Name: Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 19 min
Cuisine: Italian
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

Jump to Recipe

If you’ve been searching for a way to turn plain gnocchi into a golden, addictive treat, this is it! The Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi transforms simple store-bought (or homemade) gnocchi into pillowy bites with a delectably crackly exterior — all in under 15 minutes. Whether you’re looking for a quick appetizer, a hearty snack, or a standout side, this easy recipe delivers crunch and flavor in equal measure. Perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous entertaining, the crispiest air fryer gnocchi guarantees applause at your table every single time.

Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe celebrates simplicity, requiring just a handful of pantry staples and a little cheese magic. Every ingredient adds its own must-have spark: gnocchi becomes the irresistible base, olive oil ensures an even, golden crunch, seasonings boost flavor, and parmesan brings the finishing wow.

Gnocchi (1 lb): Whether you reach for shelf-stable, refrigerated, or frozen gnocchi (regular, cauliflower, or sweet potato), each one crisps up beautifully in the air fryer.
Extra-virgin olive oil (1 – 2 tbsp): A drizzle is all you need for glossy gnocchi and a signature crunchy shell.
Garlic powder (½ tsp): Lends savory warmth that brings out the best in every bite.
Salt (½ tsp): Delivers essential seasoning so the flavors truly pop.
Black pepper (½ tsp): Adds just the right amount of kick and complexity.
Freshly grated parmesan (2 – 3 tbsp): Finishes the gnocchi with a salty, golden coating that takes the crunch over the top.

How to Make Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Start by preheating your air fryer to 390°F. This ensures the gnocchi sizzle as soon as they hit the basket, helping you achieve maximum crunch. Lightly spritz or brush the basket with olive oil to prevent any unwanted sticking (and for bonus crispness!).

Step 2: Toss Gnocchi with Goodness

In a big bowl, combine your gnocchi, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and parmesan. Toss everything together until each piece is glistening and coated in flavor. If you’re using frozen gnocchi, don’t thaw them—just toss them in straight from the freezer for the crispiest air fryer gnocchi.

Step 3: Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket

Spread your seasoned gnocchi in a single layer in the basket. It’s tempting to pile them in, but crowded gnocchi will steam, not crisp! A little patience means every bite will be perfectly golden and irresistibly crunchy.

Step 4: Air Fry to Golden Perfection

For shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi, air fry for 11 to 14 minutes at 390°F, giving the basket a shake every 4 to 5 minutes. If you’re working with frozen gnocchi, bump it up to 13 to 16 minutes. Peek at the halfway mark—when all sides are golden, you’ll know you’ve nailed the crispiest air fryer gnocchi.

Step 5: Serve Immediately and Savor

As soon as the gnocchi are crisped to your liking, transfer them out of the basket to prevent overcooking. Top with extra parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy. Now, prepare yourself for some serious snack satisfaction!

How to Serve Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi

Garnishes

Shower your pile of gnocchi with freshly grated parmesan for extra decadence, or toss on a handful of chopped parsley for brightness. A pinch of red pepper flakes will wake up anyone who loves a little heat. For an Italian touch, try a drizzle of good olive oil or a grating of lemon zest—unforgettable!

Side Dishes

Crispiest air fryer gnocchi are magic next to anything saucy. Spoon them beside chicken parmesan, grilled steak, or a lemony roasted salmon. They’re also great perched on top of a big, fresh salad—consider them upgraded croutons with mega crunchy appeal!

Creative Ways to Present

Skewer the gnocchi for an appetizer platter, serve in ramekins for a party snack, or set up a dipping trio with marinara, pesto, and spicy aioli. For movie night, pour them into a basket and treat your family to the crispiest “popcorn” ever. The possibilities for serving crispiest air fryer gnocchi are pretty much endless!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you somehow manage not to eat the whole batch at once, store leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They’ll lose a little of their crunch but can easily be revived for round two.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked air fryer gnocchi by first allowing them to cool completely. Then, spread them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a zip-top bag. Reheat straight from frozen for a quick and crispy snack any day of the week.

Reheating

To bring back the magic, pop the refrigerated or frozen gnocchi back in the air fryer at 375°F for 3 to 5 minutes until crispy and warmed through. Skip the microwave—nothing beats that air fryer crunch the second time around!

FAQs

Can I use homemade gnocchi in this recipe?

Yes, you can! Just be sure they’re firm and not too sticky. If they’re extra soft, consider chilling or freezing them for a bit so they hold up in the air fryer—then you’ll still get that signature crispiness.

Do I need to boil the gnocchi first?

No boiling required—one of the best parts about this recipe is that you pop raw or frozen gnocchi straight into the air fryer. It saves so much time and keeps the gnocchi from drying out.

What dipping sauces pair best with crispiest air fryer gnocchi?

Creamy pesto, classic marinara, spicy arrabbiata, or even a garlic aioli are all fabulous partners for these little nuggets. Mix and match to discover your favorite!

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Simply use plant-based gnocchi (they’re widely available) and swap the parmesan for your favorite dairy-free version or a dusting of nutritional yeast. The result is every bit as crunchy and delicious.

What’s the secret to the crispiest air fryer gnocchi?

Spacing the gnocchi in a single layer and shaking the basket during cooking makes all the difference. That way, each piece gets direct heat and air circulation for ultra crispy edges without any sogginess.

Final Thoughts

You’re going to love just how fast, easy, and irresistible this crispiest air fryer gnocchi is—one bite, and you’ll understand the hype! Give it a try for your next snack attack, cozy dinner, or appetizer night. Trust me, your air fryer just found its new favorite recipe.

Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 16 reviews

Author: Olivia
Total Time: 19 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Learn how to make the crispiest air fryer gnocchi with this easy recipe. Perfectly golden and crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, these air-fried gnocchi make a delicious appetizer or side dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients for Crispy Air Fryer Gnocchi:

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

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the air fryer to 390°F and lightly grease the basket with olive oil spray.
Toss Gnocchi: In a large mixing bowl, toss the gnocchi with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and parmesan.
Air Fry: Add the seasoned gnocchi to the preheated basket without overlapping. Air fry based on the type of gnocchi being used.
Stelf-Stable & Refrigerated Gnocchi: Air fry at 390°F for 11 – 14 minutes, shaking every 4 to 5 minutes until golden and crispy.
Frozen Gnocchi: Air fry at 390°F for 13 – 16 minutes, shaking every 4 to 5 minutes until golden and crispy.
Serve: Garnish with parmesan and parsley. Enjoy as a side, appetizer, or salad topping.