If You Love Comfort Food, You’re in for a Treat!
Crispy and tender, gnocchi is a beloved comfort food that transcends cultural boundaries. On busy weeknights, when quick and satisfying meals are a must, air-fried gnocchi shines as a star. Truth be told, the first time I made this crispy air fryer gnocchi, I was amazed by how effortlessly it transformed into a golden, crunchy delight, perfect for dipping or pairing with any main dish. Whether you prefer them as a side, an appetizer, or even a salad topper, these little pillows of joy are sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
What makes this air-fried gnocchi truly special? For starters, it’s incredibly quick to prepare—perfect for those evenings when you’re short on time but still want something delicious. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a meal or snack that’s both kid-approved and adult-friendly, which makes it ideal for family dinners or casual get-togethers. The best part? The crispy exterior pairs beautifully with the soft, pillowy inside, creating a delightful contrast that makes every bite satisfying.
"I made these for a family game night and they were gone in minutes! Everyone loved the crispy texture and cheesy goodness!" – Sarah M.
Step-by-Step Overview
Making the crispiest air fryer gnocchi is a straightforward process that involves a few simple steps. You’ll start by preheating your air fryer, mix the gnocchi with seasonings, and finally, air fry until they achieve that perfect crispiness. Plus, you don’t have to thaw frozen gnocchi! This recipe is versatile and caters to both pantry staples and frozen options, making it a go-to for busy cooks.
Gather These Items
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish:
- 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
If you’re looking to put a unique spin on the flavors, feel free to swap out the olive oil for garlic-infused oil or experiment with different cheese varieties!
Directions to Follow
- Preheat your air fryer to 390°F 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, there’s no need to thaw!
- Place the seasoned gnocchi into the preheated basket in a single layer, avoiding overlap for the crispiest results.
- For shelf-stable and refrigerated gnocchi, air fry at 390°F for 11 – 14 minutes, shaking the basket every 4 to 5 minutes until they are golden on all sides.
- For frozen gnocchi, air fry for 13 – 16 minutes, using the same shaking technique.
- Once they are beautifully golden and crispy, serve immediately. Garnish with extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a burst of flavor.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
The beauty of crispy air fryer gnocchi is how incredibly versatile it is. Serve it as an indulgent side dish with your favorite protein or toss it into a vibrant salad as a crouton alternative—imagine that crispy texture paired with fresh vegetables! For a fun appetizer, pair it with marinara or pesto for dipping. The possibilities are endless!
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have any leftovers—though it’s hard to imagine—you’ll want to store them correctly. Allow the gnocchi to cool down before transferring them into an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes until crispy again. If you want to freeze them, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
Practical Cooking Tips
To make your air fryer gnocchi even better, here are some pro tips:
- Be sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket; this will ensure every piece gets that perfect crispiness!
- Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor; pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt the same way.
- Experiment with spices! Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning can elevate the dish further.
Creative Twists
Feeling adventurous? Try these creative variations to switch things up:
- Add sautéed garlic with fresh herbs for more aromatic flavors.
- Swap the parmesan for a dairy-free cheese alternative for a vegan version.
- Spice things up with a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a kick.
Common Questions
How long does it take to prepare?
From start to finish, this recipe takes about 20-30 minutes!
What other types of gnocchi can I use?
You can use regular, cauliflower, or sweet potato gnocchi. Each type adds a unique twist to the dish!
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prep the gnocchi by seasoning them in advance and storing them in the fridge for a few hours before air frying. Just make sure to keep them covered to prevent drying.
Enjoy your crispy air fryer gnocchi—it’s sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen!
Crispy Air Fryer Gnocchi
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb gnocchi (shelf-stable, refrigerated, or frozen) Regular, cauliflower, or sweet potato variety
- 1 – 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil Can substitute with garlic-infused oil
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 – 3 tbsp freshly grated parmesan Use freshly grated for best flavor
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your air fryer to 390°F 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.
- Place the seasoned gnocchi into the preheated basket in a single layer, avoiding overlap for the crispiest results.
Cooking
- For shelf-stable and refrigerated gnocchi, air fry at 390°F for 11 – 14 minutes, shaking the basket every 4 to 5 minutes until golden.
- For frozen gnocchi, air fry for 13 – 16 minutes, using the same shaking technique.
- Once they are beautifully golden and crispy, serve immediately.
- Garnish with extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a burst of flavor.
