Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious snack or side dish, you have to try this Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi recipe! It’s one of my absolute favorites because it’s so easy to whip up and takes less than 15 minutes from start to finish. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight dinner or a family gathering, these little pillows of goodness are sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, they come out perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining fluffy on the inside—what’s not to love?

This recipe is versatile enough to fit any occasion. You can enjoy them as an appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce, as a delightful side dish paired with your main course, or even tossed into a salad for some extra crunch. Trust me, once you make them, you’ll want to keep coming back for more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for those busy nights.
• Crispy perfection: Achieve that golden crunch without deep frying.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will devour these delicious bites.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy them as an appetizer, snack, or side dish.
• Healthy choice: Made with simple ingredients that pack flavor without guilt.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather what we need for the crispiest air fryer gnocchi!

• 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

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Try different gnocchi types: Use cauliflower or sweet potato gnocchi for a unique twist.
• Add herbs and spices: Sprinkle in Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for added flavor.
• Make it cheesy: Toss in some shredded mozzarella or another cheese before air frying for an even cheesier treat.
• Serve with dips: Pair with marinara sauce, pesto, or garlic aioli for an extra layer of deliciousness.

How to Make Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Start by preheating your air fryer to 390°F. This step is crucial because it ensures that the gnocchi cook evenly and achieve that wonderful crispy texture we all love.

Step 2: Prepare the Gnocchi

In a large mixing bowl, toss the gnocchi with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and parmesan cheese. If you’re using frozen gnocchi, remember not to thaw it! Coating them well helps create that crunchy exterior when they cook.

Step 3: Arrange in the Basket

Carefully add the seasoned gnocchi to your preheated air fryer basket. Try not to overcrowd them; leaving space allows hot air to circulate properly and makes sure each piece gets nice and crispy.

Step 4: Air Fry Until Golden Brown

For shelf-stable and refrigerated gnocchi, air fry at 390°F for about 11-14 minutes. If you’re using frozen gnocchi, increase the cooking time to around 13-16 minutes. Be sure to shake the basket every few minutes—this little trick helps ensure they turn golden on all sides without burning.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once they’re beautifully golden brown and crispy on the outside (but fluffy inside), take them out and enjoy immediately! Garnish with extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired. These are perfect as a side dish with your favorite main course or enjoyed straight from the basket as an irresistible snack!

Pro Tips for Making Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi

Creating the crispiest air fryer gnocchi is a breeze with a few simple tips to keep in mind!

• Choose the right gnocchi: Opt for high-quality potato, cauliflower, or sweet potato gnocchi. Fresh or frozen varieties can yield different textures, and using shelf-stable gnocchi can produce an exceptional crispness.

• Don’t overcrowd the basket: Airflow is essential for achieving that perfect crunch. Make sure to spread the gnocchi out in a single layer, allowing hot air to circulate freely around each piece.

• Shake it up: Remember to shake the basket every 4 to 5 minutes. This ensures even cooking and browning, so each gnocchi gets its fair share of crispy goodness.

• Adjust oil to your preference: While olive oil helps achieve crispiness, you can adjust the amount according to your taste. A light coating is usually sufficient, but adding more can enhance flavor without compromising texture.

• Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to mix in additional herbs or spices! Garlic powder pairs beautifully, but you might also try Italian seasoning or smoked paprika for a fun twist.

How to Serve Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi

Serving your air fryer gnocchi can be just as delightful as making them! Here are some fun ideas for presentation and pairing.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley adds color and a burst of freshness that brightens the dish.
• Extra parmesan cheese: Grate some fresh parmesan on top just before serving for an added layer of creamy flavor.
• Olive oil drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality extra-virgin olive oil enhances both flavor and richness.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the gnocchi while adding a refreshing crunch.
• Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots provide a delicious contrast in texture and a healthy balance to your meal.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread on the side is perfect for scooping up leftover sauce from dipping—plus, who doesn’t love garlic bread?
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli drizzled with lemon juice adds nutrients and balances out the dish’s richness without overpowering it.

With these tips and serving suggestions in hand, you’re all set to enjoy an incredibly satisfying dish of crispy air fryer gnocchi. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and enjoy the deliciousness throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the gnocchi to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy within 3 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• Arrange cooked gnocchi in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Use within 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• Preheat your air fryer to 390°F.
• Place frozen or refrigerated gnocchi in the basket (no need to thaw).
• Air fry for 5-7 minutes, shaking halfway through, until heated through and crispy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making the crispiest air fryer gnocchi:

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Absolutely! The focus keyphrase, Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi, includes using frozen varieties. Just remember not to thaw them before cooking; they will crisp up beautifully!

How do I get my air fryer gnocchi extra crispy?

For the crispiest air fryer gnocchi, ensure they are not overcrowded in the basket. Shaking them every few minutes allows for even cooking and maximum crispiness.

Can I add spices or other ingredients to this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to get creative by adding your favorite spices or herbs. Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, or even nutritional yeast can elevate your dish.

What’s the best way to serve air fryer gnocchi?

Serve your crispy gnocchi as an appetizer with marinara sauce or pesto. They also pair wonderfully as a side dish with salads or main courses!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! The Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer for quick snacks or sides during busy weeks.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi! They are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. Whether you serve them as a snack, side dish, or appetizer, they are sure to impress everyone at your table. Enjoy every crispy bite, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!