Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi
Everyone loves the comfort of gnocchi, but have you ever had it crispy? That’s right! The air fryer, a kitchen wonder, can transform soft, pillowy gnocchi into deliciously crunchy bites that will make your taste buds sing. Not only is this recipe easy to whip up for a quick weeknight dinner, but it’s also versatile enough to serve as a delightful appetizer or side dish for your favorite meals. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ve got a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
"These gnocchi were the star of our dinner! Crispy on the outside and soft inside – a perfect combination!"
What Makes This Recipe Special
Why do I think you’ll love making this gnocchi at home? For starters, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, taking less than 20 minutes from start to finish—perfect for busy weeknights. You can use shelf-stable, refrigerated, or frozen gnocchi, making it a budget-friendly option that’s easy to keep on hand. Plus, kids and adults alike will love the crispy texture and flavor, especially when paired with marinara or pesto for dipping. Whether it’s a casual family meal or a gathering with friends, this dish can easily take center stage.
How This Recipe Comes Together
This recipe is straightforward and allows you to enjoy the delightful crunch of air-fried gnocchi with minimal effort. Here’s how the magic happens:
- Preheat your air fryer.
- Toss the gnocchi with a few simple ingredients.
- Air fry to crispy perfection while giving the basket a gentle shake.
- Enjoy your golden, crunchy creations without the fuss!
Gather These Items
Before you get started, make sure you have the following ingredients ready:
- 1 lb gnocchi (shelf-stable, refrigerated, or frozen—regular, cauliflower, or sweet potato)
- 1 – 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 – 3 tbsp freshly grated parmesan
Feel free to swap in garlic salt or your favorite herbs to personalize the flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) and lightly grease the basket with olive oil spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the gnocchi with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated. If you’re using frozen gnocchi, make sure not to thaw it.
- Add the seasoned gnocchi to the preheated basket, spreading them out to avoid overlapping (this is crucial for crispiness!).
- For shelf-stable & refrigerated gnocchi: Air fry at 390°F for 11 – 14 minutes, shaking the basket every 4 to 5 minutes for even cooking.
- For frozen gnocchi: Air fry at 390°F for 13 – 16 minutes, also shaking the basket every 4 to 5 minutes.
- The gnocchi should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. Enjoy immediately!
- Garnish with extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
These crispy gnocchi are incredibly versatile! Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dish:
- Serve as a standalone appetizer with marinara sauce or pesto for dipping.
- Pair them with roasted vegetables for a colorful side dish.
- Add them atop a fresh salad for a delightful crunch.
- Use them as a unique crouton alternative in your favorite soup.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll be good for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes to regain that crispy texture.
To freeze, place the cooled, cooked gnocchi in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can last for about a month in the freezer.
Extra Advice
To ensure your gnocchi comes out perfectly crispy, try not to overcrowd the air fryer basket, as this can lead to steaming rather than frying. Shaking the basket at intervals is crucial to achieving that golden color on all sides.
Creative Twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations to elevate your air fryer gnocchi:
- Toss in your favorite dry spices like paprika or Italian seasoning for added flavor.
- Experiment with different cheeses—gruyere or feta can give a delicious twist!
- If you’re feeling extra indulgent, add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a gourmet touch.
Common Questions
How long does it take to cook gnocchi in an air fryer?
Cooking time can vary depending on whether you use shelf-stable, refrigerated, or frozen gnocchi. Generally, it takes about 11-16 minutes at 390°F, with shaking intervals for crispy perfection.
Can I use fresh homemade gnocchi for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that the cooking time might need slight adjustments if they are thicker or softer. Start checking for doneness at the lower end of the time range.
What should I do if I can’t find gnocchi?
If you can’t find traditional gnocchi, consider using alternatives like potato dumplings, or even make a simple pasta dish in your air fryer.
Creating crispy, delicious gnocchi in an air fryer is just a few steps away. This recipe will not only satisfy cravings but also impress anyone lucky enough to share it with you! Enjoy!
Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 lb gnocchi (shelf-stable, refrigerated, or frozen) Can use regular, cauliflower, or sweet potato gnocchi.
- 1-2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil For greasing and tossing with gnocchi.
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2-3 tbsp freshly grated parmesan For garnish, optional.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) and lightly grease the basket with olive oil spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the gnocchi with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated. If using frozen gnocchi, do not thaw it.
Cooking
- Add the seasoned gnocchi to the preheated basket, spreading them out to avoid overlapping.
- For shelf-stable & refrigerated gnocchi: Air fry at 390°F for 11-14 minutes, shaking the basket every 4 to 5 minutes.
- For frozen gnocchi: Air fry at 390°F for 13-16 minutes, shaking the basket every 4 to 5 minutes.
- The gnocchi should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. Enjoy immediately!
- Garnish with extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired.
