Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipe: A Crispy, Delicious, and Quick Delight

When it comes to easy, versatile, and satisfying meals, gnocchi is a star. With its pillowy soft texture, gnocchi pairs beautifully with a variety of sauces or seasoning blends. If you’re looking for a way to elevate this classic ingredient, the Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipe is your answer. This cooking method transforms store-bought or homemade gnocchi into golden, crispy bites that are soft on the inside and delightfully crunchy on the outside. Whether served as a snack, side dish, or main course, air-fried gnocchi is bound to impress your taste buds.

In this detailed recipe, we’ll walk you through the steps of preparing air fryer gnocchi, including everything you need to know—from preparation to nutrition. So, grab your air fryer and let’s get cooking!

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Recipe Overview

• Cuisines: Italian, Modern
• Course: Appetizer, Side Dish, Main Course
• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: ~250

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Ingredients

To make this Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipe, you’ll need:

Main Ingredients

1. Gnocchi: 1 lb (16 oz) – Use shelf-stable, frozen, or homemade gnocchi.
2. Olive Oil: 2 tbsp – For crisping and flavor.
3. Parmesan Cheese (optional): 2 tbsp – Grated, for topping.
4. Garlic Powder: 1 tsp – Adds savory depth.
5. Italian Seasoning: 1 tsp – For a classic herbaceous touch.
6. Salt and Pepper: To taste.

Optional Add-Ons

• Red Chili Flakes: ½ tsp – For a spicy kick.
• Fresh Herbs (like parsley or basil): For garnish.
• Dipping Sauce: Marinara, pesto, or garlic aioli.

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Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: ~250
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 350mg

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Prep and Cooking Times

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Active Time: 15 minutes
• Resting Time: None required
• Total Time: 20 minutes

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Equipment

1. Air Fryer: Any standard model will work. Adjust timings based on capacity.
2. Mixing Bowl: For tossing gnocchi with oil and seasonings.
3. Tongs or Spatula: For flipping gnocchi halfway through cooking.
4. Serving Dish: To plate your crispy gnocchi.

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer

• Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat for about 3 minutes. This ensures even cooking and crispy results.

Step 2: Prepare the Gnocchi

1. If using frozen gnocchi, there’s no need to boil them. If you prefer a softer center, you can boil them for 2 minutes, then drain and pat dry.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the gnocchi with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat evenly.

Step 3: Air Fry the Gnocchi

1. Place the seasoned gnocchi in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure each piece crisps up nicely.
2. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes. Shake the basket or flip the gnocchi halfway through to promote even browning.
3. The gnocchi are done when they’re golden and crispy on the outside.

Step 4: Add Toppings

• Once cooked, transfer the gnocchi to a serving dish. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, red chili flakes, and fresh herbs if desired.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

• Serve your air-fried gnocchi immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or as a standalone dish. They’re perfect for sharing or enjoying solo!

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Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Gnocchi

1. Avoid Overcrowding: Cook in batches if necessary to ensure crispy results.
2. Season Generously: Gnocchi absorbs flavors well, so don’t skimp on the spices and herbs.
3. Experiment with Sauces: Marinara, garlic butter, or creamy Alfredo are excellent pairing options.

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Why Choose the Air Fryer Method?

The air fryer is a game-changer for preparing gnocchi. Unlike boiling or pan-frying, air-frying requires minimal oil and delivers the perfect balance of crispy and tender textures. It’s also faster, mess-free, and a healthier alternative to deep-frying. Plus, the air fryer ensures even cooking, making it an ideal option for busy weeknight meals or last-minute snacks.

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Variations to Try

1. Cheesy Air Fryer Gnocchi: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese over the gnocchi in the last 2 minutes of cooking.
2. Spicy Gnocchi Bites: Add cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the seasoning mix.
3. Vegan Option: Skip the Parmesan and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy, dairy-free alternative.

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh salad for a light meal.
• Use as a crunchy topping for soups or stews.
• Serve alongside roasted vegetables or grilled proteins like chicken or salmon.

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Conclusion

This Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipe is a quick, delicious, and healthier way to enjoy gnocchi. Perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, the crispy texture and versatile flavors will make it a favorite in your kitchen. With minimal prep time and easy instructions, this dish is approachable for cooks of all skill levels. So, get creative with seasonings and toppings, and savor the delightful crunch of air-fried gnocchi!