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Crispy Air Fryer Gnocchi – Ready in 15 Minutes
If you’ve ever wished gnocchi could be crisp like fries on the outside while staying pillowy and tender inside, this Crispy Air Fryer Gnocchi recipe is about to become your new obsession. Ready in just 15 minutes, this dish delivers maximum texture and flavor with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights, last-minute snacks, or an impressive appetizer that looks far fancier than it actually is.
Air frying gnocchi is one of those kitchen tricks that feels almost magical. Instead of boiling, draining, and saucing, you toss shelf-stable gnocchi with olive oil and seasonings, pop it into the air fryer, and let circulating heat do all the work. The result? Golden, crispy gnocchi with a satisfying crunch and soft, chewy centers—no deep frying required.
This recipe is simple by design, but endlessly customizable. You can keep it classic with Parmesan and herbs, turn it spicy, go cheesy, or serve it with dips and sauces for a crowd-pleasing finger food. Whether you’re new to air frying or a seasoned pro, this dish proves that big flavor doesn’t have to mean big effort.
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Air Fryer Gnocchi
There are plenty of reasons this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your rotation:
First, it’s incredibly fast. From start to finish, you’re looking at about 15 minutes, which makes it ideal for those moments when hunger strikes hard and patience is low.
Second, it’s foolproof. Unlike pan-frying gnocchi, which can stick or burn, the air fryer evenly crisps each piece with very little hands-on time.
Third, it’s versatile. Serve it as a snack, side dish, appetizer, or even a base for a larger meal with added veggies or protein.
And finally, it’s just plain fun to eat. The contrast between crispy exteriors and fluffy interiors hits all the right texture notes.
Ingredients
- Shelf-stable potato gnocchi
- Olive oil
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Garlic powder
- Italian seasoning
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Fresh parsley or basil (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 2–3 minutes.
- Add gnocchi to a mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss until evenly coated.
- Sprinkle garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper over the gnocchi. Toss again to distribute seasoning evenly.
- Place gnocchi in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding for maximum crispiness.
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until gnocchi are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
- Transfer hot gnocchi to a bowl and immediately toss with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve immediately.
Tips for Ultra-Crispy Gnocchi
Use shelf-stable gnocchi rather than fresh or refrigerated. Shelf-stable gnocchi has a lower moisture content, which helps it crisp beautifully in the air fryer.
Don’t overcrowd the basket. Air needs to circulate around each piece for even browning. If necessary, cook in batches.
Shake halfway through cooking. This ensures all sides get exposed to the hot air.
Serve immediately. Like fries, crispy gnocchi is best enjoyed hot and fresh.
Flavor Variations
One of the best things about this air fryer gnocchi recipe is how adaptable it is.
For a spicy version, add chili flakes, smoked paprika, or cayenne pepper.
For cheesy lovers, toss with mozzarella and return to the air fryer for 1–2 minutes until melted.
For a garlic butter twist, finish with melted butter and fresh minced garlic.
For a vegan option, skip the Parmesan and finish with nutritional yeast.
Serving Suggestions
Crispy air fryer gnocchi works beautifully as:
- A snack with marinara, pesto, or garlic aioli
- A side dish for grilled chicken or steak
- A salad topper instead of croutons
- A party appetizer served with dipping sauces
You can even turn it into a full meal by tossing it with roasted vegetables or serving it over a bed of greens.
Fun Fact: Gnocchi Beyond Italy
While gnocchi is often associated with Italian cuisine, variations exist across Europe and beyond. Air frying gnocchi is a modern twist on a centuries-old comfort food, blending tradition with convenience.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3–4 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the texture.
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Air Fryer Gnocchi recipe proves that simple ingredients and smart cooking methods can deliver incredible results. It’s quick, versatile, and endlessly satisfying—exactly the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Crispy Air Fryer Gnocchi
Golden, crispy air fryer gnocchi with a fluffy interior, ready in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss gnocchi with olive oil and seasonings in a bowl.
- Arrange gnocchi in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Remove and toss with Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.
Notes
Serve immediately for best crispiness.
