Heat a 10-inch skillet over medium heat and add 3 tablespoons of the butter until melted.
Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring constantly, about 1 minute until fragrant and lightly golden.
Add the uncooked gnocchi in a single layer and pan-fry, stirring or turning every 2–3 minutes, for 12–15 minutes until golden and crisp on most sides; lower heat if it begins to burn.
Reduce heat to low, add the remaining butter, lemon zest, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper (to taste), cracked pepper, and sea salt, and toss to coat and melt the butter.
Remove the pan from the heat, stir in the Parmesan until combined, let sit a couple minutes to cool slightly, then serve topped with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
