Easy Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipe : Crispy & Delicious in Minutes
If you're looking for a quick, flavorful snack or a delicious side dish, air fryer gnocchi is your new go-to recipe. Gnocchi, those pillowy little Italian dumplings, are traditionally boiled and served with rich sauces, but when you air fry them, they transform into a crispy, golden treat that's incredibly addictive. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this air fryer gnocchi recipe is not only simple but also incredibly versatile.
The beauty of making gnocchi in the air fryer lies in the texture. While boiled gnocchi can sometimes feel heavy, air-fried gnocchi delivers a perfect balance of crunch on the outside and softness on the inside. The air fryer creates the ideal crispiness without the need for excess oil, making it a healthier alternative to deep frying. Plus, the cooking time is significantly reduced, meaning you can have a batch ready in less than 15 minutes!
This air fryer gnocchi recipe is perfect for anyone who loves Italian cuisine but doesn’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. Whether you’re meal prepping, craving a snack, or looking for a quick side to complement your main dish, air fryer gnocchi is a game-changer. Let’s dive into why you’ll absolutely love making this simple, crispy dish and how easy it is to bring this recipe to life in your kitchen.
Equipment
- Air Fryer: The star of this recipe! An air fryer helps achieve the crispy, golden exterior on the gnocchi without the need for excessive oil. Make sure your air fryer has a basket or tray to allow the gnocchi to cook evenly.
- Mixing Bowl: A medium-sized bowl to toss the gnocchi with olive oil and seasonings before air frying. This helps evenly coat the gnocchi for that perfect crisp.
- Tongs or Spoon: For easy handling of the gnocchi, tongs or a spoon will help place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket and also give them a quick shake halfway through cooking.
- Measuring Spoons: To measure the oil, seasonings, and any optional ingredients (such as Parmesan or herbs) to ensure the perfect balance of flavors.
- Serving Plate: Once your air fryer gnocchi is crispy and golden, transfer it to a serving plate to enjoy immediately!
Ingredients
- 1 pound of store-bought gnocchi
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Parmesan cheese fresh herbs, marinara sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes to ensure it’s nice and hot for the gnocchi.
- Prepare the Gnocchi: If using frozen gnocchi, there’s no need to thaw. Simply add the frozen gnocchi to a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
- Season the Gnocchi: Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper over the gnocchi. Toss well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
- Air Fry the Gnocchi: Place the seasoned gnocchi in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure the gnocchi are not overcrowded, so they cook evenly and get crispy. Air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping.
- Check for Crispiness: After 10-12 minutes, check to see if the gnocchi are golden brown and crispy. If you prefer them extra crispy, add another 1-2 minutes of cook time.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the gnocchi are crispy and golden, remove them from the air fryer and serve immediately. Optionally, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce!
Notes
To make this air fryer gnocchi even more delicious, try adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs like basil or rosemary before air frying for extra flavor. For a richer taste, drizzle with melted butter and garlic after cooking. You can also serve the gnocchi with a tangy marinara sauce or a creamy pesto dip for added depth!