If you crave a snack or side that’s bursting with golden, crunchy goodness, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipe. This dish takes simple gnocchi and transforms it into perfectly crispy, flavorful bites using the magic of your air fryer. Each pillow-soft morsel gets beautifully crisped on the outside while staying tender on the inside, making it a versatile and irresistible treat. Whether you’re new to gnocchi or a longtime fan, this Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipe will quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes for a quick, satisfying dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipe is a breeze because the ingredient list is simple but mighty. Each component plays its role in bringing out the best flavor, texture, and color in the final dish, proving that sometimes less is definitely more.
- 1 lb gnocchi: Choose shelf-stable, refrigerated, or frozen gnocchi (regular, cauliflower, or sweet potato) for your preferred flavor base and texture.
- 1 – 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps achieve that signature crispness without frying in oil.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Provides a subtle, savory boost that wakes up the gnocchi’s flavor.
- ½ tsp salt: Essential for seasoning to bring out the natural deliciousness of the gnocchi.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Gives just the right amount of warmth and spice to balance the dish.
- 2 – 3 tbsp freshly grated parmesan: Adds a cheesy, nutty finish that enhances the crispy texture wonderfully.
How to Make Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Air Fryer
Start by preheating your air fryer to 390°F, the perfect temperature to get your gnocchi beautifully crisp without drying them out. Lightly grease the air fryer basket with olive oil spray so the gnocchi won’t stick, ensuring each piece cooks evenly and browns nicely.
Step 2: Season and Toss the Gnocchi
In a large mixing bowl, combine your gnocchi with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and freshly grated parmesan. If you’re using frozen gnocchi, no need to thaw it first—air frying frozen gnocchi straight away helps maintain its perfect texture. Toss everything well so each gnocchi piece is evenly coated with the seasoning and oil.
Step 3: Arrange Gnocchi in the Basket Without Overlapping
Carefully transfer the seasoned gnocchi into the preheated air fryer basket in a single layer. Resist the urge to overcrowd or overlap—the key to the Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipe is giving each piece enough space to cook evenly and turn golden all around.
Step 4: Air Fry Until Golden and Crispy
If using shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi, air fry at 390°F for 11 to 14 minutes, shaking the basket every 4 to 5 minutes. For frozen gnocchi, extend the cook time slightly to 13 to 16 minutes, shaking regularly as well. The gnocchi is ready when the outsides are perfectly golden and have that satisfying crunch without burning.
Step 5: Serve Immediately for Maximum Crisp
Once air fried, serve your gnocchi right away to enjoy them at their crispiest. Garnish with extra parmesan and fresh parsley, or get creative with dipping sauces and additions to make this dish truly your own.
How to Serve Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the flavor and presentation of your crispy gnocchi with fresh garnishes like grated parmesan, chopped parsley, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat. These simple touches elevate the dish and add a pop of color and brightness.
Side Dishes
This Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipe is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a crispy side alongside salads, roasted vegetables, or your favorite protein like grilled chicken or steak. It’s also fantastic as an appetizer with a side of marinara sauce or pesto for dipping, introducing fun and flavor to your table.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to get creative? Use the crispy gnocchi as croutons on top of soups or salads for a delightful surprise in every bite. You can also toss them with fresh herbs and olive oil and serve as a crunchy snack at your next party. The possibilities are endless once you master this recipe!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though they rarely last), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days but may lose some of their crispiness over time.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked gnocchi in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a sealed freezer bag. Freeze for up to one month. When ready, reheat them in the air fryer to revive their crunch without sacrificing texture.
Reheating
The best way to reheat your gnocchi is back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 5 minutes. This method restores their golden, crispy exterior much better than a microwave or oven.
FAQs
Can I use frozen gnocchi without thawing?
Absolutely! One of the great things about this Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipe is that frozen gnocchi can go straight into the air fryer without thawing. Just allow a few extra minutes for cooking to ensure they crisp up perfectly.
What if I don’t have parmesan cheese?
No worries! While parmesan adds a lovely nutty flavor, you can substitute with pecorino, nutritional yeast for a vegan option, or simply omit it. The gnocchi will still turn out delicious and crispy.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply choose gluten-free gnocchi varieties, such as those made from cauliflower or sweet potatoes, and follow the recipe as usual for the same Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipe experience.
How do I prevent the gnocchi from sticking to the air fryer basket?
Lightly spraying the basket with olive oil before adding the gnocchi is key to preventing sticking. Also, tossing the gnocchi with oil before cooking helps keep them separate and crisp.
Can I add other seasonings?
Definitely! This recipe is a great base. Feel free to experiment with Italian herbs like rosemary or thyme, smoked paprika, or even a pinch of chili powder to add your own twist.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipe, you’ll be amazed at how simple ingredients and a speedy air fryer technique can create such a crunchy, flavorful favorite. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, snack time, or impressing friends with a fun appetizer. Dive in and enjoy every irresistible bite—you might just find your new obsession!
Print
Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 to 16 minutes depending on gnocchi type
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This recipe delivers the crispiest air-fried gnocchi, perfect for a quick and delicious snack or side dish. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, these gnocchi are tossed in olive oil, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and parmesan for a flavorful finish. They can be made from shelf-stable, refrigerated, or frozen gnocchi varieties including classic potato, cauliflower, or sweet potato types.
Ingredients
Gnocchi
- 1 lb gnocchi (shelf-stable, refrigerated, or frozen regular, cauliflower, or sweet potato)
Seasoning
- 1 – 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 – 3 tbsp freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 390°F and lightly grease the basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking and promote crispiness.
- Prepare the gnocchi: In a large mixing bowl, toss the gnocchi with extra-virgin olive oil, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and freshly grated parmesan. If using frozen gnocchi, do not thaw before cooking.
- Arrange gnocchi in basket: Add the seasoned gnocchi to the preheated air fryer basket, spreading them out in a single layer without overlapping to ensure even crisping.
- Air fry shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi: Cook at 390°F for 11 to 14 minutes, shaking the basket every 4 to 5 minutes to brown all sides evenly. Cook until the gnocchi are golden and crispy on the outside but not burnt.
- Air fry frozen gnocchi: Cook at 390°F for 13 to 16 minutes, shaking the basket every 4 to 5 minutes for even crisping. The cooking time is slightly longer than fresh gnocchi to ensure they cook through and become crispy.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy the crispy gnocchi right away. Garnish with extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired. Serve as a side dish, appetizer with marinara or pesto for dipping, or as a crunchy salad topping.
Notes
- Do not thaw frozen gnocchi before air frying; cooking from frozen yields the best texture.
- Shaking the air fryer basket during cooking ensures even browning and prevents sticking.
- Use extra-virgin olive oil for flavor and crispiness, and spray the basket lightly to prevent sticking.
- Serve immediately for maximum crispiness as gnocchi may soften after sitting.
- Try different types of gnocchi such as cauliflower or sweet potato for varied flavors and dietary options.
