Crispy Trader Joe's Cauliflower Gnocchi in Air Fryer

Jul 16

If you’re like me, always on the hunt for delicious, easy, and healthier alternatives to favorite comfort foods, Trader Joe's Cauliflower Gnocchi is a personal favorite. Cooking it in an air fryer achieves a perfect crispy texture that’s hard to beat.

Let’s dive into how to make the best air fryer cauliflower gnocchi, along with tips, tricks, and pairings to elevate your meal.

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Why I Like Air Frying Cauliflower Gnocchi

Super Crispy, Not Soggy:
Air frying Trader Joe’s cauliflower gnocchi results in a super crispy texture, unlike traditional methods that can leave gnocchi too soft. The hot air circulates around the gnocchi, crisping them up beautifully while maintaining a tender inside. It’s all about that satisfying crunch with every bite.
So Easy:
Air frying cauliflower gnocchi is incredibly quick and simple. With just a few steps, you’ll have perfectly cooked gnocchi, ideal for lunch or as a side dish. Plus, it’s perfect for busy weekdays with minimal effort.
Quick:
Cooking Trader Joe’s cauliflower gnocchi in the air fryer takes just 23 minutes. Cook them directly from frozen without the need to thaw, making it an ideal choice for a quick, delicious meal.
No Mess with a Parchment Paper Liner:
Air fryers require minimal cleanup. The non-stick basket means no parchment paper or mess to worry about, saving time and effort.
Fewer Dirty Dishes:
Cooking cauliflower gnocchi in the air fryer means less cleanup overall. Just toss them in, spray with oil, and let the air fryer do the work, eliminating the need for multiple pots and pans.
Versatile:
Trader Joe's cauliflower gnocchi pairs well with a variety of sauces, from classic red sauce to creamy Alfredo or a simple olive oil and garlic mix.

Why I Like Trader Joe's Cauliflower Gnocchi

Gluten-Free, Egg-Free, and Dairy-Free:
Made from cauliflower, cassava flour, potato starch, and olive oil, Trader Joe’s cauliflower gnocchi suits various dietary needs, including gluten-free, egg-free, and dairy-free diets.

Healthier Option:
Compared to traditional potato gnocchi, cauliflower gnocchi is lighter in calories and carbs, making it suitable for those watching their intake.

Jazz's Recommended Products

Wonder Oven from Our Place

This versatile oven is perfect for all your baking, roasting, and broiling needs. It’s a game-changer in the kitchen and a must-have for any home cook. Check it out here!

Chosen Foods Avocado Oil Spray

This high-heat, propellant-free avocado oil spray is perfect for all your cooking needs. It's a healthier alternative to other oils and sprays, making it ideal for achieving crispy, delicious results in the air fryer. You can find it here!

Air Fryer Trader Joe's Cauliflower Gnocchi Recipe

Ingredients:

1 bag of Trader Joe's frozen cauliflower gnocchi
Avocado oil spray or olive oil spray
Your favorite sauce

Instructions:

Preheat Your Air Fryer: Preheat to 400°F (200°C).
Add Gnocchi to the Basket: Empty the bag of frozen gnocchi into the air fryer basket.
Spray with Oil: Evenly coat gnocchi with avocado or olive oil spray for crisping.
Toss to Coat: Ensure gnocchi are spread in a single layer for even cooking.
Cook: Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 22 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Serve: Once golden brown and crispy, transfer to a dish and toss with your chosen sauce.

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Other Methods for Cooking Cauliflower Gnocchi

Explore these alternative cooking techniques:

Cauliflower Gnocchi on the Stovetop:

Heat a skillet with butter or olive oil.
Cook gnocchi in a single layer until golden brown and crispy.

Cauliflower Gnocchi in the Oven:

Bake on a lined sheet until crispy and golden brown.

Proteins to Pair With Cauliflower Gnocchi

Enhance your meal with these protein options:

Garlic Butter Salmon
Frozen Salmon
Persian Chicken
Chicken Cutlet

What to Pair with Trader Joe's Cauliflower Gnocchi

Trader Joe's Cauliflower Gnocchi is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sauces. Here are some of my favorite sauce pairings:

Brown Butter Sage Sauce: For a nutty, aromatic flavor, try my brown butter sage sauce. You can find the recipe here!
Pesto Sauce: My homemade pesto sauce adds a fresh and vibrant flavor. You can find the pesto recipe within my Pesto Crusted Salmon Recipe!
Alfredo Sauce: Creamy Alfredo is always a hit and adds a rich, comforting touch.
Red Sauce: Any marinara or tomato-based sauce works perfectly for a classic Italian vibe.
Olive Oil and Garlic: Light and flavorful, this combination enhances the gnocchi without overpowering it.
Butter and Fresh Herbs: A classic and delicious option that’s simple yet satisfying.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 5-6 minutes at 400°F until crispy.

FAQ

Yes, you can cook Trader Joe's cauliflower gnocchi directly from frozen in the air fryer for a crispy result. No need to thaw beforehand.
For the crispiest texture, ensure gnocchi are spread in a single layer in the air fryer basket and lightly spray with oil.
Yes, you can use other brands like Green Giant cauliflower gnocchi following the same air frying method. Adjust cooking times as needed.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the air fryer to maintain crispiness.
Enjoy with pesto, Alfredo, marinara, olive oil and garlic, or butter and herbs.
Yes, made primarily from cauliflower, it's lower in calories and carbs, suitable for various dietary needs.

Cooking Trader Joe's cauliflower gnocchi in the air fryer is a delicious way to enjoy a crispy, healthier meal. Try it with your favorite sauce or protein for a satisfying dish that’s quick and easy to prepare.

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Crispy Trader Joe's Cauliflower Gnocchi in Air Fryer

Yield: 1-2

Author: Jazz Leaf

Cook time: 23 MinTotal time: 23 Min

Trader Joe's cauliflower gnocchi? Then you'll love my recipe for Cauliflower Gnocchi in the Air Fryer! In just around 20 minutes, you can have crispy and delicious cauliflower gnocchi ready to be paired with your favorite sauce.

Ingredients

1 bag of frozen cauliflower gnocchi
Avocado oil spray or olive oil spray
Your favorite sauce

Instructions

Open the bag of gnocchi. Toss it into the air fryer.
Spray the gnocchi with avocado oil or olive oil spray evenly. Toss to coat.
Make sure not to pile the gnocchi on top of each other. Rather, just add them in a single layer.
Air fry at 400F for 22 minutes, flipping halfway.
To finish, toss in your favorite pasta sauce, I used pesto.

Hey, I’m Jazz

I’m a nutritional therapist practitioner and spent 3 years as a personal chef to NBA athletes. Follow along for easy, attainable and healthy recipes in under 30 minutes!