Creamy, Cheesy Gnocchi in the Air Fryer is a delicious, quick, and easy dish that combines the fluffy texture of gnocchi with a rich, cheesy sauce. Using the air fryer gives it a crispy, golden exterior while keeping the gnocchi soft on the inside. Here’s how to make this comforting dish!
Ingredients:
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1 package (about 16 oz) of gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
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1/2 cup heavy cream
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2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
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1 garlic clove, minced
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1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Gnocchi:
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If you’re using store-bought gnocchi, follow the package instructions to cook them. Typically, you’ll want to boil them in salted water until they float to the top (about 2-3 minutes).
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Drain the gnocchi and set them aside to cool for a few minutes. If you’re making homemade gnocchi, ensure they are boiled and ready for the air fryer.
2. Season the Gnocchi:
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Toss the boiled gnocchi in a bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper, and dried oregano (or Italian seasoning). This adds flavor and helps them get crispy in the air fryer.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
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Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
4. Air Fry the Gnocchi:
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Place the seasoned gnocchi in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You might need to cook them in batches if you’re making a larger amount. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even crisping, until they’re golden and crispy.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
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While the gnocchi is cooking, prepare the creamy cheese sauce. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat.
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Add the cream cheese and garlic, stirring until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
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Stir in the mozzarella cheese and parmesan cheese, continuing to stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Season with a little salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine the Gnocchi and Sauce:
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Once the gnocchi is crispy and golden, remove it from the air fryer and transfer it to a bowl.
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Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the gnocchi and toss to coat evenly. You can add extra cheese on top for a more cheesy finish, if desired.
7. Serve:
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Serve the creamy, cheesy gnocchi immediately, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips:
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Crispier Gnocchi: If you prefer extra crispy gnocchi, feel free to air fry them for a few more minutes, but be careful not to overcook them.
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Add Veggies or Meat: You can also stir in cooked chicken, spinach, or other vegetables like mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
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Homemade Gnocchi: If you’re using homemade gnocchi, make sure to cook it thoroughly in boiling water before transferring to the air fryer for a crispy finish.
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Cheese Sauce Variations: Experiment with adding garlic powder, chili flakes, or fresh basil to the cheese sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
This Creamy, Cheesy Gnocchi in the Air Fryer is the ultimate comfort food with the perfect balance of crispy and creamy textures. Enjoy!