Parmesan Air Fryer Cauliflower Gnocchi

Who knew cauliflower could be so popular?! Turn on your air fryer and transform a bag of frozen cauliflower gnocchi into a crispy, cheesy treat in 20 minutes. Parmesan Air Fryer Cauliflower Gnocchi is an easy “hack” for the family to eat more veggies.

These little bites make an irresistible snack or appetizer with my Easy Marinara Sauce or a quick option for a weeknight meal.

I’m eager to share this recipe with you because

1. I love using my countertop air fryer, it seriously makes our lives easier and tastier
2. Serving a vegetable that does not look or taste like one is pretty exciting
3. I created a delicious way that my family will actually eat cauliflower!!

So, friend, if stinky, soggy steamed cauliflower is an absolute no in your house, this recipe is for you.

What is Cauliflower Gnocchi?

If you were my preschooler asking this question, I would simply respond by saying, “little pilllows of yummy, white cauliflower.”

And while that’s true, we’ll get a little more technical for here.

Let’s start with the gnocchi part. Maybe you’re scrolling here and thinking ” what the heck is that?!”

Traditionally, gnocchi is a dumpling-like pasta made from either potatoes, flour or eggs. The homemade version is a bit labor intensive to form the dough and shape and boil the pasta.

Here, we have a veggie-filled twist on that Italian pasta. Or simply, gnocchi made from cauliflower. And good news– you hardly have to work. Just open the bag and heat!

And how does cauliflower gnocchi taste you ask? Pretty tasty!! The cauliflower flavor is mild, and these have a tender texture.

Parmesan Air Fryer Gnocchi Recipe

This recipe takes a tasty, good thing (aka Trader Joes Cauliflower Gnocchi) and makes it even better. Sprinkle on grated parmesan cheese (shake right from the green can!) and crank up that air fryer.

In less than 20 minutes you have crispy, toasted parmesan encrusted cauli gnocchi ready to throw back by the handfuls.

Ingredients:

• Cauliflower Gnocchi
• Olive Oil
• Parmesan Cheese
• salt
• dried parsley flakes, optional

Equipment needed:

• Air Fryer
• mixing bowl
• measuring cup and spoon
• Spatula or tongs

Where can I buy cauliflower gnocchi?

You’ll notice this post features the one from Trader Joe’s. I consider this one the “OG” of cauliflower gnocchi and is pretty popular– it’s definitely my favorite!

Thankfully, other brands have jumped on board, making these frozen gnocchi more available. I’ve seen bags from brands like Green Giant at the grocery store. Check your freezer aisle!

And also– be sure to check your coupons. Green Giant tends to run a few cents higher for a slightly smaller amount (10 oz bag vs 12 oz bag at Trader Joes).

Rumor has it that ALDI may now be carrying frozen cauliflower gnocchi as well…I’ll keep you posted!!

How to cook:

This package lists several ways cauli gnocchi can be prepared– microwave, boil, and pan fry.

Ignore all that.

Air fryer is best!

That little machine ramps up and rapidly heat these little nuggets evenly, avoiding any soggy, wet, or bland texture. You end up with a crispy, brown parmesan crusted outside and a tender pillow -like (here I am with the pillow talk again) inside.

And it’s so easy!

Trader Joe’s cauliflower gnocchi is intended to be cooked from frozen, so no need to defrost or thaw out. Just follow these steps:

1. Preheat air fryer to 400 degrees (preheating helps get crispier results!)
2. Coat cauliflower gnocchi in oil and cheese, sprinkle on some salt
3. Air Fry for 10 minutes; rotate and add more cheese and oil
4. Air Fry for another 10-15 minutes
5. Garnish and serve alone or dip into your favorite condiment sauce!

How to Serve:

Most people would probably expect a dipping sauce when serving this as an appetizer. Pair it with my Easy Marinara Sauce. Such a stunning presentation for a tasty finger food!

The parmesan coating is so flavorful that I’ve served it as is for a quick side dish with chicken, meatloaf or burgers.

Of course, the kids will tell you ketchup or your favorite condiment also pairs well. Kinda like a tater tot!

Tips/Tricks:

• Storing Leftovers — on the rare occasion there is some left over, simply refrigerate in airtight container for 1-2 days.
• Reheating leftovers— You can microwave but to revive that crispy texture, place back in air fryer at 350 degrees for 3-5 minutes
• Don’t have an air fryer? Use baking sheet in oven. It’ll take longer, and not be quite as crispy but still an okay option.
• Recommended product: Countertop Air Fry Toaster Oven— get the benefit of an air fryer without an extra appliance that you have to get out every time. This functions as our toaster oven, broiler and we bake with it as well. Love the tray feature!! I line with foil for easy clean up.
• While I prefer foil for ease of cleanup, it’s optional. The downside is that it could block some of the heat circulating, preventing optimal crispiness.
• Note: Due to different models of air fryers, cooking time or process may vary. For example, some run hotter than others. Some have a tray while others have a basket. Be sure to check on your gnocchi to avoid burning.

Is this healthy?

Obviously, this gnocchi is a vegetable and makes a great pasta substitute (it’s also gluten free).

However, what really makes this recipe healthier is the fact that it’s delicious and satisfying. Therefore, I seek this out because I want to, not because I “have to, it’s healthier.”

We still eat all the pasta. We also throwback tater tots by the handful too.

But how cool is it that we enjoy this, and it happens to have cauliflower in it? Another quick option to have in freezer is so helpful.

Looking for something Similar?

Be sure to check out my other snack options:

• Ranch Dill Crispy Chickpeas
• Easy Queso (Skinny Cheese Dip)

Share a plate with others

I’d love for you to try this recipe. Please let me know– did your family love it too? How did you eat it? Do you have any questions regarding air frying or prep? Please leave comment below. And don’t forget to tag me @briefandbalanced on Instagram so I can see your creations! Thank you!