If you’re on the hunt for a quick, delicious treat that balances a wonderfully crispy exterior with a pillowy soft center, this Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s unbelievably simple to prepare yet delivers that satisfying golden crunch every bite should have, making it perfect for busy nights or casual get-togethers when you want a crowd-pleaser without the fuss. Trust me, once you taste these little pillows of potato goodness straight from the air fryer, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed gnocchi any other way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple but quality ingredients is the key to making unforgettable Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipe. Each item plays a crucial role in building flavor, texture, and even a gorgeous golden color that invites you to dig right in.
- 1 pound shelf-stable potato gnocchi: These are perfect for air frying—fluffy inside and able to crisp up beautifully outside without pre-boiling.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds just the right amount of richness and helps the spices stick perfectly to the gnocchi.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a subtle garlicky aroma that wakes up your taste buds.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Gives a gentle savory undertone that complements the garlic without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Essential to bring all the flavors together and enhance the natural potato taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of warmth and a little kick to keep things interesting.
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika: Contributes a smoky hint and gorgeous color that makes the gnocchi visually irresistible.
- Optional grated Parmesan cheese: For an extra savory burst that melts slightly when sprinkled on hot gnocchi.
- Optional chopped fresh parsley: Adds freshness and a pop of color for the perfect finishing touch.
How to Make Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Start by heating your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and give it about three minutes to reach that perfect temperature. This step ensures the gnocchi cooks evenly and crisps up beautifully, creating that irresistible crunchy outside you’re chasing.
Step 2: Toss the Gnocchi with Seasonings
In a large mixing bowl, pour in the gnocchi and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika over them. Use a spatula or your hands to toss everything until each gnocchi piece is coated evenly, which is what guarantees you’ll get bursts of spice and flavor in every bite.
Step 3: Arrange Gnocchi in the Basket
Spread out the gnocchi in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. This arrangement is absolutely critical for crisping because overcrowding the basket leads to steaming instead of frying, and nobody wants soggy gnocchi.
Step 4: Cook Until Golden and Crispy
Air fry the gnocchi for 10 to 12 minutes. Make sure to pause and give the basket a good shake halfway through cooking to encourage even browning on all sides. Once the gnocchi comes out with a golden color and crispy crust, you know it’s ready to eat.
How to Serve Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipe
Garnishes
A quick sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese takes these crispy gnocchi to a whole new level—adding a lush, salty richness that complements the spices perfectly. Throw on some chopped fresh parsley for a hint of green and brightness that balances the richness.
Side Dishes
Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipe pairs famously well with a simple marinara sauce or a vibrant basil pesto for dipping. If you want a full meal, serve alongside a fresh mixed green salad or sautéed vegetables to keep it light but satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the gnocchi in small bowls layered over a bed of arugula or baby spinach, then drizzle with balsamic glaze for a trendy take. You can also turn this dish into a shareable appetizer by stacking them on skewers, alternating with cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls for colorful finger food.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (though they rarely last long), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The gnocchi will stay tasty but will lose some of that original crispiness.
Freezing
While you can freeze cooked gnocchi, it’s best to freeze the uncooked, shelf-stable gnocchi according to package instructions. Cooking from frozen in the air fryer is not recommended as it can cause uneven texture.
Reheating
To bring back that delightful crispness, reheat leftover gnocchi in the air fryer at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 minutes, shaking halfway through. This gives them a fresh-out-of-the-oven crunch that microwave reheating just can’t match.
FAQs
Can I use fresh homemade gnocchi for this air fryer recipe?
Fresh homemade gnocchi tends to be softer and more delicate, so it may not crisp up as well in the air fryer. Shelf-stable gnocchi is ideal because it holds its shape and texture better during air frying.
Do I need to boil the gnocchi before air frying?
No boiling required! One of the best parts about this Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipe is that you can air fry them straight from the package, saving time and creating a perfectly crispy outside with a soft center.
What dipping sauces go well with air-fried gnocchi?
Classic marinara and pesto are my favorites, but you can also explore garlic aioli, spicy arrabbiata, or even a creamy cheese sauce for extra indulgence.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just be sure to pick gluten-free potato gnocchi specifically labeled as such. The rest of the recipe stays exactly the same!
How do I get the gnocchi extra crispy?
Make sure not to overcrowd the basket and shake the gnocchi halfway through cooking. Using a light coating of olive oil and possibly increasing cooking time by a minute or two will also boost crispiness.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch and soft heart of gnocchi made with this Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipe. It’s quick, simple, and delicious—a rare trifecta that makes this dish a go-to whether you’re feeding yourself or a crowd. Give it a try and watch your love for gnocchi grow beyond the pot of boiling water you once knew. Your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Air Fryer Gnocchi recipe offers a quick and easy way to enjoy crispy, golden gnocchi with a soft interior. Tossed in olive oil and seasoned with garlic, onion powders, and paprika, this side dish cooks perfectly in the air fryer, making it a delicious and convenient addition to any meal. Garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a flavorful Italian-inspired treat.
Ingredients
Gnocchi
- 1 pound shelf-stable potato gnocchi
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Garnish (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F and let it preheat for 3 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Toss the gnocchi: In a large bowl, combine the shelf-stable potato gnocchi with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix thoroughly until all pieces are evenly coated.
- Arrange in air fryer basket: Spread the coated gnocchi in a single layer inside the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation and prevent overcrowding.
- Cook the gnocchi: Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to promote even crisping and browning of the gnocchi.
- Serve: Once golden and crispy on the outside, transfer the gnocchi to a serving dish. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use shelf-stable gnocchi for the best texture; avoid boiling them beforehand to maintain a crispy exterior.
- Air frying gnocchi directly from the package yields a perfect balance of crispy outside and soft inside.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauces such as marinara or pesto for added flavor.
