Air Fryer Gnocchi

This air fryer gnocchi recipe is as simple as it gets! With just 6 ingredients and 15 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a crispy, golden-brown, and pillowy-soft dish. For the most satisfying flavor, serve it with your favorite pasta sauce and top it with a sprinkle of vegan Parmesan.

When you want something easy to make yet ultra-comforting, gnocchi in the air fryer is the perfect option. And if you love quick, no-fuss meals, try my miso pasta—it’s also ready in 15!

Why I Love This Recipe

This air fryer gnocchi is my go-to for a fuss-free, flavor-packed dinner. You only need gnocchi, oil, a few seasonings, and your favorite pasta sauce (marinara and pesto are my usual picks).

The gnocchi turns out perfectly crisp on the outside while remaining soft and pillowy on the inside. Plus, air frying keeps things light, so it’s great if you’re watching your oil intake or looking for healthier meal alternatives.

Ingredient Notes

You just need 6 simple ingredients for this air fryer gnocchi recipe! Here’s a closer look:

• Gnocchi: These little potato dumplings are soft on the inside and crisp up beautifully in the air fryer. Nowadays, you can find gnocchi in the pasta aisle at most grocery stores, but I find the best place to get them is Mediterranean markets.
• Avocado Oil: A small amount helps achieve that crispy exterior without making the dish too oil-heavy. Use a good-quality avocado oil for the best flavor.
• Nutritional Yeast: Gives the gnocchi a deliciously savory, cheesy, umami-rich taste. Look for nutritional yeast at your local bulk food store or online.
• Garlic Powder: Adds a savory depth of flavor without the hassle of chopping fresh garlic. Plus, it coats the gnocchi evenly and doesn’t burn as easily in the air fryer.
• Salt & Pepper: Pepper adds a bit of spice and warmth, and salt is essential for enhancing the flavor of the gnocchi. A little goes a long way, so season to taste!
• Italian Parsley: To tie everything together and add a pop of color, I like to top my air fryer gnocchi with freshly chopped Italian parsley.

Substitutions

• Gnocchi: For a touch of sweetness and a denser texture, try sweet potato gnocchi. Use a store-bought option or make your own!
• Avocado Oil: Use the same amount of extra-virgin olive oil for a different flavor profile.
• Nutritional Yeast: No nutritional yeast on hand? Try a teaspoon of miso for a similar umami element. You may need to pre-mix the miso with a touch of water to evenly coat the gnocchi.
• Garlic Powder: If you prefer a milder flavor, swap garlic powder for onion powder. It provides a more subtle seasoning without overpowering the dish.
• Parsley: Fresh basil, thyme, oregano, and rosemary also work well with this dish.

How to Make

You won’t believe how quick and easy it is to prepare gnocchi in the air fryer! Just remember my tips and tricks for the best results.

Preparation

Start by preheating your air fryer to 390 degrees Fahrenheit for 3-5 minutes. I always recommend preheating your air fryer to promote quicker, more even cooking. While it’s heating, toss the gnocchi with oil, nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper in a medium mixing bowl.

Cooking

Step 1
Place the seasoned gnocchi in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to prevent them from steaming and becoming soggy (cook the gnocchi in batches if needed!).

Step 2
Air fry the gnocchi for 12 minutes, shaking the basket every 4 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking or burning!

Step 3
Once golden and crispy, remove your air fryer gnocchi from the basket and serve them immediately while they’re still hot. For an extra burst of flavor, top the gnocchi with your favorite pasta sauce and garnish with fresh parsley and vegan Parmesan cheese.

Expert Tip

Two key components in achieving perfectly crispy air fryer gnocchi are the oil layer and proper spacing in the basket. A light oil coating really helps the gnocchi turn golden brown without becoming greasy.

Before cooking, double-check that the gnocchi are not overcrowded so that each one has enough space to crisp up (you don’t want them to steam and turn soggy!). And when you shake the basket, be gentle but thorough to prevent them from tearing or breaking.

Sauce Pairings

Once cooked, give your air fryer gnocchi a fresh, vibrant flavor with homemade dairy-free pesto, marinara, regular tomato sauce, spinach pesto, or red pepper pesto. Or, make it extra indulgent with some cashew alfredo sauce! Experiment with your favorites to customize this dish and make it your own!

Cooking Tips

• Adjust the Time: Every air fryer is slightly different, so keep an eye on the gnocchi as they cook (you may need to increase or decrease the time by 1-2 minutes).
• Pre-Cook the Gnocchi: If you’re worried about the gnocchi not fully cooking, you can par-boil them for 2 minutes before air frying to ensure they’re tender inside.
• Serve Immediately: Gnocchi are best enjoyed right out of the air fryer when they’re at their crispiest! Don’t start cooking them until just before you’re ready to eat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Storing & Reheating

If you have leftover air fryer gnocchi, let them cool completely before storing them.

Fridge
Keep the gnocchi in an airtight container in the fridge. They should last up to 3 days this way.

Freezer
You can freeze the gnocchi in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Don’t worry about thawing—just reheat them straight from frozen.

Reheating
For the best texture, reheat the gnocchi in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 5-7 minutes. This will help them regain their crispiness without drying them out.

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