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Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi

Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi turns ordinary store-bought gnocchi into crunchy little clouds with caramelized edges and a tender center in under 20 minutes.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Side, Snack
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 230

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound potato gnocchi - store-bought or homemade
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter - optional for flavor
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary or 1 teaspoon fresh chopped rosemary
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - optional for finishing
  • 1/2 lemon zest from 1/2 lemon - optional for brightness

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pat gnocchi dry if frozen or rinsed to avoid excess moisture which prevents crisping.
  2. In a large bowl, combine gnocchi, olive oil, melted butter (if using), salt, pepper, garlic powder, and rosemary. Toss gently until each piece is lightly coated.
Cooking
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
  2. Transfer gnocchi to the air fryer basket in a single layer; avoid overcrowding.
  3. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8 minutes.
  4. Shake the basket or use tongs to flip pieces and return to the air fryer for an additional 4-6 minutes, until edges are golden brown and crunchy.
  5. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and lemon zest immediately after removing from the fryer.

Notes

Avoid overcrowding the basket as it traps steam and prevents crisping. If gnocchi sticks together, gently separate before adding oil.