Welcome to your new favorite way of preparing gnocchi: in the air fryer. This versatile Italian pasta transforms into a crispy, golden treat when cooked in the air fryer, while keeping a soft and pillowy interior.
This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal, snack, or side dish, and can be adapted with different seasonings and sauces to match your cravings. Let's explore a simple, delicious air fryer gnocchi recipe that's sure to become a regular in your kitchen rotation.
Why This Recipe Works
The primary reason this recipe works is due to the unique cooking method. Traditional gnocchi is usually boiled, sautéed, or baked. However, when cooked in an air fryer, gnocchi develops a tantalizing crunch on the outside while maintaining a tender, melt-in-your-mouth consistency on the inside. Additionally, the air fryer is perfect for achieving an evenly cooked result without the need for constant stirring or the risk of overcooking, offering a foolproof method for preparing this classic Italian dish.
Secondly, this air fryer gnocchi recipe is a game-changer for its convenience and versatility. With minimal ingredients and prep time, you can whip up a satisfying meal within minutes. This recipe is also easy to customize, allowing you to add in your favorite spices, cheeses, or sauces to suit your personal taste. Plus, the air fryer is an efficient, healthier alternative to deep frying, offering a way to enjoy the crispness of fried gnocchi without excessive oil. So not only are you in for a flavorful treat, but you are also opting for a healthier cooking method.
Ingredients
Gnocchi - These are small, round dumplings traditionally made from potatoes, flour, and eggs. They are soft, comforting, and satisfying. You can buy them pre-made at the grocery store, or make them at home. If you're not a fan of potato gnocchi, feel free to substitute with another type of gnocchi, such as ricotta or pumpkin.
Olive Oil) - This oil will help the gnocchi crisp up nicely in the air fryer. You can use extra virgin for a bit of extra flavor, or substitute with another high-heat cooking oil such as avocado oil or canola oil.
Garlic Powder - Adds a wonderful aromatic flavor to the gnocchi. If you prefer, you can substitute with fresh minced garlic or even onion powder.
Parmesan Cheese - This hard, salty Italian cheese adds a delicious umami flavor to the gnocchi. If you need a substitute, Asiago or Pecorino Romano can also work well.
Fresh Basil Leaves - Basil will give your dish a fresh and slightly sweet taste. If it's not available, dried basil or even fresh parsley could be used instead.
Tips
- Be sure not to overcrowd the air fryer. The gnocchi should be in a single layer for even cooking.
- Remember to shake the air fryer basket halfway through cooking to ensure the gnocchi cooks evenly.
- If using fresh garlic instead of garlic powder, add it towards the end of the cooking process to prevent burning.
- If you want extra crispy gnocchi, leave them in the air fryer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Experiment with other seasonings to suit your taste, like crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or Italian seasoning for a more traditional flavor.
How to Serve
Air fried gnocchi makes a versatile dish that can be served in numerous ways. The golden, crispy outside paired with the soft, fluffy inside makes it a delightful addition to any meal.
- As a Main Dish: Toss the crispy gnocchi in a rich marinara sauce, sprinkle with more parmesan, and serve with a side of garlic bread for a satisfying meal.
- As a Side Dish: Pair the gnocchi with a juicy steak or grilled chicken. You can also mix it with some roasted vegetables for a hearty side dish.
- In a Salad: Add the air fried gnocchi to a green salad for some extra crunch and heartiness. It pairs well with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette.
Similar Recipes
Air Fryer Gnocchi
Ingredients
- 1 pound of gnocchi
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- ½ cup of grated parmesan cheese
- A handful of fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 200°C/390°F.
- In a bowl, toss the gnocchi with olive oil and garlic powder.
- Transfer the gnocchi to the air fryer basket, ensuring they're in a single layer.
- Cook the gnocchi for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Once cooked and golden, transfer the gnocchi to a bowl, sprinkle with parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Be sure not to overcrowd the air fryer. The gnocchi should be in a single layer for even cooking.
- Remember to shake the air fryer basket halfway through cooking to ensure the gnocchi cooks evenly.
- If using fresh garlic instead of garlic powder, add it towards the end of the cooking process to prevent burning.
- If you want extra crispy gnocchi, leave them in the air fryer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Experiment with other seasonings to suit your taste, like crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or Italian seasoning for a more traditional flavor.