Why Make This Recipe
Crispy air fryer gnocchi is a delicious and easy dish that everyone will love. Whether you are cooking for yourself or your family, these gnocchi give a wonderful crunch while keeping the soft, pillowy texture inside. Plus, using an air fryer makes the cooking process quicker and healthier without all the oil that frying usually requires.
How to Make Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi
Ingredients:
- 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
Directions:
- Preheat your air fryer to 390°F and lightly grease the basket with olive oil spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the gnocchi with the rest of the ingredients. If using frozen gnocchi, DO NOT thaw it.
- Add the seasoned gnocchi to the preheated basket. Try to avoid overlapping them, as this will prevent them from getting crispy.
- For Shelf-Stable & Refrigerated Gnocchi: Air fry at 390°F for 11 – 14 minutes, shaking the basket every 4 to 5 minutes to ensure they are golden on all sides. The gnocchi is ready when the outsides are golden (but not burned) and crispy.
- For Frozen Gnocchi: Air fry at 390°F for 13 – 16 minutes, shaking the basket every 4 to 5 minutes. Frozen gnocchi takes a little longer but should still be golden and crispy when done.
- Enjoy immediately. Garnish with extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve as a side with your favorite main dish, as an appetizer with marinara sauce or pesto for dipping, or add as a “crouton” on your favorite salad.
How to Serve Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi
Crispiest air fryer gnocchi can be served in many ways. You can serve them as a side dish alongside roasted chicken or steak. They make a great appetizer when paired with marinara sauce, pesto, or even a cheese dip for a fun snack. For a unique twist, sprinkle them on top of a salad like croutons for added crunch.
How to Store Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi
If you have any leftovers, it’s best to store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about 2 to 3 days. When you are ready to eat them again, reheat them in the air fryer to regain their crispiness. Just a few minutes at 390°F should do the trick!
Tips to Make Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi
- Lightly greasing the air fryer basket ensures that the gnocchi do not stick and helps them crisp up nicely.
- Make sure to shake the basket often while cooking. This will allow all sides of the gnocchi to get crispy.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket. Cooking in batches can help each piece get its desired crunch.
Variation
You can switch things up by adding different seasonings like paprika, Italian herbs, or even some heat with crushed red pepper. Feel free to experiment with different kinds of cheese on top, such as feta or cheddar, for a unique flavor profile.
FAQs
1. Can I use homemade gnocchi for this recipe?
Yes! You can use homemade gnocchi, and the cooking time will likely be similar. Make sure they are fresh and not too wet for the best results.
2. Is it necessary to use oil for air frying?
While you can reduce the amount of oil, a little oil helps your gnocchi become crispy. It also helps the seasonings stick to the gnocchi.
3. Can I freeze the gnocchi after cooking?
You can freeze leftover gnocchi after they’ve cooled down. However, keep in mind that reheating them in the air fryer will not provide the same freshness as when they are first made.

Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
Main
- 500 g store-bought gnocchi shelf-stable or refrigerated
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp black pepper
Instructions
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a medium bowl, toss the gnocchi with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Transfer the gnocchi to the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- The gnocchi is ready when it's golden brown and crispy. Serve immediately with your favorite sauce or pesto.
