If you’re looking for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner, look no further than air fryer gnocchi! This dish is not only incredibly simple to prepare but also brings out the wonderful flavors and textures of gnocchi—crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. You’ll love the aroma of garlic and herbs wafting through your kitchen, tempting everyone to the dinner table. Ready to give it a try?
What Is Air Fryer Gnocchi?
Air fryer gnocchi is a delightful twist on the classic Italian comfort food made from potato dumplings. Cooking gnocchi in an air fryer gives it a unique texture that’s both crispy and tender, all while keeping the preparation quick and easy. It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights or casual family dinners!
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Gnocchi
- Convenient: No boiling water or complicated steps required—just toss and cook!
- Flavorful: The air fryer enhances the natural taste of gnocchi while adding a beautiful crispiness.
- Customizable: Add your favorite herbs, spices, and toppings to make it your own.
- Budget-friendly: Gnocchi is an economical ingredient that stretches a long way.
- Family-friendly: It’s a dish that both kids and adults love, making it perfect for gatherings.
How to Make Air Fryer Gnocchi
Quick Overview
Making air fryer gnocchi takes just about 15 minutes, with minimal prep involved! Simply season the gnocchi, toss them in the air fryer, and enjoy delicious, crispy bites for dinner or as a snack.
Ingredients
- 1 package (about 16 oz) gnocchi (fresh or shelf-stable)
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: grated Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze
Directions
- Preheat your air fryer: Set it to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Prepare the gnocchi: In a large bowl, combine the gnocchi, olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the gnocchi are well-coated.
- Air fry the gnocchi: Place the seasoned gnocchi in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding for even cooking.
- Cook: Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even crispiness.
- Check for doneness: The gnocchi should be golden and crispy on the outside. If needed, air fry for an additional 2–3 minutes.
- Serve: Remove from the air fryer and serve hot, topped with your favorite garnishes if desired!
What to Serve With Air Fryer Gnocchi
- Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery side complements the gnocchi’s flavors perfectly.
- Salad: A fresh arugula or Caesar salad adds a nice crunch and balances the meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Tossed seasonal vegetables add color and nutrients to your plate.
- Wine Pairing: A light Italian white wine, like Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully.
- Pesto or Marinara Sauce: Serve with a side of sauce for dipping or drizzling.
Top Tips for Perfecting Air Fryer Gnocchi
- Substitutions: Feel free to use sweet potato gnocchi or gluten-free varieties if preferred.
- Spice Adjustments: Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or fresh herbs like basil after cooking for extra flavor.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (180°C) for about 5 minutes to restore crispiness.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Allow your air fryer gnocchi to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container.
- Freezing: You can freeze cooked gnocchi for up to 2 months. Just ensure they are in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat in the air fryer as mentioned above or warm them gently on the stovetop with a touch of olive oil.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen gnocchi? Yes! Just toss them straight into the air fryer without thawing, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
- What if I want it spicier? Feel free to add more garlic powder, black pepper, or even chili flakes to amp it up!
- Can I prep this in advance? While gnocchi can be seasoned in advance, it’s best cooked fresh for the best texture.
- Can I make it vegan? Absolutely! Just ensure your gnocchi is made without eggs and use olive oil as a cooking fat.
Conclusion
You and your family are going to fall in love with this air fryer gnocchi recipe! It’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor—perfect for any meal of the day. Try it tonight and let me know how it turned out!
Air Fryer Gnocchi
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the gnocchi, olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the gnocchi are well-coated.
- Place the seasoned gnocchi in the air fryer basket in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding.
- Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even crispiness.
- Check for doneness. The gnocchi should be golden and crispy on the outside. If needed, air fry for an additional 2–3 minutes.
- Remove from the air fryer and serve hot, topped with your favorite garnishes if desired.