Crispy, pillowy gnocchi, brought to life in the air fryer? Yes, please! This delightful dish brings a unique twist to the traditional Italian staple, making it a perfect addition to weeknight dinners, game-day snacks, or a cozy gathering with friends. Not only is it a breeze to whip up, but it also delivers a satisfyingly crispy exterior while remaining tender inside. Whether you prefer regular, cauliflower, or sweet potato gnocchi, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
What makes these air-fried gnocchi so special is their incredible texture and effortless preparation. Using an air fryer not only cuts down on cooking time but also offers a healthier alternative to deep-frying. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to clean out your pantry with whatever type of gnocchi you have on hand. These crispy bites are budget-friendly and sure to impress even the pickiest eaters.
"I never thought gnocchi could be this crispy and delicious! I made them for game night, and everyone loved them." – Sarah, a satisfied home cook
How to Make Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and flavor. With just a few steps, you can have a plate of crispy gnocchi ready to serve. Gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into this air-frying adventure!
Ingredients
1 lb gnocchi (shelf-stable, refrigerator, 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
Substitution Tips: If you’re out of parmesan, try pecorino cheese or nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly option. For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix!
Directions
- Preheat your air fryer to 390°F, lightly greasing the basket with olive oil spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the gnocchi with extra-virgin olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well-coated. If using frozen gnocchi, don’t thaw it!
- Carefully add the seasoned gnocchi to the preheated basket, making sure not to overlap them for maximum crispiness.
- For shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi, air fry for 11 – 14 minutes, shaking the basket every 4 to 5 minutes for even browning.
- For frozen gnocchi, air fry for 13 – 16 minutes, ensuring to shake every few minutes. The gnocchi will be golden and crispy when done.
- Enjoy immediately, garnished with extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve them as a side, an appetizer with marinara or pesto, or sprinkle them on top of your favorite salad for added crunch.
Serving Suggestions
These crispy gnocchi are incredibly versatile. Serve them alongside your favorite main course, like grilled chicken or a rich tomato sauce. They also make an excellent appetizer for parties—just pair with dips like marinara or homemade pesto. Alternatively, toss them in fresh salads for delightful texture, or sprinkle them over soups for a unique twist.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can also freeze them in a single layer and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. When reheating, put them back in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, consider marinating the gnocchi in herbs before air frying.
- Shake the basket well while cooking; this helps ensure every piece gets that coveted crisp.
- Clean your air fryer after use to maintain its performance and prevent lingering odors.
Variations
Feel free to get creative! Try using different flavors of gnocchi, like spinach or mushroom. You can also add various seasonings such as Italian herbs, lemon zest, or even cheese blends for a gourmet touch. For a spicier version, add chili powder or smoked paprika to the mix.
FAQs
Can I use fresh gnocchi for this recipe?
Yes! Fresh gnocchi can be air-fried, but reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking.
What can I dip these gnocchi in?
Marinara sauce, pesto, or even a homemade garlic aioli pairs beautifully.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free gnocchi, available in many stores, to enjoy this crispy treat without gluten.
Create Air Fryer Recipes
Learn More About Gnocchi Options
Crispy Air Fryer Gnocchi
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful twist on traditional gnocchi, air-fried to perfection for a crispy exterior and tender interior.
Ingredients
- 1 lb gnocchi (shelf-stable, refrigerator, 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
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 390°F, lightly greasing the basket with olive oil spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the gnocchi with extra-virgin olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well-coated.
- Carefully add the seasoned gnocchi to the preheated basket, making sure not to overlap them for maximum crispiness.
- For shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi, air fry for 11 – 14 minutes, shaking the basket every 4 to 5 minutes for even browning.
- For frozen gnocchi, air fry for 13 – 16 minutes, ensuring to shake every few minutes until golden and crispy.
Notes
Garnish with extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve as a side, appetizer, or sprinkle over salads for added crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 20mg