Air Fryer Gnocchi

I love making Air Fryer Gnocchi when I want something crispy on the outside and soft on the inside with almost no effort. The air fryer transforms shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi into golden, pillowy bites that feel like a cross between roasted potatoes and dumplings. I find it perfect as a snack, side dish, or base for a quick meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I appreciate how quick and simple this method is. I enjoy the crispy texture that develops without boiling the gnocchi first. It’s incredibly versatile and works with many seasonings and sauces. I also like that it requires minimal oil and cleanup.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

16 oz shelf-stable or refrigerated potato gnocchi
1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Directions

1. I preheat my air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes.

2. I place the gnocchi in a bowl and toss it with olive oil, salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika until evenly coated.

3. I arrange the gnocchi in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd it.

4. I cook for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the gnocchi are golden and crispy.

5. I sprinkle with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley while still warm, if I’m using them.

6. I serve immediately for the best texture.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

I sometimes toss the cooked gnocchi in marinara sauce for a quick appetizer. When I want a spicy version, I add red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix. I also enjoy coating them in pesto after air frying. For a sweeter twist, I sprinkle cinnamon sugar over sweet potato gnocchi.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I return them to the air fryer at 375°F for a few minutes to restore crispiness. I avoid microwaving since it softens the texture.

FAQs

Do I need to boil the gnocchi first?

I skip boiling when using shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi, as they cook perfectly in the air fryer.

Can I use frozen gnocchi?

I can cook frozen gnocchi directly in the air fryer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

How do I keep them crispy?

I make sure they’re arranged in a single layer and avoid overcrowding the basket.

What sauces pair well with air fryer gnocchi?

I like serving them with marinara, pesto, garlic butter, or even a creamy Alfredo sauce.

Can I make this without oil?

I can reduce the oil slightly, but a small amount helps them crisp up better.

Conclusion

I find Air Fryer Gnocchi to be one of the easiest and most satisfying ways to enjoy this classic pasta. The crispy exterior and soft center create a delicious contrast that works with so many flavors. It’s a recipe I turn to whenever I want something quick, versatile, and irresistibly crispy.

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