introduction
This simple recipe makes super crispy gnocchi in the air fryer. It uses store-bought gnocchi (fresh, shelf-stable, or frozen), a little oil, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Parmesan. It cooks fast and comes out golden and crunchy on the outside, soft inside. If you like quick air fryer meals, check these quick air fryer dinner ideas for more simple meals.
why make this recipe
This recipe gives you crunchy gnocchi without frying in oil. It is fast, low fuss, and works with different gnocchi types (regular, cauliflower, or sweet potato). Make it as a snack, side, or topping. It pairs well with many mains, including simple pan or air fryer mains like some air fryer chicken recipes.
how to make Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi
Preheat and toss, then air fry. Keep pieces in one layer so they crisp well. For frozen gnocchi, do not thaw — cook straight from frozen. Use high heat and shake the basket every few minutes for even color.
You can use the same high-heat approach used for other air fryer sides like air fryer baked potatoes to get a nice outer crunch.
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
Directions :
- 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 the rest of the ingredients. If using frozen gnocchi, DO NOT thaw it.
- Add seasoned gnocchi to the preheated basket. Try to avoid overlapping because they won’t get as crispy.
- Shelf-Stable & Refrigerated Gnocchi: Air fry at 390°F for 11 – 14 minutes, shaking the basket every 4 to 5 minutes, so they are perfectly golden on all sides. The gnocchi is done when the outsides are golden (not burned) and crispy.
- Frozen Gnocchi: Air fry at 390°F for 13 – 16 minutes, shaking the basket every 4 to 5 minutes, so they are perfectly golden on all sides. Frozen gnocchi takes a little bit longer to air fry, but the gnocchi should still be done when the outsides are golden (not burned) and crispy.
- Enjoy immediately. Garnish with extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve as a side with your favorite main dish, as an appetizer with marinara sauce or pesto for dipping, or add as a “crouton” on your favorite salad.
how to serve Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi
Serve hot right after cooking so the outside stays crispy. Try them:
- As an appetizer with marinara, pesto, or garlic butter for dipping.
- As a side to grilled or roasted meats, or with simple greens. For a hearty plate, serve alongside air fryer mains like air fryer beef chops.
- Tossed into a salad as a crunchy topping.
how to store Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi
Let cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes until crisp. Do not microwave if you want to keep them crispy.
tips to make Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi
- Do not overlap pieces in the basket. Crowding makes them steam, not crisp.
- Use a bit more oil for cauliflower or sweet potato gnocchi; they can be drier.
- Shake the basket every 4–5 minutes for even browning.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or Italian seasoning.
- If you like, toss cooked gnocchi with a little warm garlic butter and herbs. For more air fryer tips and meal ideas, see these simple air fryer chicken breast recipes that use similar cooking times and heat.
Serving Ideas (if any)
- Appetizer: serve with marinara or pesto for dipping.
- Side dish: pair with roasted vegetables and a protein.
- Salad topper: add to a Caesar or mixed green salad for crunch.
- Snack: eat warm with grated Parmesan and a squeeze of lemon.
Final Thoughts
This method makes quick, crunchy gnocchi with minimal effort. It works with any store-bought gnocchi and is great when you want a fast, tasty side or snack. Keep the gnocchi in a single layer, use high heat, and serve right away for best crunch.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen gnocchi?
A: Yes. Cook from frozen. Do not thaw. Add 2–3 more minutes to the cooking time.
Q: Will gnocchi get soggy in the air fryer?
A: They can if crowded. Give each piece space and shake the basket so steam can escape.
Q: Can I use butter instead of oil?
A: You can, but oil works better for even browning. Use a light spray or a small amount of melted butter if you prefer flavor.
Q: How do I make them extra cheesy?
A: Sprinkle more freshly grated Parmesan right after cooking so it melts slightly on the hot gnocchi.
Q: Can I add herbs or spices?
A: Yes. Toss with dried Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, or fresh chopped parsley after cooking.
Conclusion
For another take on air fryer gnocchi, you can compare techniques with the recipe at Healthful Blondie’s air fryer gnocchi, which shares helpful tips. If you want a quick 20-minute version and different serving ideas, see the guide at Every Last Bite’s crispy air fryer gnocchi.
Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi
Ingredients
Method
- 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 extra-virgin olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. If using frozen gnocchi, do not thaw.
- Add seasoned gnocchi to the preheated basket in a single layer to ensure they become crispy.
- Air fry shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi at 390°F for 11-14 minutes, shaking the basket every 4-5 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Air fry frozen gnocchi at 390°F for 13-16 minutes, also shaking the basket every 4-5 minutes until done.
- Enjoy immediately, garnished with extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.