Air Fryer Gnocchi is a simple yet delicious dish that gives the classic Italian potato dumplings a crispy, golden-brown texture on the outside while keeping them soft and pillowy on the inside. Whether served as a side dish or as a main course, this Air Fryer Gnocchi is a quick and easy recipe that’s full of flavor. It’s a healthier, low-fat alternative to traditional fried gnocchi, but it still delivers on taste. Ready in just minutes, it’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a tasty snack.

Necessary Kitchen Equipment

Air fryer
Mixing bowl
Tongs or spatula
Small bowl (for seasoning)
Plate or serving dish

Overview of Ingredients

Gnocchi – Fresh or frozen gnocchi works great for this recipe.
Olive Oil – Helps the gnocchi crisp up beautifully in the air fryer.
Parmesan Cheese – Adds a savory, umami flavor that pairs perfectly with gnocchi.
Garlic Powder – Provides a subtle garlicky note.
Herbs – Dried oregano, thyme, or rosemary work well to season the gnocchi.
Salt and Pepper – To taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.

Prepare the Gnocchi
If you are using fresh gnocchi, you can go straight to the next step. For frozen gnocchi, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand.

Season the Gnocchi
In a mixing bowl, toss 1 pound of gnocchi with 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano (or your favorite herbs), and salt and pepper to taste. Mix until evenly coated.

Air Fry the Gnocchi
Transfer the seasoned gnocchi to the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crisping. The gnocchi should be golden and crispy on the outside.

Add Parmesan
Once the gnocchi is done, remove from the air fryer and immediately toss with 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese while they are still hot. This will melt the cheese and add extra flavor.

Serve
Serve immediately as a side dish, appetizer, or even as a main course with your favorite dipping sauce or a drizzle of extra olive oil.

Recipe Tips

Frozen vs. Fresh Gnocchi: Both frozen and fresh gnocchi can be used for this recipe. Frozen gnocchi works well because it holds its shape and crisps up nicely in the air fryer.
Custom Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add some red pepper flakes for heat, or switch out the herbs for fresh basil or thyme.
Add Veggies: Toss the gnocchi with some sautéed veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini after air frying for a complete meal.

What to Serve with Air Fryer Gnocchi

Air Fryer Gnocchi can be paired with a variety of dishes. Try it with marinara or pesto sauce, or as a side dish with roasted chicken, a fresh salad, or sautéed vegetables. It’s also fantastic with a simple tomato sauce or a creamy Alfredo sauce for a more indulgent meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use gluten-free gnocchi for this recipe?
Yes, gluten-free gnocchi works just as well in the air fryer. Be sure to check the package instructions for any adjustments in cooking time.

Can I use other oils besides olive oil?
Absolutely! You can use vegetable oil, avocado oil, or even melted butter for a slightly different flavor profile.

Do I need to boil the gnocchi before air frying?
No, you do not need to boil the gnocchi before air frying. Air frying the gnocchi directly will give them the crispy texture you’re looking for, while keeping the inside soft and pillowy.

Ingredients

1 lb gnocchi (fresh or frozen)
1-2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (or your preferred herbs)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Toss the gnocchi with olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl until well coated.
Place the gnocchi in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Remove from the air fryer and toss with Parmesan cheese.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

This Air Fryer Gnocchi is a quick, easy, and delicious dish that’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser!