Reheating gnocchi in an air fryer takes just 3-5 minutes at 180°C (350°F), giving you crispy-edged, pillowy-soft results that beat microwaving every time. This method revitalises leftover gnocchi better than any other reheating technique, preserving that perfect al dente texture while adding delightful crunch.
Unlike microwaves that turn gnocchi rubbery or ovens that dry them out, air fryers circulate hot air to evenly crisp the exterior while keeping interiors tender. The rapid air circulation mimics the original cooking process far better than conventional reheating. You’ll find this technique works brilliantly whether you’re reheating homemade gnocchi or store-bought varieties from brands like Sacla or De Cecco.
For those who meal prep gnocchi dishes in advance, the air fryer becomes an indispensable tool. Leftovers from dishes like gnocchi alla sorrentina or pesto gnocchi regain their fresh-cooked quality with minimal effort. Check out our recipe section for more inspiration on gnocchi dishes that reheat beautifully.
Begin by preheating your air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for 3 minutes. Spread gnocchi in a single layer in the basket – overcrowding leads to steaming rather than crisping. Lightly spritz with olive oil if you want extra crunch, though this isn’t essential for previously cooked gnocchi. Cook for 3 minutes, shake the basket, then check for doneness.
The sweet spot for reheating gnocchi in an air fryer is 180°C (350°F) for 3-5 minutes depending on quantity and your preferred crispness. Higher temperatures risk burning while lower temps won’t properly revive the texture. Frozen gnocchi may need an extra minute – simply check after 4 minutes and continue if needed.
Different air fryer models may require slight adjustments. Compact 3.5L models like the Ninja Foodi might cook faster than larger 5L+ units. Our air fryer conversion chart helps adapt recipes across various makes and sizes. Remember, it’s always better to check early and add time than overdo it.
For restaurant-quality results, toss reheated gnocchi immediately with a knob of butter or drizzle of good olive oil. This revives moisture and enhances flavour. If reheating sauced gnocchi, add fresh sauce after air frying to prevent drying. Store-bought gnocchi often benefits from a light oil mist before reheating to improve texture.
Proper storage makes all the difference when reheating gnocchi in an air fryer. Cool cooked gnocchi completely before refrigerating in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions on a baking sheet before transferring to freezer bags – they’ll reheat beautifully straight from frozen.
When refrigerated gnocchi sticks together, simply break apart gently before air frying. A quick soak in warm water can help separate frozen gnocchi if needed. Our meal prep section has more tips for preparing gnocchi in advance while preserving quality.
If gnocchi emerges too dry, reduce time by 30 seconds next round or add a teaspoon of water to the air fryer basket. For uneven heating, shake the basket more frequently during cooking. Sticky gnocchi benefits from a light dusting of semolina or flour before reheating. Always clean your air fryer after cooking starchy foods – our cleaning guide makes this effortless.
Transform your air-fried gnocchi into new meals by tossing with roasted vegetables, crispy pancetta or fresh herbs. Try crumbling over blue cheese for a quick gourmet lunch, or mix into salads for added substance. The crispy texture makes reheated gnocchi perfect for topping soups instead of croutons.
For a complete meal, pair with air-fried chicken or salmon from our chicken recipes collection. The contrast between crispy protein and fluffy gnocchi creates restaurant-worthy plating with minimal effort. Leftover gnocchi also makes excellent fried “gnocchi cakes” when pressed and air-fried until golden.
