Simple Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipe
Transform store-bought gnocchi into crispy dumplings with this air fryer gnocchi recipe, At 400°F (200°C). Spread 16 oz (450g) of gnocchi in a single layer, mist with olive oil cooking spray, and season with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even browning. You’ll achieve golden-brown exteriors while maintaining soft, pillowy centers. Pat the gnocchi dry before cooking if they’re wet, and avoid overcrowding the basket for best crispiness. This basic technique opens up countless flavor variations, from truffle-parmesan to spicy garlic.
Overview
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F, spread gnocchi in a single layer, spray with olive oil, and cook for 12-15 minutes.
- Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and prevent sticking.
- Season gnocchi with salt and pepper before cooking, adding optional garlic powder or truffle oil for extra flavor.
- Avoid overcrowding the basket and pat gnocchi dry before air frying for optimal crispiness.
- Store-bought gnocchi (16 oz) yields four servings and transforms into crispy dumplings while maintaining soft centers.
Air Fryer Gnocchi Made Simple
Transform ordinary store-bought gnocchi into irresistibly crispy, golden-brown dumplings using your air fryer. This innovative cooking method delivers perfectly crispy exteriors while maintaining the signature pillowy centers that make gnocchi so beloved. A modern twist on traditional Italian dumplings, this quick and easy preparation method creates versatile bites perfect for appetizers or main courses.
Ingredients
- 16 oz (450g) store-bought gnocchi
- Olive oil cooking spray
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional seasonings (garlic powder, Italian herbs, truffle oil)
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C)
- Spread gnocchi in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overlap
- Spray gnocchi lightly with olive oil cooking spray
- Season with salt and pepper (and optional seasonings if using)
- Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking basket halfway through
- Check for golden-brown exterior and remove when desired crispiness is achieved
Top Tips
- Don’t overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if necessary
- Spray seasonings with oil to help them stick to the gnocchi
- Check doneness at 12 minutes as air fryers can vary
- Pat gnocchi dry before air frying if they seem wet
- Store leftover crispy gnocchi in an airtight container and reheat in air fryer
- Serve immediately for maximum crispiness
Variations
- Truffle Parmesan: Toss with truffle oil and grated Parmesan after cooking
- Spicy Garlic: Add red pepper flakes and garlic powder before cooking
- Herbs de Provence: Season with French herb blend and finish with sea salt
- Sweet Potato Gnocchi: Use store-bought sweet potato variety
- Pesto Topped: Serve with a dollop of fresh pesto sauce
Nutritional Guide
Per serving (4 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Fat | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 42g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Most store-bought gnocchi are vegetarian-friendly. For vegan options, check labels for egg content. Gluten-free varieties available with similar nutritional profiles. One serving provides approximately 15% of daily carbohydrate needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi Directly in the Air Fryer?
You’ll achieve peak crispiness using frozen gnocchi directly in your air fryer. Just adjust cooking time to 12-15 minutes at 400°F, toss with oil and seasoning first for the best texture and results.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Air-Fried Gnocchi?
You’ll want to store your leftover gnocchi in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. When ready, reheat them in your air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Why Did My Gnocchi Stick Together During Cooking?
To prevent your gnocchi from sticking, you’ll need to evenly space them and adjust your temperature to 380°F. Don’t overcrowd the basket, and toss them with 1-2 tablespoons of oil before cooking.
Can Homemade Gnocchi Be Air-Fried the Same Way as Store-Bought?
You’ll need to adjust your approach with homemade gnocchi, as it’s moister than store-bought. Pre-dust with cornstarch and reduce cooking time by 2-3 minutes to achieve similar crispy exterior while maintaining proper texture.
Should I Shake the Basket During Cooking for Even Crispiness?
You’ll need to shake the basket every 3-4 minutes for best results. Without basket shaking, your food won’t achieve consistent crispiness, as pieces touching the basket bottom will brown unevenly during cooking.
Before You Go
You’ve mastered a new method for transforming traditional gnocchi into crispy, golden-brown bites using your air fryer. At 400°F (204°C) for 12-15 minutes with a mid-cook shake, you’ve achieved the ideal balance of tender interior and crunchy exterior. The 1 tablespoon olive oil coating guarantees peak crispiness without deep frying. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 48 hours.
