Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipes: 5 Crispy Delights to Savor

Name: Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipes: 5 Crispy Delights to Savor
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound gnocchi; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste

By:

Christina R. Jones

November 26, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about air fryer gnocchi! This dish has quickly become my go-to for an easy yet unbelievably satisfying meal. The moment I popped those little pillows of goodness into the air fryer, I was hooked! The transformation is just magical; they come out crispy on the outside and delightfully soft on the inside. It’s like getting the best of both worlds in one dish!

I first discovered this method during a busy week when I needed something quick but still wanted that homemade touch. I tossed the gnocchi in olive oil and a few spices, and within minutes, the air fryer worked its magic. The aroma that filled my kitchen was enough to make my mouth water! I couldn’t believe how simple it was to achieve that perfect texture without all the fuss of boiling water or baking in the oven.

Now, I whip this up on weeknights and feel like a rockstar chef! It’s so easy to customize with different sauces or veggies, and cleanup is a breeze. Trust me, once you try these air fryer gnocchi recipes, you won’t want to go back!

Ingredients List

Getting the right ingredients is key to making the best air fryer gnocchi, and the good news is that they’re super simple! Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound gnocchi: You can use either store-bought or homemade gnocchi for this recipe. If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own!
2 tablespoons olive oil: This is essential for that crispy texture. Feel free to use extra virgin for a richer flavor.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a nice, aromatic kick to the dish. You can also use fresh minced garlic if you prefer!
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A perfect blend of dried herbs that complements the gnocchi beautifully.
Salt & pepper to taste: Don’t skip these! They really enhance the flavors, so season according to your preference.

Make sure you have everything measured out and ready to go before you start. Trust me, it makes the process smoother and way more fun!

How to Prepare Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipes

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making those crispy, golden gnocchi! Trust me, once you master these steps, this dish will become a staple in your kitchen. Here’s the lowdown:

Preheat Your Air Fryer

First things first, preheating your air fryer is crucial! I can’t stress this enough—preheating ensures an even cook and that perfect crispiness we all crave. Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it heat up for about 5 minutes. This little step makes a huge difference, so don’t skip it!

Toss Gnocchi with Seasonings

Once your air fryer is ready to go, it’s time to toss those gnocchi! In a large mixing bowl, combine your gnocchi with the olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. I like to use my hands to mix everything together because it helps ensure that each piece gets coated evenly. Just be gentle—no one wants squished gnocchi! If you find that the mixture looks a bit dry, feel free to drizzle in a touch more olive oil.

Arrange Gnocchi in the Air Fryer

Next, it’s time to arrange the gnocchi in the air fryer basket. Here’s a pro tip: make sure to spread them out in a single layer. Overcrowding the basket can lead to uneven cooking, and we don’t want that! If you have a lot of gnocchi, it’s better to cook them in batches. This way, each piece gets that crispy goodness we’re aiming for!

Cook to Perfection

Now, pop the basket in and set your timer for 10-12 minutes. Halfway through cooking, give the basket a good shake. This helps to turn the gnocchi so they brown evenly on all sides. Keep an eye on them as they cook; you want them to be golden brown and crispy. When they start to puff up and turn a lovely shade of golden, you’ll know they’re almost there!

Serve and Enjoy

Once your gnocchi are perfectly crispy, it’s time to serve! I love pairing them with a simple marinara sauce or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for that extra oomph. You can also toss them with sautéed vegetables or a drizzle of pesto for a fresh twist. The best part? You can customize this dish to fit your mood or what you have on hand. Enjoy every crunchy, flavorful bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 10 minutes of prep time, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights!
Minimal Cleanup: Using the air fryer means fewer pots and pans to wash! Just one bowl for mixing and your air fryer basket—easy peasy!
Crispy Texture: The air fryer works magic on gnocchi, giving them a delightful crunch on the outside while keeping the inside pillowy soft.
Delicious Flavor: With simple seasonings like garlic powder and Italian herbs, each bite bursts with flavor. You can easily customize it to suit your taste!
Versatile Dish: Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or a side, air fryer gnocchi can be paired with various sauces, veggies, or proteins for endless possibilities!

Tips for Success

Alright, my fellow gnocchi enthusiasts, here are my top tips to ensure your air fryer gnocchi turns out absolutely perfect every single time! With just a few tweaks and tricks, you’ll be a gnocchi guru in no time.

Adjusting Cooking Times

Cooking times can vary based on the brand and model of your air fryer, so keep an eye on your gnocchi as they cook. If you like them extra crispy, don’t hesitate to add a couple of minutes to the cooking time. Just remember to shake the basket halfway through to ensure even browning. If you’re using fresh gnocchi instead of frozen, they may cook a bit quicker, so start checking around the 8-minute mark.

Experimenting with Flavors

Don’t be afraid to get creative with seasonings! While garlic powder and Italian seasoning are fantastic, you can easily swap in your favorites. Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smokiness, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick of heat. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can also elevate the flavors—just chop them finely and toss them in with the gnocchi.

Achieving the Best Texture

For that unbeatable crispy texture, make sure to coat the gnocchi evenly with olive oil and seasonings. If you find they stick together, give them a gentle shake in the bowl before transferring them to the air fryer. If you want an even crunchier finish, consider sprinkling a bit of cornstarch over the gnocchi before tossing them. This little trick adds to the crisp factor without compromising the delicious flavor!

Don’t Forget the Dipping Sauces

Pair your crispy gnocchi with a fabulous dipping sauce to take it over the top! A simple garlic aioli or a zesty marinara can elevate your dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a homemade spicy ranch or a creamy feta dip. The right sauce can really complement the crispy texture and add a whole new layer of deliciousness!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to making the best air fryer gnocchi around! Happy cooking, and enjoy every crispy, flavorful bite!

Nutritional Information Section

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of things! While I always believe that cooking is about enjoying the food you love, it’s nice to have a rough idea of what you’re eating. Here’s an estimated breakdown for one serving of air fryer gnocchi:

Calories: 300
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 8g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 200mg
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keep in mind, these figures are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you use. It’s always a good idea to check the labels if you’re keeping an eye on your dietary intake. But honestly, with these delicious air fryer gnocchi, I think the joy of cooking and eating should take center stage! Enjoy every bite!

FAQ Section

Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of frozen?

Absolutely! You can use fresh gnocchi for this recipe, and it’ll still be delicious! Just keep in mind that fresh gnocchi cooks a bit quicker than frozen. I recommend starting to check for doneness around the 8-minute mark instead of the usual 10-12 minutes. They should puff up and turn golden brown when they’re ready. Enjoy that delightful texture!

What sauces pair well with air fryer gnocchi?

Oh, the sauce possibilities are endless! Here are some of my favorites:

Marinara Sauce: A classic, rich tomato sauce that complements the gnocchi beautifully.
Alfredo Sauce: Creamy and dreamy, it adds a luxurious touch to your gnocchi.
Pesto: Fresh basil pesto brings a vibrant flavor that pairs perfectly with the crispy gnocchi.
Garlic Aioli: If you’re looking for a nice kick, this creamy dip is a fantastic choice.
Brown Butter Sage Sauce: This one’s a little fancier but oh-so-delicious, giving the dish a nutty flavor!

Feel free to get creative and mix and match based on your mood or what you have on hand!

Can I add vegetables to the air fryer with the gnocchi?

Yes, you can definitely add vegetables to the air fryer along with your gnocchi! Just make sure to choose veggies that cook at a similar rate. Some great options include:

Bell Peppers: Sweet and colorful, they add a nice crunch.
Zucchini: Sliced or cubed, zucchini cooks beautifully and adds a fresh taste.
Cherry Tomatoes: These burst with flavor and pair wonderfully with gnocchi.

When adding vegetables, chop them into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. You may want to adjust the cooking time slightly; check on everything around the 8-minute mark to see if the veggies need a little more time to soften up. Enjoy the extra flavor and nutrition!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made a batch of those delicious air fryer gnocchi, and now you’ve got leftovers? No problem! Storing them properly ensures you can enjoy that crispy goodness again later. Here’s how to do it right:

First, let your gnocchi cool completely before storing them. This helps prevent any moisture from building up in the container, which can make them soggy. Once they’ve cooled, transfer them to an airtight container. I usually like to use glass containers since they’re durable and don’t retain odors. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days.

If you want to store them for a longer time, consider freezing them! Just spread the cooked gnocchi in a single layer on a baking sheet and pop them in the freezer for about an hour. Once they’re frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. Just make sure to label your container with the date so you don’t forget!

Now, when it’s time to reheat, the air fryer is your best friend! Preheat your air fryer to about 375°F (190°C). Toss the gnocchi in a little drizzle of olive oil to help revive their crispy texture. Place them in the basket in a single layer and heat for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re warmed through and have that delightful crunch back!

If you’re in a pinch and don’t have the air fryer handy, you can also reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Just spread them out on a baking sheet, and you’ll get a nice finish, although it might not be quite as crispy as the air fryer method.

With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your air fryer gnocchi just as deliciously as the first time around!