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Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipe


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4.1 from 9 reviews

  • Author: Molly
  • Total Time: 15-21 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This recipe delivers the crispiest air fryer gnocchi, perfect as a quick and delicious side dish or appetizer. Whether using shelf-stable, refrigerated, or frozen gnocchi, the air fryer ensures a golden and crispy exterior with minimal oil, making it a healthier alternative to pan-frying. Seasoned simply with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and parmesan, these gnocchi bites are ready in just 15 minutes and versatile enough to pair with your favorite sauces or salads.


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

  1. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) and lightly grease the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Season Gnocchi: In a large mixing bowl, toss the gnocchi with extra-virgin olive oil, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and freshly grated parmesan cheese. If using frozen gnocchi, do not thaw it before cooking.
  3. Arrange Gnocchi: Place the seasoned gnocchi in the preheated air fryer basket in a single layer, avoiding overlapping to ensure maximum crispiness.
  4. Air Fry Shelf-Stable/Refrigerated Gnocchi: Cook at 390°F for 11 to 14 minutes, shaking the basket every 4 to 5 minutes to promote even browning. The gnocchi is ready when the outside is golden and crispy but not burnt.
  5. Air Fry Frozen Gnocchi: Cook at 390°F for 13 to 16 minutes, shaking the basket every 4 to 5 minutes. Frozen gnocchi takes slightly longer, but should also be golden and crispy on the outside when done.
  6. Serve: Enjoy immediately, garnished with extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired. Serve as a side dish, appetizer with marinara or pesto sauces, or use as crispy croutons on salads.

Notes

  • Do not thaw frozen gnocchi before air frying to maintain texture and crispiness.
  • Shaking or stirring the basket halfway through cooking ensures evenly browned gnocchi.
  • Adjust cooking time based on your air fryer’s wattage and quantity of gnocchi.
  • Use olive oil spray for lighter coating and better crispiness without excess oil.
  • Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra flavor enhancement.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10-16 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: Italian