Air-Fried Gnocchi: A Quick, Crispy Delight

Making gnocchi in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get deliciously crispy gnocchi that's fluffy and tender on the inside. It's a versatile dish that can be served as a snack, side dish, or tossed in pasta sauce or salad. You can use frozen, shelf-stable, or chilled gnocchi and cook it in the air fryer in just 10 to 15 minutes without needing to boil it first. The key to getting crispy gnocchi is to ensure it cooks in a single layer and to shake the basket occasionally during cooking.

Choosing the right gnocchi

There are several types of gnocchi available on the market, including fresh gnocchi, frozen gnocchi, and cauliflower gnocchi. For the best results, it is important to choose the right type of gnocchi for your air fryer recipe.

Shelf-stable gnocchi

Shelf-stable gnocchi is a convenient option as it can be stored at room temperature and does not need to be boiled before air frying. It is also budget-friendly, requiring only a splash of olive oil to cook. This type of gnocchi works well in the air fryer and results in crispy and golden gnocchi with a fluffy texture. However, it is important to note that not all shelf-stable gnocchi are vegan-friendly due to the presence of lactic acid. If you require vegan gnocchi, opt for plant-based varieties such as DeLallo in the US or Difatti in the UK.

Frozen gnocchi

Frozen gnocchi is a convenient option if you want to cook gnocchi straight from the freezer without thawing it first. It can be used in the air fryer, resulting in crispy gnocchi with a soft and tender texture. However, it may take slightly longer to cook compared to shelf-stable or fresh gnocchi. When using frozen gnocchi, increase the cooking time by 2-3 minutes and check frequently to avoid overcooking.

Fresh gnocchi

Fresh gnocchi can also be used in the air fryer, resulting in a crispy exterior and tender interior. However, it is important to note that the cook time may vary depending on the type of fresh gnocchi used. Some recipes suggest cooking fresh gnocchi for around 15 minutes in the air fryer, while others recommend boiling it first and then pan-frying. If using fresh gnocchi, it is advisable to check the gnocchi frequently during cooking to avoid overcooking.

Cauliflower gnocchi

Cauliflower gnocchi is a healthier alternative to traditional potato gnocchi. It is made with a higher proportion of cauliflower and some potato starch and cassava flour. This type of gnocchi can be cooked in the air fryer, resulting in a crispy exterior and soft interior. It is important to note that the cooking instructions on the package may not result in the desired crispy texture, so it is recommended to follow a specific air fryer recipe.

In summary, the type of gnocchi you choose for your air fryer recipe will depend on your preferences and dietary requirements. Shelf-stable gnocchi is a convenient and budget-friendly option, while frozen gnocchi can be cooked straight from the freezer. Fresh gnocchi may require boiling before air frying, and cauliflower gnocchi offers a healthier alternative to potato gnocchi.

The importance of olive oil

Olive oil is an essential ingredient when making gnocchi in an air fryer. It is what helps to give the gnocchi its crispy texture.

Olive oil is a type of oil that is derived from olives, a fruit that is native to the Mediterranean region. It has been a popular ingredient in cooking for centuries due to its distinct flavour and aroma, as well as its health benefits. Olive oil is known to be a good source of healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help to lower the risk of heart disease and improve blood cholesterol levels. It also contains antioxidants, which can help to protect the body against cell damage and reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases.

When making air fryer gnocchi, olive oil is used to coat the gnocchi before it is cooked. This helps to ensure that the gnocchi does not stick to the air fryer basket and also helps to give it a crispy, golden texture. While other types of oil can be used, such as canola, vegetable, or avocado oil, olive oil is a popular choice due to its distinct flavour and health benefits.

In addition to olive oil, the gnocchi is typically seasoned with a combination of garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Some recipes also call for Parmesan cheese, which can be freshly grated for added flavour. These ingredients are tossed with the gnocchi in a large mixing bowl before being added to the preheated air fryer basket.

By using olive oil and a combination of seasonings, you can create a delicious and crispy air fryer gnocchi that is perfect as a snack, side dish, or appetizer.

Seasoning options

There are many ways to season your air-fried gnocchi. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Spices and Herbs

You can use a variety of dried spices and herbs to season your gnocchi. Some popular options include garlic powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, onion powder, dried basil, Italian seasoning, and cayenne pepper. You can also add some red chilli powder for an extra kick. If you want to get creative, try experimenting with different spice blends such as Taco seasoning, Ranch seasoning, Cajun seasoning, or a Baharat spice blend.

Cheesy Gnocchi

For a cheesy twist, toss your gnocchi with some finely grated Parmesan cheese. You can also try other types of grated cheese such as cheddar or mozzarella. If you're looking for a vegan option, nutritional yeast can be used as a substitute for Parmesan.

Sweet Variations

For a sweet treat, sprinkle some cinnamon and sugar on your gnocchi before air-frying. This will give them a crispy, sweet coating that's perfect for satisfying your sugar cravings.

Sauces

Air-fried gnocchi goes well with a variety of sauces. Try serving them with a side of marinara sauce, pesto, hot sauce, salsa, or a creamy pistachio sauce. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even make your own sauce by blending avocado or pistachio mint into a pesto.

Dips

If you're serving your gnocchi as a snack, provide some dips for your guests to enjoy. French onion dip, Zax sauce, Alabama white sauce, and homemade ketchup are all great options.

Proteins and Vegetables

To make your gnocchi a more substantial meal, add some proteins and vegetables. Try tossing them with spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese for a Tuscan-inspired dish. Or, for an Indian-inspired twist, add some ghee and curry seasoning. You can also serve your gnocchi with a side of salmon or chicken, or toss them into a salad as a crispy carb addition.

Air fryer temperature and timing

The ideal temperature to cook gnocchi in an air fryer is 390°F/200°C. The cooking time will vary depending on the type of gnocchi you are using.

For shelf-stable gnocchi, cook at 390°F for 8-14 minutes. Shake the basket every 4-5 minutes to ensure even cooking and to get that perfect golden colour.

For frozen gnocchi, cook at 390°F for 12-16 minutes. Again, shake the basket every 4-5 minutes. This longer cooking time ensures that the gnocchi is cooked through while achieving that crispy exterior.

For chilled gnocchi, cook at 400°F for 10 minutes. Shake the basket every 3 minutes.

It is important to note that cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer, so it is a good idea to check on your gnocchi regularly to ensure it is not burning.

If you are cooking homemade gnocchi, it is recommended to air fry for 12-15 minutes until crispy.

For cauliflower gnocchi, cook at 400°F/200°C for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally.

If you want to cook gnocchi from Trader Joe's, it is recommended to follow the specific instructions for their frozen cauliflower gnocchi. Cook at 400°F/200°C for 12 minutes, tossing every 3 minutes.

You can also cook gnocchi in the air fryer at a lower temperature if you don't want it to be crispy. Cook for 8 minutes at 390°F/200°C for a softer texture.

To reheat gnocchi, place in the air fryer at 350°F/180°C for 4-6 minutes, or until warmed through.

Serving suggestions

Gnocchi cooked in an air fryer can be served in a variety of ways, including as a side dish, a snack, or as part of a salad. Here are some serving suggestions:

As a Side Dish

Air fryer gnocchi makes a great alternative to potatoes or pasta and can be served with a variety of main dishes. Try serving it with balsamic feta stuffed chicken breasts, cauliflower leek potato soup, grilled Greek yoghurt chicken, or a healthy tomato soup.

As a Snack

If you're craving something salty, air fryer gnocchi is a perfect snack. Dip them in your favourite sauce, such as marinara sauce, pesto, ranch, or caesar dressing. You can also sprinkle some cinnamon and sugar on top for a sweet treat.

As Part of a Salad

Air fryer gnocchi makes a great addition to a salad, providing a crunchy texture. Try adding them to a Caesar salad or a Greek-style salad. You can also use them as a healthier alternative to croutons in any salad, such as a strawberry goat cheese salad, Greek spinach salad, or blackened salmon Caesar salad.

As an Appetizer

Serve air fryer gnocchi as bite-sized appetizers with a dipping sauce on the side. They can be paired with marinara sauce, pesto, ranch, or caesar dressing. You can also sprinkle some parmesan cheese on top or try other grated cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella.

As a Main Dish

You can also make air fryer gnocchi the star of your meal by adding some meat or vegetables and a sauce on the side. Try serving it with salmon, asparagus, mushrooms, and butter, or toss it with spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and parmesan cheese for a Tuscan-inspired dish.

Frequently asked questions