Air Fryer Crispy Gnocchi with Garlic, Tomatoes and Parmesan

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16 December 2025
4.9 (48)
Air Fryer Crispy Gnocchi with Garlic, Tomatoes and Parmesan
20
total time
2
servings
20 kcal
calories

Introduction and Overview

Air fryer crispy gnocchi with garlic, tomatoes, and parmesan is the kind of dish that feels fancy but comes together in a fraction of the time of a traditional pan sauce. The magic lies in the air fryer’s hot, circulating air, which crisps the gnocchi on the outside while keeping the centers light and pillowy. When you add garlic and olive oil, you get a toasty aroma that perfumes the kitchen without risking burned bits. Roasted cherry tomatoes surrender their sweetness and a little acidity, creating a natural, glossy sauce that clings to each piece of gnocchi. A generous shower of parmesan at the end brings a nutty, salty finish that lifts the entire dish. The result is a simple, weeknight-friendly meal that feels like a restaurant plate but can be prepared in under 25 minutes. It’s also a flexible base: you can add greens for color, swap in different cheeses, or tailor the garlic intensity to your taste. This article walks you through gathering the right ingredients, prepping your equipment, and executing the cooking steps so you consistently produce crisp, flavorful gnocchi every time. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a little crowd, this recipe scales easily and rewards careful timing and gentle tossing to keep the gnocchi intact.

Gathering Ingredients

To achieve perfectly crispy air fryer gnocchi with garlic, tomatoes, and parmesan, begin with a short list of simple pantry staples and a handful of fresh produce. You will need store-bought potato gnocchi—look for dry-pack gnocchi that doesn't contain extra moisture—some olive oil, minced garlic, halved cherry tomatoes, and a healthy handful of grated parmesan. Salt and black pepper are essential, and a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick. Fresh basil or parsley brings brightness at the end. Optional extras include a squeeze of lemon for brightness, a spoon of tomato paste to deepen the tomato flavor, or a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for extra crunch. If you prefer gluten-free, choose certified gluten-free gnocchi, which holds up beautifully in the air fryer. For a heartier bite, toss in a few handfuls of baby spinach at the end so it wilts slightly while the gnocchi finishes crisping. The beauty of this dish is its flexibility; you can adjust the ratio of gnocchi to tomatoes depending on the size of your air fryer basket. Gather everything on a clean counter, wipe surfaces, and prepare a warm area for plating. This stage is not about precision; it’s about assembling the flavor-building blocks so that the cooking process goes smoothly and the result is consistently delicious.

Equipment and Prep

Before you begin cooking, assemble the equipment you will rely on. An air fryer that can accommodate a single layer of gnocchi yields the best crisp; if yours is smaller, you may need to work in batches. Use parchment liners or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and to simplify cleanup. Have a small mixing bowl for tossing the gnocchi with oil and seasonings, tongs or a silicone spatula for turning, a sharp knife and cutting board for prepping garlic, and a measuring spoon for salt. Preheating your air fryer for 2-3 minutes helps to initiate browning as soon as the gnocchi hit the basket. If your model has a fan setting or a preheat option, use it. Dry gnocchi thoroughly after opening the package; moisture on the surface slows browning and can lead to gummy edges. When laying the gnocchi in the basket, arrange them in a single layer with space to breathe; crowded pieces steam rather than roast. If you plan to add tomatoes, cut them in halves so their juices mingle with the gnocchi. Keep the parmesan ready to grate at the end. With the right equipment and prep, you’ll reduce cooking time, minimize overcooking, and ensure consistent crispness across the batch. ” ,}, {heading: 规定?} ,{

Prepping the Gnocchi and Tomatoes

While you’re gathering ingredients, take a moment to prepare the gnocchi and tomatoes so they hit the heat ready-to-cook. Pat the gnocchi dry if the package feels damp; a dry surface encourages better browning. Toss the gnocchi with a light drizzle of olive oil, a pinch of salt, pepper, and, if you like, a touch of garlic powder to deepen the garlic aroma. The goal is just enough oil to help the surface crisp without making the gnocchi heavy. For the tomatoes, halve or quarter them depending on size; you want them to roast quickly and release their juices, which will cling to the gnocchi as the dish finishes. If you’re using a tomato paste, whisk a small amount into a teaspoon of olive oil to create a quick glaze that coats the gnocchi later. When your gnocchi and tomatoes are ready, you’ll have a glossy, aromatic base that ready to roast in the air fryer. This step is essential to achieving the characteristic balance of crisp gnocchi, blistered tomatoes, and a savoriness from the parmesan. ” }, {heading: 规定?} ,{heading:"Cooking Process" , content:"Cooking the dish in the air fryer is a simple, nearly hands-off process that rewards careful timing. First, preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly toss the prepared gnocchi with a touch more olive oil, then spread them in a single layer in the basket. Cook for about 8 minutes, then shake or turn the pieces to promote even browning. After the first 8 minutes, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the basket; the tomatoes will roast and blister as the gnocchi finishes. Continue cooking for another 6-8 minutes, until the gnocchi are golden and crisp on the edges and the tomatoes have softened and released their juices. If your gnocchi browns quickly, reduce heat to 375°F (190°C) and extend time by a few minutes. During the last minute, you can pull the basket out and toss in a minced garlic clove so the aroma infuses the dish without burning. Remove from the air fryer and immediately toss with freshly grated parmesan while still hot; the cheese will melt and cling to the surfaces. A quick shower of chopped parsley or basil adds color and brightness. Serve immediately with extra parmesan on the side."} ,{

Cooking Process

Cooking the dish in the air fryer is a simple, nearly hands-off process that rewards careful timing. First, preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly toss the prepared gnocchi with a touch more olive oil, then spread them in a single layer in the basket. Cook for about 8 minutes, then shake or turn the pieces to promote even browning. After the first 8 minutes, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the basket; the tomatoes will roast and blister as the gnocchi finishes. Continue cooking for another 6-8 minutes, until the gnocchi are golden and crisp on the edges and the tomatoes have softened and released their juices. If your gnocchi browns quickly, reduce heat to 375°F (190°C) and extend time by a few minutes. During the last minute, you can pull the basket out and toss in a minced garlic clove so the aroma infuses the dish without burning. Remove from the air fryer and immediately toss with freshly grated parmesan while still hot; the cheese will melt and cling to the surfaces. A quick shower of chopped parsley or basil adds color and brightness. Serve immediately with extra parmesan on the side. image":{}} ,{heading":"Finishing and Serving","content":"Finish the dish by tossing the crisp gnocchi and roasted tomatoes with extra parmesan, minced garlic, and chopped fresh herbs. A squeeze of lemon can cut through richness and add a sunny note. Plate the gnocchi in shallow bowls or on a long platter, letting some pieces stack for height. A handful of fresh basil, arugula, or microgreens creates color contrast and a peppery bite that complements the dish. If you like a little heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes or drizzle a small amount of chili oil. Pair with a simple green salad or a slice of crusty bread for dipping into the garlicky tomato sauce. The texture should be a contrast: crisp edges on the gnocchi, tender centers, and juicy tomatoes. Storing leftovers is straightforward: refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days, reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to refresh the crispness. If you reheat on the stovetop, add a splash of olive oil to recreate the glossy finish. A light drizzle of olive oil before serving also helps to brighten the flavors and maintain the shine of parmesan. " ,image:null} ,{

Finishing and Serving

Finish the dish by tossing the crisp gnocchi and roasted tomatoes with extra parmesan, minced garlic, and chopped fresh herbs. A squeeze of lemon can cut through richness and add a sunny note. Plate the gnocchi in shallow bowls or on a long platter, letting some pieces stack for height. A handful of fresh basil, arugula, or microgreens creates color contrast and a peppery bite that complements the dish. If you like a little heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes or drizzle a small amount of chili oil. Pair with a simple green salad or a slice of crusty bread for dipping into the garlicky tomato sauce. The texture should be a contrast: crisp edges on the gnocchi, tender centers, and juicy tomatoes. Storing leftovers is straightforward: refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days, reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to refresh the crispness. If you reheat on the stovetop, add a splash of olive oil to recreate the glossy finish. A light drizzle of olive oil before serving also helps to brighten the flavors and maintain the shine of parmesan. } ,{heading:}]}]} 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Variations and Tips

To customize this dish, experiment with toppings and techniques. Spinach or arugula can be stirred in at the last moment to wilt slightly while the gnocchi finishes crisping. Sauté mushrooms with garlic for a heartier version. You can switch the tomatoes for roasted red peppers or add olives for a briny note. If you prefer a cheesy crust, finish with grated mozzarella or parmesan and run the air fryer for another minute to melt. For dairy-free options, substitute a plant-based parmesan or nutritional yeast. If you’re gluten-sensitive, choose certified gluten-free gnocchi and a gluten-free breadcrumb topping for extra crunch. A quick lemon zest at the end adds vibrancy and a clean finish. Budget-conscious tip: buying gnocchi in bulk can reduce cost per serving, especially when you’re cooking for a crowd. Finally, keep in mind that air fryer models vary; you may need to adjust time by 1-2 minutes, so check the gnocchi toward the end of cooking to avoid over-browning."} ,{heading:"Final Presentation and Storage","content":"Serve the finished dish immediately to enjoy the contrast between crisp gnocchi and blistered tomatoes. The final presentation shines with a shower of shaved parmesan, dotted greens, and a light drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil. A squeeze of lemon can lift the richness, and a few torn basil leaves bring a fresh aroma. This dish pairs nicely with a simple green salad or a slice of toasted bread rubbed with garlic. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, place the gnocchi and tomatoes in the air fryer for 2-4 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to restore the crisp edges. For best results, avoid reheating in the microwave, which can soften the gnocchi. In a pinch, a quick toss back in a hot skillet with a teaspoon of olive oil can also help revive texture. This recipe is a flexible, flavorful option that works for weeknights, casual gatherings, or a comforting solo dinner.

Final Remarks

This dish is a reliable weeknight winner that looks as good as it tastes. The combination of crisp gnocchi, garlicky tomatoes, and parmesan feels bright and comforting at once. It scales well for a small dinner party or a larger family meal, simply by increasing the gnocchi and tomatoes in proportion to your air fryer’s capacity. The less oil you use, the lighter the dish; yet the gnocchi still gets that desirable crunch. The tomatoes provide a natural, glossy sauce without heavy cream or long simmering. If you want to push the dish even further, experiment with a dollop of ricotta, a sprinkle of chili pepper, or a finishing brush of basil oil for an extra layer of aroma. The goal is balance: crisp texture, juicy tomato flavor, and a salty-cheesy finish that lingers on the palate. Enjoy this modern, versatile gnocchi dish any day of the week, and share the warmth with friends and family through a simple yet stunning plate. 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Air Fryer Crispy Gnocchi with Garlic, Tomatoes and Parmesan

Air Fryer Crispy Gnocchi with Garlic, Tomatoes and Parmesan

A quick, weeknight-friendly air fryer gnocchi dish with garlic, blistered tomatoes, and parmesan. Crispy edges, tender centers, and a bright finish in about 20–

total time

20

servings

2

calories

20 kcal

ingredients

  • 500 g potato gnocchi 🥔
  • 2 tbsp olive oil đź«’
  • 2 garlic cloves đź§„
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes 🍅
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan đź§€
  • Salt đź§‚
  • Freshly ground black pepper 🌶️
  • 1 tsp dried oregano 🌿
  • Fresh parsley for garnish 🌿

instructions

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 200°C.
  2. In a bowl, toss the gnocchi with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano until lightly coated.
  3. Spread the gnocchi in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
  4. Air fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even crisping.
  5. Add the cherry tomatoes to the basket in the last 4–5 minutes of cooking.
  6. When crisp and golden, remove from the air fryer and sprinkle with Parmesan.
  7. Garnish with chopped parsley, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve immediately.

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