Air Fryer Gnocchi: Easy, Crispy, and Irresistible

This crispy air-fryer gnocchi recipe takes a classic Italian favourite and transforms it into a speedy, golden-bite snack without the need for boiling. Ready in under 15 minutes, it’s perfect as a crunchy side or as a fun twist on a salad topping.

Crispy Air Fryer Gnocchi: The Ultimate 15-Minute Snack Recipe (No Boiling Required)

Forget everything you know about traditional gnocchi and prepare to be amazed. Cooking gnocchi in an air fryer completely revolutionise this Italian classic while limiting the amount of oil you need.

Gone are the days of waiting for water to boil or dealing with soggy dumplings. Using this recipe, you will get perfectly golden bites that are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. All in under 15 minutes!

These air-fryer gnocchi are ideal as a speedy snack, crunchy side, or toppings for salads or buddha bowls.

This recipe serves 4 as a snack/ starter and 2-3 as a side.

Benefits of Cooking Gnocchi in an Air Fryer

• Faster Cooking Time: compared to a conventional oven, an air fryer cooks faster and more evenly, leaving gnocchi soft and fluffy on the inside and crispy on the outside.
• Less Oil: air fryers use rapid hot air circulation to achieve a crispy texture similar to deep frying, but with much less oil. 
• Energy-Efficient: an air fryer uses less energy than an oven, making it a more eco-friendly and energy-efficient appliance.
• Perfect for Small Quantity: no need for a large oven for a small quantity of food.

You can learn more about the benefits of cooking in an air fryer here.

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Gnocchi

Using an air fryer transforms ordinary gnocchi into some irresistibly crispy morsels. No faff or boiling, just instant satisfaction.

• Perfect Texture: the magic of the air fryer lies in its ability to give gnocchi a beautifully crisp, golden shell while keeping the inside tender and soft. Think roasted potatoes or pomme dauphines with an Italian twist and in bite-sized portion.
• Quick and Effortless: simply toss the gnocchi in a little oil and seasoning, pop them in the air fryer, and you’re done. From prep to plate in under 15 minutes.
• No Boiling Necessary: skip the pan and the kettle altogether. You can cook your gnocchi straight from the packet, even if frozen (just adjust the cooking time until you get you desired crispiness).

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Watch How To Make These Crispy Air Fryer Gnocchi

How to Cook Gnocchi in the Air Fryer

Ingredients

You only need a few ingredients for this recipe:

• Gnocchi (I use plain fresh gnocchi, the ones you find in the refrigerated section of the supermarket, but shelf-stable or frozen work well too).
• Olive Oil
• Mixed Italian Herbs
• Garlic Powder
• Salt

Optional extras

• Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast (for a plant-based twist)
• Dipping sauces, pesto or garlic butter

Step 1: Toss The Gnocchi in Oil and Seasonings

Toss the gnocchi in a bowl with oil, Italian herbs and garlic powder.

Step 2: Air-fry The Gnocchi

Cook at 200°C / 400°F in the air fryer for 12 to 15mins, shaking the basket halfway through. Spread the gnocchi in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to ensure maximum crispiness.

Step 3: Serve

Season with salt and serve immediately with dipping sauces if using.

How To Serve Air Fryer Gnocchi

There are endless ways to enjoy these gnocchi. Here are a few of my favourites:

• As a Snack: serve them with salsa, marinara or tomato sauce or alternatively with pesto, garlic butter or ranch dip.
• As a Side Dish: pair them with your favourite protein or roasted vegs
• As a Topping: for a salad or buddha bowl as a crispy and gluten-free alternative to croutons

Storing and Reheating Tips

While these gnocchi are best enjoyed straight away, here is how to enjoy them later:

• Storage: store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: air fry the leftover gnocchi again at 180°C (350°F) for about 5 minutes to warm them up and restore their crispiness. Avoid the microwave as it will make them soft.

FAQ: Air Fryer Gnocchi

I hope you enjoy this crispy air fryer recipe as much as I do. If you do make it, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram!

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