Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipe

Enjoy a modern twist on classic comfort food with these air fryer gnocchi. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, this dish is perfectly seasoned with garlic, oregano, and a hint of Parmesan. Ideal as a snack, appetizer, or side, it’s a delicious addition to your collection of Gnocchi Recipes.

I love making air fryer gnocchi because it’s quick, healthy and really satisfying. I use 1 lb of potato, cauliflower or sweet potato gnocchi which provides a good balance of carbs and nutrients.

After tossing the gnocchi in 2 tbsp olive oil, I sprinkle in 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, 1/4 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. This blend not only spices them up but also adds some nutritional benefits since garlic and oregano have antioxidants and other key micronutrients.

I sometimes mix in 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese for a cheesy kick and then garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor. This recipe reminds me of solid air fryer dinner recipes that you see from top chefs.

It’s super easy, taking less than 15 minutes to achieve a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior, making it an ideal snack, appetizer or side dish.

Why I Like this Recipe

I’ve gotta say, this air fryer gnocchi recipe is a game changer for me. Here are a few reasons why I love it:

1. I love how it comes out super crispy on the outside yet remains soft and fluffy on the inside. There’s just something about that texture combo that makes every bite awesome.

2. I really appreciate that it takes less than 15 minutes to make. When I’m in a rush or just feel lazy, it’s the perfect meal or snack that doesn’t require a ton of work.

3. The ingredients are really simple and common in my kitchen so I don’t need to rush out to the store. Plus, I love that I can mix it up with different types of gnocchi – like potato, cauliflower, or sweet potato – to keep things interesting.

4. I enjoy the little flavor boosts like the garlic powder, oregano, and even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if I’m really in the mood for extra cheesy goodness. It just makes the dish pop without being too complicated.

Overall, this recipe feels easy, personal, and just right when I need something tasty in a hurry.

Ingredients

• Gnocchi: Made from potato, cauliflower, or sweet potato, they deliver abundant carbohydrate energy, fiber, and satiety.
• Olive oil: A heart-healthy fat that richly enriches flavor, provides essential fatty acids, and improves overall texture.
• Garlic powder: It adds a robust zing, delivers antioxidants, and enhances dish flavor with a garlicky punch.
• Dried oregano: This herb offers earthy, aromatic notes, packed with antioxidants, adding a savory depth of flavor.
• Parmesan cheese: Optional yet flavorful, it supplies protein, calcium, and a salty, savory kick to each bite.
• Fresh basil: A bright garnish that boosts freshness, offers antioxidants, and balances the dish with herbal notes.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 lb gnocchi (potato, cauliflower, or sweet potato works great)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp salt (or adjust to yer taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper (or more if you like it spicy)
• Optional: 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese for a cheesy kick
• Optional: Fresh basil leaves for garnish

How to Make this

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F so it’s nice and hot when you add the gnocchi.

2. In a bowl, toss 1 lb of gnocchi with 2 tbsp of olive oil until all pieces are coated.

3. Sprinkle in 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper and mix well.

4. If you’re feelin like extra cheesy flavor, mix in 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese at this point.

5. Place the gnocchi in your air fryer basket in a single layer so they cook evenly.

6. Cook the gnocchi for 10 minutes, giving the basket a quick shake around the halfway mark.

7. Check if they’re golden and crispy on the outside and fluffy inside; if not, cook for an extra 2-3 minutes.

8. Once done, transfer the gnocchi to a serving plate.

9. Garnish with some fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and extra flavor.

10. Enjoy your crispy, tasty air fryer gnocchi as a snack, appetizer or side dish!

Equipment Needed

1. Air fryer
2. Large mixing bowl
3. Measuring spoons
4. Spatula or mixing spoon
5. Grater (for the Parmesan cheese if you choose to use it)
6. Air fryer basket (which comes with your air fryer)
7. Serving plate

These are all the basic items you’ll need.

FAQ

Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• If you don’t have olive oil, you can use avocado oil or even a bit of melted butter. They both work pretty well in giving that rich flavor.
• Instead of garlic powder, you can try using some finely chopped fresh garlic. Its punchy flavor can really change the vibe of the dish.
• If you’re out of dried oregano, dried thyme or basil can be a great alternative to bring some herby notes to the gnocchi.
• For salt, you can use sea salt or kosher salt instead, just remember they might have a bit different intensity so adjust accordingly.
• And if you want a different cheesy kick, Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese can totally replace the Parmesan without losing the cheesy goodness.

Pro Tips

1. For extra flavor, let the gnocchi sit with the oil and spices for a few minutes before tossing them in the air fryer so they really soak up the taste.
2. Make sure you give the basket a good shake halfway through cooking so every piece gets crunchy, instead of a few being overdone.
3. If you want a really cheesy kick, try stirring in half the Parmesan before air frying and then sprinkle the rest on right after it comes out.
4. When garnishing with basil its best to add it right after cooking so it keeps its fresh flavor and doesn’t get all wilted.