Air Fryer Gnocchi: Crispy Outside, Fluffy Inside in Under 15 Minutes

This Air Fryer Gnocchi recipe is a game-changer. Skip the boiling pot and go straight to golden, crispy perfection in your air fryer! These pillowy potato dumplings turn into irresistible crispy bites with a tender interior—perfect as a quick snack, appetizer, or easy side dish.

No oil-drenched pans, no long prep, and no boiling—just toss, air fry, and enjoy. Whether you’re using store-bought gnocchi or homemade, this method delivers crunch and flavor every single time.

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Ingredients Overview: Simple and Versatile

Shelf-Stable Gnocchi (or Refrigerated)

You can use any type of gnocchi—store-bought shelf-stable, refrigerated, or homemade. Just make sure it’s uncooked. Avoid pre-cooked or boiled gnocchi, which won’t crisp up properly.

Olive Oil or Avocado Oil

A light coating of oil helps the gnocchi crisp evenly. You only need about 1 tablespoon per 16 oz of gnocchi. Avocado oil works well due to its high smoke point.

Seasonings (Optional, but Recommended)

• Salt & Pepper: For basic seasoning

• Garlic Powder or Italian Seasoning: Adds savory depth

• Smoked Paprika or Chili Flakes: For a spicy, smoky finish

• Parmesan (Optional): Toss with cheese right after cooking for extra flavor

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Step-by-Step Instructions: Crispy Gnocchi, No Boiling Required

1. Preheat the Air Fryer

• Set air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for 2–3 minutes.

2. Season the Gnocchi

• In a bowl, toss 16 oz uncooked gnocchi with:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • Salt, pepper, and any seasonings you like

• Make sure each piece is evenly coated.

3. Air Fry

• Add gnocchi to the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding.

• Cook for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

• Gnocchi should be crispy and golden on the outside and soft inside.

4. Serve Immediately

• Enjoy hot and crisp with dipping sauces or tossed in melted butter and herbs.

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Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

Pro Tips

• Don’t Boil First: This method works best with dry, raw gnocchi straight from the package.

• Shake the Basket: At least once or twice during cooking to ensure even browning.

• Serve Fast: Gnocchi is crispiest right after air frying.

Flavor Variations

• Garlic Butter: Toss cooked gnocchi in melted garlic butter and parsley.

• Spicy Snack: Use chili powder and paprika before air frying.

• Lemon & Herb: Finish with lemon zest, thyme, and Parmesan.

• Sweet Version: Toss with cinnamon sugar and butter after air frying for a dessert-style gnocchi.

Sauce Pairings

• Marinara or pizza sauce

• Pesto

• Ranch or garlic aioli

• Brown butter sage

• Spicy honey for a sweet-savory twist

Substitutions

• Oil-Free: Use a spritz of cooking spray or go completely dry—just expect slightly less even browning.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free gnocchi made from rice or chickpea flour.

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Serving Ideas & Occasions

Air fryer gnocchi is incredibly flexible. Serve it as:

• A Crispy Snack: Perfect for movie nights or grazing boards

• An Appetizer: Serve with dipping sauces like marinara or pesto

• A Side Dish: Goes well with grilled chicken, sausage, or roasted veggies

• A Salad Topper: Adds warm crunch to green salads or grain bowls

• Game Day Finger Food: Serve with toothpicks and a flight of dips

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Nutritional & Health Notes

While gnocchi isn’t low-carb, air frying it keeps it lighter than pan-frying or deep-frying.

• Portion-Control Friendly: 1 cup = ~200–250 calories depending on brand

• Low Oil Use: Only 1 tbsp oil needed for an entire batch

• Customizable: Add more herbs, skip cheese, or pair with greens for balance

To boost nutrition:

• Use sweet potato or cauliflower gnocchi

• Toss with steamed veggies or lean protein

• Serve over sautéed spinach or arugula for a complete meal

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do I need to boil the gnocchi first?

No! That’s the beauty of this recipe. Use uncooked gnocchi straight from the package—boiling will make it too soft to crisp in the air fryer.

2. Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, but do not thaw it first. Just toss in oil and cook directly from frozen—add 1–2 extra minutes to cooking time.

3. Why is my gnocchi not crispy?

Make sure your air fryer is fully preheated, and don’t overcrowd the basket. Also, check that the gnocchi is dry and well-oiled.

4. What kind of gnocchi works best?

Shelf-stable gnocchi gives the crispiest results, but refrigerated and frozen types work too if uncooked.

5. How long do leftovers last?

Air fryer gnocchi is best fresh. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days but will lose crispiness. Reheat in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes to revive.

6. Can I make this dairy-free or vegan?

Absolutely! Most gnocchi is naturally vegan (check the label), and you can skip cheese or use plant-based options.

7. What sauces go best with air-fried gnocchi?

Classic marinara, pesto, garlic butter, truffle oil, ranch, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze all work beautifully depending on your flavor direction.

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