Easy Crispy Rosemary Garlic Air Fryer Gnocchi

If you’re craving a quick, crispy, and savory side dish, this Easy Crispy Rosemary Garlic Air Fryer Gnocchi is the perfect recipe! With golden edges, soft centers, and an irresistible blend of rosemary and garlic, this dish delivers all the cozy flavors of fall in just minutes.

Made entirely in the air fryer, it’s a simple, fuss-free recipe that’s not only vegan but also sure to wow your taste buds. 

​What is Gnocchi?

It’s an Italian pasta made from mashed potatoes and flour as the base. It consists of pillowy, soft, and fat dumplings that are typically served in marinara sauce or butter.

Spotlight on These Easy Crispy Rosemary Garlic Airy Fryer Gnocchi

Make them in 20 minutes. Yes, you heard me right. They are a simple side dish that you can throw together when you are short on time. This is one of those air fryer recipes you can make in a pinch.

They are delicious. I love how crispy they are on the outside but still soft on the inside. The best part is dipping them into marinara sauce or pesto. Yum! 

It’s a healthy side dish. Simple and wholesome ingredients are all you will find in this airy fryer recipe. You won’t find any seed oils, processed or dairy ingredients.

It’s a family staple. All of my picky eaters enjoy crispy air fryer gnocchi believe it or not. I bet yours will, too. They are simple and have a great flavor. 

They are cheap to make. Grab a bag of gnocchi, a small bunch of fresh rosemary, and a few staples you probably already have at home. This is a simple recipe with few ingredients. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any flavor gnocchi? Yes, any type of gnocchi will work! You can use cauliflower gnocchi, sweet potato gnocchi, plain gnocchi, etc. It’s totally up to you.

Can I use frozen gnocchi? Absolutely! You’ll prepare it the same way but cooking time will be a few minutes longer. One of my favorites is Trader Joe’s cauliflower gnocchi. *See notes below.

What is the texture like? The outside has a crispy texture while the inside stays soft and chewy. 

What are the best dipping sauces for this crispy gnocchi? I love dipping them into warm marinara sauce or pesto sauce.

I don’t care about dairy-free. What can I use instead of nutritional yeast? Fresh parmesan will work but add it after cooking. 

Can you reheat leftover gnocchi? Yes! Simply place them back into your oiled basket and at 350 degrees for 4-6 minutes.

Is gnocchi vegan? Some store-bought gnocchi is naturally vegan however it is important to check the ingredient list to confirm there is no egg in the recipe. Gnocchi is dairy-free and vegetarian naturally, however.

How to Eat This Italian Dish

As an appetizer: This is the new way to enjoy gnocchi. Air fried gnocchi is best served with a dipping sauce like marinara. Yum!

On a main dish: Place gnocchi over a green salad like croutons for a delicious twist! 

As a main dish: Toss the gnocchi in marinara sauce and add fresh basil or fresh parsley over top. Serve it with a side of roasted Brussels sprouts and baked lentil meatballs.

​The Ingredients

This simple gnocchi recipe is made with only 5 basic ingredients that you may have in your pantry right now. How easy is that?!

Gnocchi: You’ll use one bag of store-bought gnocchi or homemade gnocchi for this recipe. Grab your favorite flavor and favorite brand which is sold at most grocery stores in the pasta aisle. 

Avocado oil: You can use olive oil as well however whenever cooking at high temperatures, I like to use avocado oil.

Garlic: You’ll want to use fresh garlic for maximum flavor. You can definitely sub fresh garlic with 1/2 a teaspoon of garlic powder if you need to.

Rosemary: The best part of this recipe is the fresh herbs! Rosemary kicks up the flavor and makes this dish so delicious. 

Nutritional yeast: I love this vegan cheese replacement. It really gives off a cheesy vibe without any dairy. Not to mention it contains many nutrients.

Sea salt and black pepper: Finish this dish with salt and black pepper to taste.

The Instructions

Step one: For best results, preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and spray the basket with cooking spray such as avocado oil spray or olive oil spray. 

Step two: While the air fryer is preheating, cook the avocado oil mixture. Over medium heat, add avocado oil, garlic, and rosemary to a pan. Stir constantly for two minutes or so. You do not want the garlic to brown. Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper. 

Step three: Add the gnocchi to the pan and toss it until the gnocchi are evenly coated. 

Step four: Place the seasoned gnocchi on the greased air fryer basket in a single layer. Sprinkle with additional salt and cook in the preheated air fryer for 11-14 minutes if you use shelf-stable gnocchi or 13-16 minutes if you use frozen gnocchi. *Do not thaw frozen gnocchi.

The key is to cook the gnocchi until golden brown but not burnt. Please note: toss the gnocchi at the halfway point. You may want to toss it over a cutting board because it can get messy.

Serve immediately with your favorite pasta sauce. 

Tips + Modifications

A few tips you won’t want to miss: Preheat the air fryer. Shake the basket halfway through.

Storage

The best way to enjoy this vegan gnocchi is to eat it right away. However, if you would like to save leftovers, place them in an airtight container and in the fridge for up to two days.

To reheat, place the leftover gnocchi back onto an oiled air fryer basket and cook at 350 degrees for 4-6 minutes. 

Other Delicious Vegan Side Dishes

If you enjoyed this air fryer gnocchi recipe you’ll love these vegan recipes, too!

Stovetop Lentil Broccoli Gnocchi

Roasted Bell Pepper and Veggie Pasta

Easy Bruschetta Quinoa Salad

Enjoy!

XOXO

Michelle