Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi

• Gnocchi: any type potato cauliflower or sweet potato I recommend seeking fresh or high-quality brands for best texture
• Extra-virgin olive oil: adds rich flavor and helps crisp up the outside look for oil with a nice aroma
• Garlic powder: brings deep savory notes make sure it smells fresh in the jar
• Salt and black pepper: simple seasoning each boost overall flavor
• Freshly grated parmesan: gives a salty cheesy finish I always grate my own for maximum melt and taste

• If you want to skip dairy you can use nutritional yeast instead.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Get your air fryer nice and hot at around 390 degrees This ensures a truly crispy exterior from the start Lightly mist the basket so the gnocchi will not stick

Season the Gnocchi:

Combine your chosen gnocchi with olive oil garlic powder salt and black pepper in a big bowl Toss every piece so it is well coated I include parmesan here for extra crispness

Arrange in the Basket:

Lay out the gnocchi in a single layer so every piece crisps equally Overlapping will lead to some soggy spots

Cooking Time for Each Type:

If using shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi air fry at 390 degrees for around 11 to 14 minutes Shake the basket every few minutes I aim for golden but not burnt If using frozen gnocchi set the timer for 13 to 16 minutes and use the same technique Do not thaw them first so they stay fluffy inside

Check Doneness:

Look for a golden brown crispy outside and soft interior Do a taste test if unsure for salt or texture

Serve and Enjoy:

Garnish hot gnocchi with extra parmesan or a sprinkle of parsley Serve with marinara or pesto for dipping or on top of a salad or soup for crunch

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I always reach for grated parmesan because it melts perfectly into crunchy bits on the gnocchi my family remembers the time I swapped in sweet potato gnocchi and it was such a hit that we now rotate through all three types

Storage Tips

Air fryer gnocchi are crispiest right after cooking but you can save extras in an airtight container for up to four days To reheat pop them back in the air fryer at a lower heat for a few minutes instead of microwaving This restores the crunch and keeps them from turning chewy

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use cauliflower or sweet potato gnocchi in place of classic for a lighter or gluten-free twist Nutritional yeast stands in well for parmesan if you need a vegan option Any neutral oil can work in place of olive oil but extra virgin brings a lot of flavor

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Serving Suggestions

Try these as a starter with your favorite red sauce or make them part of a salad as croutons They also work well on top of soup or served alongside grilled chicken for a filling dinner They even shine as a snack straight from the bowl

Cultural Context

Gnocchi has long been a comfort food in Italian kitchens Traditionally boiled to pillowy softness this air fryer twist gives you the same heart but with an irresistible crispy bite It is a clever new way to enjoy an old favorite

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use frozen gnocchi directly?

Yes, frozen gnocchi can go straight into the air fryer without thawing for best results.

→ What varieties of gnocchi work best?

Potato, cauliflower, and sweet potato gnocchi—whether shelf-stable, refrigerated, or frozen—all work well.

→ How do I keep the gnocchi crispy?

Enjoy them immediately after cooking and avoid stacking or covering to maintain crispiness.

→ Can I make this vegan?

Yes, simply omit parmesan and use nutritional yeast for a plant-based option.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best texture.

→ What can I serve alongside?

Pair with marinara or pesto for dipping, top salads as a crunchy crouton, or serve as a side with mains.