Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi

If you’re looking for a quick and delightful dish that your whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place! The Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi is a game-changer on busy weeknights or for when you have friends over. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up these golden, crispy bites of goodness that are fluffy on the inside. They make for a fantastic appetizer, snack, or side dish, bringing smiles to everyone at the table.

I adore this recipe because it’s not only incredibly simple but also versatile. You can use different types of gnocchi—potato, cauliflower, or sweet potato—making it perfect for various dietary preferences. Whether you need something quick for dinner or a fun snack while binge-watching your favorite shows, this dish fits the bill!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 15 minutes, you can have a delicious dish ready in no time!
• Crispy Perfection: The air fryer makes the gnocchi wonderfully crispy without deep frying.
• Versatile Options: Use frozen, shelf-stable, or refrigerated gnocchi based on what you have on hand.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love these crispy bites! They are perfect for dipping in marinara or pesto.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a large batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to find that this recipe requires simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to make the crispiest air fryer gnocchi!

For the 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 how flexible it is! Feel free to customize it to fit your taste. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add Some Heat: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
• Herb It Up: Toss in some dried Italian herbs like oregano or basil for extra flavor.
• Cheesy Goodness: Mix in different types of cheese like mozzarella or feta before air frying.
• Veggie Boost: Add chopped veggies like bell peppers or spinach into the mix for added nutrition.

How to Make Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Start by preheating your air fryer to 390°F. This step is crucial because it ensures that your gnocchi will cook evenly and become perfectly crispy. While it’s heating up, lightly grease the basket with olive oil spray so nothing sticks!

Step 2: Prepare the Gnocchi Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, toss the gnocchi with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. If you’re using frozen gnocchi, remember not to thaw it beforehand! This mixture will give the gnocchi delicious flavor as they cook.

Step 3: Arrange in the Air Fryer

Carefully add the seasoned gnocchi into the preheated basket. Make sure they’re spread out and avoid overlapping; this way they get nice and crispy all over.

Step 4: Air Fry Until Golden

For shelf-stable and refrigerated gnocchi, air fry at 390°F for about 11-14 minutes. If you’re using frozen gnocchi, set your timer for 13-16 minutes. Remember to shake the basket every 4-5 minutes to ensure even cooking. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden brown and crispy—not burnt!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once done cooking, serve your crispy air fryer gnocchi immediately! Garnish with extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if you’d like. Enjoy them as a side with your favorite main dish or as an irresistible appetizer with marinara sauce or pesto for dipping.

Now you’re ready to impress everyone with this fantastic recipe! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi

Getting your gnocchi just right can be a game-changer for your meal. Here are some helpful tips to ensure you achieve the crispiest results every time!

• Use the right oil: Opt for extra-virgin olive oil, as it not only adds flavor but also helps achieve that golden crispy texture on the outside.

• Don’t overcrowd the basket: Give your gnocchi some space in the air fryer. Overlapping them leads to steaming instead of crisping, diminishing their crunchiness.

• Shake it up: Remember to shake the basket every few minutes during cooking. This action promotes even heat distribution, ensuring that all sides of the gnocchi get that perfect golden finish.

• Check doneness carefully: Aim for a golden hue without burning. Keep an eye on them towards the end of cooking; each air fryer may have slightly different cooking times.

• Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to mix in additional spices or herbs! A pinch of paprika or Italian seasoning can elevate the flavor profile and make your dish even more delightful.

How to Serve Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi

Serving your air fryer gnocchi is an opportunity to get creative! Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or an appetizer for guests, these ideas will make your dish shine.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and fresh flavor that complements the crispy gnocchi perfectly.
• Grated parmesan: A sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan enhances both taste and presentation, making it look restaurant-worthy.
• Red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, red pepper flakes provide a spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the fluffy interior.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Greens Salad: A refreshing salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of gnocchi and adds crunch with fresh vegetables.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus bring vibrant colors and flavors that pair wonderfully with gnocchi.
• Marinara Sauce: Serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping! The tangy flavor of the sauce complements the crispy texture beautifully.
• Garlic Bread: For a comforting touch, garlic bread makes an excellent side that complements any Italian-themed meal. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce!

Enjoy serving your deliciously crispy air fryer gnocchi! Whether as part of a grand meal or a simple snack, they are sure to be a hit.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a large batch and enjoy them throughout the week, making your meals even easier and more delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover gnocchi in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat as needed, ensuring they stay crispy.

Freezing

• Allow cooked gnocchi to cool completely before freezing.
• Spread them out on a baking sheet to prevent sticking, then freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil for extra crispiness.

FAQs

Got questions about the Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi? Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use frozen gnocchi for the Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi?

Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi works perfectly in this recipe. Just remember not to thaw them before air frying; follow the cooking times specified for frozen gnocchi.

How do I get my air fryer gnocchi extra crispy?

To achieve the crispiest texture, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Make sure there’s enough space between each piece of gnocchi to allow hot air to circulate freely, ensuring even cooking and that satisfying crunch!

Can I use different flavors of gnocchi?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different varieties like cauliflower or sweet potato gnocchi. Each type will bring its own unique flavor while still achieving that delightful crispiness.

How long do leftovers last?

Leftover air fryer gnocchi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi as much as I do! It’s such a simple yet rewarding dish that brings joy with every crunchy bite. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your delicious results!