Air Fryer Crispy Gnocchi
If you’ve never tried making gnocchi in the air fryer, let me be the one to convince you. It’s shockingly simple, takes almost no effort, and turns out these golden, slightly crispy pillows that are somehow both light and indulgent.
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see our disclaimer.
This is one of those “I didn’t know it could be this easy” recipes. I used store-bought shelf-stable gnocchi, tossed them in a bit of olive oil, and let the air fryer work its magic. No boiling, no fussing. Just crispy, chewy bites ready in about 10 minutes.
You can serve these as a snack, a side, or dress them up for dinner. They’re especially good with a dollop of pesto, a sprinkling of parmesan, or even just dipped in your favorite sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 package shelf-stable gnocchi (you can also use fresh or refrigerated)
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (around 400°F) if your model recommends it.
- Toss the gnocchi with olive oil in a bowl until evenly coated. You don’t need much—just enough to lightly coat each piece.
- Add gnocchi to the air fryer basket in a single layer. Try not to overcrowd so they cook evenly.
- Air fry for 10–14 minutes, shaking halfway through. They’re done when they’re golden brown on the outside and just slightly puffed.
- Serve immediately. Crispy gnocchi are best when eaten hot and fresh out of the fryer.
Optional Add-Ons & Flavor Ideas
- Sprinkle with parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast
- Toss in garlic butter or a bit of truffle oil after cooking
- Add chopped herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley for extra flavor
- Serve with warm marinara, pesto, or spicy mayo for dipping
What to Serve With Crispy Gnocchi
Crispy gnocchi can play several roles: side dish, snack, or even the base of a light meal. Here are some serving ideas:
- Alongside grilled chicken or steak for a quick weeknight dinner
- Tossed with roasted vegetables like zucchini, tomatoes, or squash
- Paired with a simple salad for a lighter lunch
- With a fried egg on top for a comforting, crispy brunch
Air Fryer Crispy Gnocchi
Ingredients
- 1 package shelf-stable gnocchi you can also use fresh or refrigerated
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- salt to taste (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (around 400°F) if your model recommends it.
- Toss the gnocchi with olive oil in a bowl until evenly coated. You don’t need much—just enough to lightly coat each piece.
- Add gnocchi to the air fryer basket in a single layer. Try not to overcrowd so they cook evenly.
- Air fry for 10–14 minutes, shaking halfway through. They’re done when they’re golden brown on the outside and just slightly puffed.
- Serve immediately. Crispy gnocchi are best when eaten hot and fresh out of the fryer.
Notes
- Sprinkle with parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast
- Toss in garlic butter or a bit of truffle oil after cooking
- Add chopped herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley for extra flavor
- Serve with warm marinara, pesto, or spicy mayo for dipping
- Crispy gnocchi can play several roles: side dish, snack, or even the base of a light meal. Here are some serving ideas:
- Alongside grilled chicken or steak for a quick weeknight dinner
- Tossed with roasted vegetables like zucchini, tomatoes, or squash
- Paired with a simple salad for a lighter lunch
- With a fried egg on top for a comforting, crispy brunch
