Name: Air Fryer Gnocchi
Prep time: 3 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 (16 oz) package shelf-stable or refrigerated potato gnocchi; 1–2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Optional: ½ teaspoon garlic powder; Optional: ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning or paprika; Optional: 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan (for serving)

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Air Fryer Gnocchi is crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and ready in minutes with no boiling required. I love how tossing gnocchi in the air fryer transforms them into golden little pillows with a satisfying crunch—perfect as a quick snack, appetizer, or side dish. It’s a game-changing way to enjoy gnocchi with almost no effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it takes just one ingredient and turns it into something totally crave-worthy. There’s no need to boil—just toss, season, and air fry. It’s faster than the stovetop, less messy, and gives me perfectly crispy gnocchi every time. Whether I’m dipping them, tossing them in sauce, or enjoying them plain, these little bites are always a hit. Air Fryer Gnocchi

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Shelf-stable or refrigerated potato gnocchi
Olive oil or avocado oil
Salt and black pepper
Optional seasonings: garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, or parmesan

Directions

I preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
In a bowl, I toss the gnocchi with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and any optional spices.
I spread the gnocchi in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
I air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy on the outside.
I serve them hot as-is, or with dipping sauces like marinara, pesto, or garlic aioli.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 2–3 servings and takes about 15 minutes total, including prep and cooking. It’s perfect for quick sides, snacks, or party platters.

Variations

I toss with parmesan and parsley after air frying for a cheesy finish.
I season with chili flakes and lemon zest for a zesty kick.
I toss them in buffalo sauce or garlic butter right after cooking.
I pair with a quick salad or roasted veggies for a light meal.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat and keep them crispy, I pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes at 375°F. Microwaving makes them soft, so I avoid it when I want that crisp texture. Air Fryer Gnocchi

FAQs

Do I need to boil the gnocchi first?

No! That’s the beauty of this recipe. I air fry them straight from the package—no boiling needed.

Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, but I let them thaw slightly or add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time. I make sure to coat them well in oil so they crisp up.

Will this work with homemade gnocchi?

It can, but homemade gnocchi may be more delicate. I chill them first and handle gently to avoid sticking or breaking.

What sauces go well with crispy gnocchi?

Marinara, pesto, garlic aioli, or even a spicy mayo all work great for dipping or tossing.

Can I make these ahead of time?

They’re best fresh, but I can re-crisp leftovers in the air fryer. I don’t recommend air frying them too far in advance or they’ll lose their crunch.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Gnocchi is one of those recipes that’s so simple, it feels like a cheat code. I love how it turns a basic package of gnocchi into something crispy, golden, and completely addictive. Whether I’m snacking, serving them with sauce, or using them as a side, these little bites are always a fast and delicious win.