Can gnocchi be cooked in an air fryer?

Yes, gnocchi can be cooked in an air fryer. Air frying gnocchi results in a crispy exterior with a soft, pillowy inside. It’s quick, easy, and doesn’t require boiling first.

Can you fry gnocchi instead of boiling it?

Absolutely—you can fry gnocchi in a pan or air fryer instead of boiling. This method gives the gnocchi a deliciously crispy texture, perfect for salads or as a snack.

Can you put gnocchi in a salad?

Yes, adding air-fried gnocchi to a salad creates a hearty, flavorful dish with great texture. It’s a fun alternative to croutons and makes salads more filling.

How long to air fry gnocchi on Reddit?

Most Reddit users recommend air frying gnocchi for 12–15 minutes at 390°F, shaking the basket halfway through for even crisping and golden texture.

Air Fryer Gnocchi Salad: Crispy, Easy & Flavorful Recipe 2025

Name: Air Fryer Gnocchi Salad: The Viral, Must-Try Weeknight Meal Idea
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 pound shelf-stable gnocchi; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ¼ cup ranch dressing; 2 tablespoons prepared pesto (basil or pistachio); 3–4 cups spring mix or chopped kale; 4 oz sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained); ⅔ cup fresh mozzarella pearls (or shaved Parmesan); 3 tablespoons thinly sliced red onion; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Description

This crispy Air Fryer Gnocchi Salad combines golden air-fried gnocchi with fresh greens, sun-dried tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and a creamy pesto ranch dressing. It’s a hearty, flavorful dish perfect as a main or side for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Air Fryer Gnocchi:

1 pound shelf-stable gnocchi
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Pesto Ranch Dressing:

¼ cup ranch dressing
2 tablespoons prepared pesto (basil or pistachio)

For the Salad:

3–4 cups spring mix or chopped kale
4 oz sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained)
⅔ cup fresh mozzarella pearls (or shaved Parmesan)
3 tablespoons thinly sliced red onion
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C).
In a bowl, toss gnocchi with olive oil, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Place gnocchi in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for 13–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, until crispy and golden.
In a small bowl, whisk together ranch dressing and pesto until smooth.
In a large salad bowl, combine spring mix, sun-dried tomatoes, red onion, mozzarella pearls, and parsley.

Add the air-fried gnocchi and toss gently with dressing until well coated. Serve immediately or with dressing on the side.

Notes

For gluten-free, use gluten-free gnocchi and check dressing labels.
For a vegan version, use vegan gnocchi, dairy-free dressing, and plant-based cheese.
If storing, keep gnocchi separate from greens to maintain crispness.

Reheat leftover gnocchi in the air fryer for 3–4 minutes to revive crispiness

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired, Fusion