Air Fryer Gnocchi

My Air Fryer Gnocchi recipe is perfect: golden edges, pillowy centers, and that irresistible crunch that made me wonder why I ever boiled them at all. When I need something comforting but quick, it is my go-to for busy nights, lazy weekends.

Living in Northeastern Pennsylvania, I grew up on gnocchi. It is a staple in my families meal rotation. Therefore, I am always finding ways to reinvent them. Here are a few I love, my creamy gnocchi and my sheet pan gnocchi sausage dinner.

Why this Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipe is a Keeper

These gnocchi bites are super crisp using minimal oil. They’re made in the air fryer so it’s even fast clean‑up. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a little secret—simple, satisfying, and endlessly customizable.

• Crispy Perfection: Unlike boiled gnocchi, which is soft and tender, air frying transforms the little potato dumplings into delightful golden bites that have a crispy exterior while remaining tender and pillowy on the inside. This textural contrast is incredibly addictive.  
• Speed & Convenience: It’s incredibly fast! Much quicker than boiling a pot of water and then pan-frying. In minutes, you have a gourmet-tasting dish ready.
• Minimal Oil/Fat: The air fryer achieves that wonderful crispness with significantly less oil than traditional pan-frying or roasting, making it a healthier option.  
• No Boiling Required: Skip the large pot of boiling water and the potential for mushy gnocchi. It’s a one-step cooking process directly from the package (or frozen).  
• Versatility: Once air-fried, these crispy gnocchi are a fantastic base for a multitude of sauces, seasonings, and additions, making them adaptable to various meals.  
• Weeknight Winner: Its speed and simplicity make it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying but don’t have much time.
• Unexpected Delight: It surprises people! Many are accustomed to soft gnocchi, so the crispy version is often a pleasant and impressive revelation.

What Sauce Do I Serve Air Fryer Gnocchi With?

Some dipping sauces I like to pair air fried gnocchi with include marinara sauce, fresh basil or sun-dried tomato pesto, or a rich alfredo sauce.

Ingredient Notes for Gnocchi in the Air Fryer

You only need a few easy-to-find ingredients to make this easy appetizer; some of which you might have in your pantry already:

Get the full printable recipe with specific measurements and directions in the recipe card below.

• Gnocchi: Feel free to use any type of gnocchi you have, whether that’s shelf stable gnocchi, trader joe’s cauliflower gnocchi or fresh gnocchi.
• Oil: You will need some oil. Try olive, avocado or vegetable.
  

Variations Suggestions & Substitutions to Love this Air Fryer Gnocchi

This love this recipe because it’s so versatile. I like to experiment with flavors by using different ingredients.

• Refrigerated Gnocchi: Similar to shelf-stable, but check package instructions for any specific recommendations. Try sweet potato gnocchi or cauliflower gnocchi.
• Homemade Gnocchi: If you make your own, ensure they are firm enough to hold their shape. You might need to par-boil them very briefly (seconds) or even freeze them first for best air frying results.
• Garlic Parmesan Seasoning: Toss with garlic powder, onion powder, and grated Parmesan cheese after air frying.
• Italian Herb: Use a blend of dried Italian herbs, garlic powder, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Smoked Paprika & Cumin: For a slightly smoky, earthy flavor. Add a good pinch of red pepper flakes with other seasonings.
• Add-ins & Protein: Air fry chopped bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini alongside the gnocchi (they may need different cooking times depending on size). Add spinach or arugula at the very end with the sauce. Serve with grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, crumbled Italian sausage, crispy bacon bits, or white beans for a vegetarian protein boost.

Special Equipment Needed to Make this Recipe

Sometimes a specific item is needed to make a recipe just right. In this case, all that’s needed is an air fryer.

• Air Fryer: An air fryer cook the trader joe’s frozen cauliflower gnocchi so that it’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Gnocchi

This recipe comes together in 2 quick and easy steps. This gnocchi is a delicious snack, it quickly became one of my favorite easy recipes.

Get the full printable recipe with specific measurements and directions in the recipe card below.

1. Season Gnocchi: Preheat the air fryer. In the meantime, place the uncooked gnocchi in a large bowl and toss with oil. Stir in the garlic salt, a little at a time to ensure even coating.
2. Cook the Gnocchi: Add seasoned gnocchi to the air fryer basket and cook until golden brown and crispy. Be sure to shake the basket at least once, halfway through cooking.

Prep Ahead Suggestions to Make this Recipe

When I prepare ingredients ahead of time, it can help save me time and kitchen space when it comes to making everything for dinner.

• Pre-Season Gnocchi: If you plan to add specific dried herbs and spices (like garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika), you can toss the uncooked gnocchi with a tiny bit of oil and these seasonings in a bag or container ahead of time. Store at room temperature (if dry) or in the fridge (if adding fresh herbs/garlic) for up to a day.
• Prepare Your Sauce: Most of the time spent on a gnocchi dish is on the sauce. Make your pesto, marinara, brown butter sage, or creamy sauce ahead of time and simply warm it up when the gnocchi is ready.
• Chop Veggies: If adding vegetables (like bell peppers, onions, cherry tomatoes) to air fry alongside the gnocchi, chop them ahead of time.  
• Pre-measure Cheese/Garnish: Grate any cheese you plan to use for finishing (Parmesan, Pecorino) and chop fresh herbs like parsley or basil.

Common Questions About This Make Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipe