Crispy Air Fryer Gnocchi – Ready in 15 Minutes

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If you’ve never tried crispy air fryer gnocchi, prepare to be completely converted. This simple method transforms soft, pillowy gnocchi into golden, crunchy bites that are irresistible. No boiling. No complicated prep. Just toss, air fry, and enjoy.

The best part? It’s ready in just 15 minutes.

Whether you need a quick appetizer, an easy side dish, or a crunchy snack to dip in marinara, this air fryer gnocchi recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This crispy gnocchi without boiling is:

  • Ready in 15 minutes
  • Perfectly golden and crunchy
  • Made with simple ingredients
  • No boiling required
  • Ideal for dipping or snacking
  • A fun alternative to fries or chips

Air frying gives gnocchi a crisp shell while keeping the inside tender and slightly chewy — the ultimate texture contrast.

Ingredients

  • 16 ounces shelf-stable potato gnocchi
  • 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Why Air Fryer Gnocchi Works So Well

Traditional gnocchi is boiled and served soft. But when you skip boiling and cook it directly in the air fryer, something magical happens.

The hot circulating air:

  • Evaporates surface moisture
  • Creates a crispy outer shell
  • Maintains a tender center
  • Cooks evenly and quickly

It’s the easiest way to turn store-bought gnocchi into a 15 minute appetizer that tastes restaurant-worthy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat to 400°F (200°C) for 2–3 minutes.

2. Season the Gnocchi

Place uncooked gnocchi in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.

Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss again until well seasoned.

3. Air Fry

Spread gnocchi in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding — cook in batches if necessary.

Cook for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

4. Finish & Serve

Transfer to a bowl. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley. Serve immediately.

Crispy Air Fryer Gnocchi

Golden, crunchy air fryer gnocchi ready in just 15 minutes. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
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Prep Time 3 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 230

Ingredients
  

Base
  • 16 oz shelf-stable potato gnocchi
  • 1.5 tbsp olive oil
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley optional

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Tongs or spatula

Method
 

  1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
  2. Toss gnocchi with olive oil and seasonings.
  3. Air fry in a single layer for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway.
  4. Sprinkle with Parmesan and parsley before serving.

Notes

Do not boil gnocchi before air frying for maximum crispiness.

Pro Tips for Maximum Crispiness

Don’t Boil First

Boiling adds moisture and prevents crisping.

Use Shelf-Stable Gnocchi

Refrigerated versions can be softer and may require slightly longer cooking.

Shake Halfway

Ensures even browning on all sides.

Serve Immediately

They’re crispiest right out of the air fryer.

Flavor Variations

Once you master the base recipe, try these twists:

Spicy Version

Add ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes before cooking.

Italian Herb

Mix in dried oregano and basil with the seasoning.

Garlic Parmesan

Increase garlic powder and toss with extra Parmesan after cooking.

Sweet Cinnamon

For a dessert-style snack, toss with melted butter and cinnamon sugar after air frying.

Dipping Sauce Ideas

Crispy air fryer gnocchi are perfect for dipping. Try:

  • Marinara sauce
  • Garlic aioli
  • Ranch dressing
  • Pesto
  • Spicy sriracha mayo
  • Creamy Alfredo

They’re basically the Italian version of tater tots.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile recipe works in many ways:

  • Party appetizer
  • After-school snack
  • Game day finger food
  • Salad topper for added crunch
  • Side dish with grilled chicken or steak

You can even toss them into a Caesar salad instead of croutons for a fun twist.

Storage & Reheating

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat

Air fry at 375°F for 3–4 minutes to restore crispiness.

Avoid microwaving — it softens the exterior.

Nutritional Benefits

While gnocchi is carb-based, air frying uses minimal oil compared to deep frying.

Benefits include:

  • Lower fat than fried snacks
  • Portion-controlled servings
  • Simple ingredient list
  • No heavy sauces required

You can also use whole wheat or cauliflower gnocchi for alternative options.

Common Questions

Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, but thaw first and pat dry before air frying.

Why aren’t my gnocchi crispy?

They may be overcrowded or need more cooking time.

Can I cook directly from the package?

Yes — no boiling required.

Is this gluten-free?

If using gluten-free gnocchi, yes.

Why This Recipe Is Trending

Air fryer recipes continue to rise in popularity because they’re:

  • Fast
  • Convenient
  • Healthier than deep frying
  • Beginner-friendly

And turning a classic Italian dumpling into crispy snack bites? That’s genius-level simplicity.

Final Thoughts

These Crispy Air Fryer Gnocchi – Ready in 15 Minutes are proof that simple ingredients can create something seriously addictive. Golden, crunchy, and endlessly customizable, they’re a must-try for anyone who owns an air fryer.

Once you taste that crispy exterior and tender center, you’ll wonder why you ever boiled gnocchi in the first place.

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