Crispy and golden on the outside, soft and tender on the inside, air fryer gnocchi is a delightful dish. It’s easy to make, perfect for any occasion, and great for all ages. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or just looking for a quick snack, this recipe has you covered.

Why You Will Love This Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi
This recipe is a fantastic choice for busy cooks. The steps are simple, and the ingredients are easy to find. You can enjoy a tasty dish in under 30 minutes. Plus, it brings a cozy, comforting feel to your meal. Everyone in the family will love the crispy texture and cheesy flavor.
How to Make Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi
Making air fryer gnocchi is a breeze! With just a few steps, you can whip up a delicious side or snack. The air fryer gives it that perfect crunch without all the fuss of frying. It’s all about tossing the gnocchi with the right seasonings and cooking them until they’re golden and crispy.
What You Need
To make this tasty dish, gather these ingredients:
- 1 lb gnocchi (shelf-stable, refrigerator, or frozen – choose 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 cheese

Step-by-Step
Follow these simple steps to cook your delicious gnocchi:
- Preheat your air fryer to 390°F and lightly grease the basket with olive oil spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the gnocchi with the olive oil, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and parmesan cheese. If you are using frozen gnocchi, there’s no need to thaw it.
- Add the seasoned gnocchi to the preheated air fryer basket. Make sure they are spread out and not overlapping for the crispiest result.
- Cooking time will vary based on the type of gnocchi:
- Shelf-Stable & Refrigerated Gnocchi: Air fry at 390°F for 11–14 minutes, shaking the basket every 4 to 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Frozen Gnocchi: Air fry at 390°F for 13–16 minutes, also shaking the basket every 4 to 5 minutes.
- The gnocchi is ready when they are a lovely golden brown and crispy. Enjoy immediately, garnished with extra parmesan cheese and some fresh parsley if desired.
How to Serve Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi
There are many delicious ways to serve this gnocchi! Pair it with your favorite marinara sauce or pesto for dipping. It makes a lovely side dish with chicken or fish. You can also toss it on top of a fresh salad to add some crunch. Enjoy it at a cozy family dinner or as a fun appetizer at a gathering.
How to Store Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi
If you have leftovers, store them carefully. Place any uneaten gnocchi in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes at 390°F to regain their crispy texture. You can freeze leftover gnocchi, but be aware that they may lose some of their crispiness when reheated.
Recipe Tips
Here are some helpful tips to make your gnocchi even better:
- Use a mix of seasonings to customize the flavor. Try adding Italian herbs!
- Ensure your air fryer is well preheated for the best results.
- Avoid overcrowding the basket for optimal crispiness.
- Adjust the cooking time based on the size of your gnocchi.
- Experiment with different types of cheese if you’d like a different taste.
Variations & Swaps
You can switch things up with these fun ideas:
- Cheesy Version: Add mozzarella or cheddar cheese for extra creaminess.
- Herb-Infused: Toss in fresh herbs like basil or thyme before cooking.
- Protein-Packed: Mix in cooked chicken or shrimp for a heartier dish.
FAQs
Can I make the gnocchi ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the seasoned gnocchi and store them in the fridge for a few hours before cooking.
Can I freeze the gnocchi?
Yes, if you freeze the gnocchi before cooking, just add a few extra minutes to the air frying time.
How do I reheat leftover gnocchi?
Put the gnocchi back in the air fryer at 390°F for about 3-5 minutes to make them crispy again.
What if I don’t have parmesan cheese?
No worries! You can use other cheeses, like pecorino or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
What should I serve with the gnocchi?
It pairs wonderfully with marinara sauce, a light salad, or as a side to meats like grilled chicken or fish.

Crispy Air Fryer Gnocchi
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb gnocchi (shelf-stable, refrigerator, or frozen – choose 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 cheese
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your air fryer to 390°F and lightly grease the basket with olive oil spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the gnocchi with the olive oil, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and parmesan cheese.
- Add the seasoned gnocchi to the preheated air fryer basket, making sure they are spread out and not overlapping.
Cooking
- For Shelf-Stable & Refrigerated Gnocchi: Air fry at 390°F for 11–14 minutes, shaking the basket every 4 to 5 minutes.
- For Frozen Gnocchi: Air fry at 390°F for 13–16 minutes, shaking the basket every 4 to 5 minutes.
Serving
- Enjoy immediately, garnished with extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.
