Set aside.

3. Cook the Gnocchi

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add gnocchi and cook until they float (4-5 minutes). Drain.

4. Sauté the Aromatics

• In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
• Add sliced red onion and sauté until translucent (4 minutes).
• Stir in minced garlic, gnocchi, grilled corn, and tomatoes. Cook until fragrant (2 minutes).

5. Wilt the Arugula

• Add arugula and cook until just wilted (3 minutes).

6. Add the Finishing Touches

• Remove from heat and top with:
  • Crushed red pepper flakes
  • Grated Parmesan
  • Fresh burrata (torn into pieces)
  • Basil leaves

Serve immediately while warm and gooey!

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Expert Tips for the Best Skillet Gnocchi

🔥 For Extra Smoky Flavor – Grill the onions and tomatoes alongside the corn.
🧀 Burrata Substitutes – Fresh mozzarella or ricotta work in a pinch.
🌶 Spice It Up – Add diced jalapeños or chili oil for extra heat.
🍋 Brighten the Dish – A squeeze of lemon juice adds freshness.
🥓 Make It Heartier – Crispy pancetta or prosciutto adds a salty crunch.

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Variations & Substitutions

Vegetarian Option

• Already vegetarian! Just ensure Parmesan is vegetarian-friendly.

Vegan Option

• Replace butter with olive oil or vegan butter.
• Skip the burrata and use cashew cream or vegan mozzarella.

Gluten-Free Option

• Use gluten-free gnocchi (available at most grocery stores).

Protein Add-Ins

• Grilled shrimp, chicken, or sausage make it a complete meal.

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The Magic of One-Pan Meals – Why This Summer Skillet Gnocchi Recipe Works

In today’s fast-paced world, the appeal of one-pan meals is undeniable. Fewer dishes, less cleanup, and maximum flavor—what’s not to love? This Summer Skillet Gnocchi with Grilled Corn and Burrata is the epitome of a perfect one-pan dish, combining convenience with gourmet taste. Here’s why this recipe is a must-try:

1. Effortless Cooking with Minimal Cleanup

One of the biggest advantages of skillet meals is that they require just one cooking vessel—in this case, a trusty cast-iron skillet. From grilling the corn to sautéing the aromatics and wilting the arugula, everything happens in the same pan. This means:

• No piles of dishes cluttering your sink.
• Faster prep and cooking time—ideal for busy weeknights.
• Better flavor development as ingredients meld together in one pan.

2. Perfectly Balanced Flavors & Textures

A great dish should excite the palate with a mix of flavors and textures. This recipe nails it with:

• Smoky sweetness from grilled corn (a summer staple).
• Juicy bursts from blistered cherry tomatoes.
• Creamy richness from burrata cheese (the star of the show).
• Peppery freshness from arugula.
• A touch of heat from red pepper flakes.

The contrast between the crispy-edged gnocchi, tender vegetables, and gooey burrata makes every bite dynamic.

3. Seasonal Ingredients at Their Peak

Summer cooking is all about fresh, vibrant produce, and this dish highlights the best of the season:

• Corn – Grilling enhances its natural sweetness.
• Cherry tomatoes – Quick charring intensifies their flavor.
• Basil & arugula – Fresh herbs add brightness.

Using in-season ingredients means better taste, better nutrition, and often, better prices at the market.

4. Customizable for Different Diets

This recipe is naturally vegetarian, but it’s easy to adapt for other dietary needs:

• Vegan? Swap butter for olive oil and skip the cheese (or use a plant-based burrata).
• Gluten-free? Use gluten-free gnocchi.
• Need more protein? Add grilled shrimp, chicken, or crispy pancetta.

5. Impressive Yet Approachable

While this dish looks restaurant-worthy, it’s surprisingly simple to make. The key steps—grilling the corn, blistering the tomatoes, and tossing everything together—are foolproof. Even beginner cooks can pull it off with confidence.

Final Thought: One-pan meals like this Summer Skillet Gnocchi prove that delicious, high-quality food doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this recipe delivers on flavor, convenience, and seasonal appeal.

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 Mastering Gnocchi – Tips for the Perfect Texture

Gnocchi—those delightful pillowy potato dumplings—are the heart of this dish. But cooking them just right can be tricky. Here’s how to ensure your gnocchi turns out perfectly tender, not mushy or gummy:

1. Choosing the Right Gnocchi

• Store-bought vs. homemade: While homemade gnocchi can be rewarding, high-quality store-bought versions (like DeLallo or Trader Joe’s) work beautifully.
• Check the ingredients: Look for gnocchi made with potato flour and minimal additives for the best texture.

2. Boiling Gnocchi Like a Pro

• Use plenty of salted water (like pasta) to prevent sticking.
• Wait for a rolling boil before adding gnocchi.
• Don’t overcrowd the pot—cook in batches if needed.
• They’re done when they float (usually 2-4 minutes). Overcooking = mush!

3. Achieving a Crispy Exterior

For extra texture, try these tricks:

• Pan-fry after boiling: Heat a little butter or oil in the skillet and sauté until golden.
• Bake them: Toss boiled gnocchi with oil and roast at 400°F for 10-15 minutes.

4. Avoiding Common Mistakes

• Don’t stir too much while boiling—it can break them apart.
• Don’t skip the salt—gnocchi needs seasoning just like pasta.
• Don’t let them sit too long after draining, or they’ll stick together.

Final Thought: Gnocchi is a versatile, forgiving ingredient once you know the basics. With these tips, you’ll get light, fluffy dumplings every time—whether in this recipe or others!

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 Burrata – The Secret to Luxurious Summer Dishes

No ingredient screams “indulgent summer dining” quite like burrata. This creamy, dreamy cheese takes this gnocchi dish from good to extraordinary. Here’s why burrata deserves a spot in your kitchen:

1. What Is Burrata?

• Origins: An Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream.
• Texture: A firm outer shell with a luscious, creamy center.
• Taste: Mild, milky, and slightly sweet—perfect for pairing with bold flavors.

2. Why It Works in This Recipe

• Creamy contrast to the smoky grilled corn and charred tomatoes.
• Melts beautifully when warmed slightly by the hot gnocchi.
• Visually stunning when torn open at the table.

3. How to Select & Store Burrata

• Buy fresh: Look for “burrata di mozzarella” at Italian markets or specialty grocers.
• Check the liquid: The cheese should be submerged in fresh whey or water (no sour smells).
• Use within 2-3 days for peak freshness.

4. Serving Tips

• Always serve at room temperature (take it out of the fridge 30 minutes early).
• Tear, don’t slice—for that Instagram-worthy cheese pull.
• Drizzle with olive oil and a sprinkle of flaky salt for extra richness.

5. Other Ways to Use Burrata This Summer

• Caprese salads (with heirloom tomatoes and basil).
• Grilled peach & burrata crostini.
• Pasta dishes (like this gnocchi recipe!).

Final Thought: Burrata is a game-changer for summer meals. Its creamy texture and delicate flavor elevate simple dishes into gourmet experiences. Don’t skip it in this recipe—it’s the crowning glory!

What to Serve with Summer Skillet Gnocchi

This dish is hearty on its own, but pair it with:
🍷 Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light Pinot Noir.
🥖 Bread: Garlic bread or a crusty baguette.
🥗 Salad: A simple cucumber and mint salad.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories	Fat	Carbs	Protein	Fiber
420 kcal	18g	52g	14g	5g

Note: Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

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FAQs About Skillet Gnocchi

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prep the grilled corn and blistered tomatoes in advance. Reheat before adding gnocchi and burrata.

Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Absolutely—just boil as directed (no need to thaw).

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

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Final Thoughts

This Summer Skillet Gnocchi with Grilled Corn and Burrata is a celebration of seasonal produce and effortless cooking. With its smoky, creamy, and fresh flavors, it’s destined to become a warm-weather favorite.