Quick and Easy Trader Joes Cauliflower Gnocchi in the Air Fryer
Looking for a quick and easy way to cook 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. Say goodbye to soggy gnocchi made in the oven with this quick and easy meal in the air fryer.
Quick and Easy Trader Joes Cauliflower Gnocchi in the Air Fryer
Why I Like Air Frying Cauliflower Gnocchi
Super crispy, not soggy: Air frying the cauliflower gnocchi gives it a crispy texture, unlike traditional cooking methods that can make it soggy. The hot air circulates and crisps up the gnocchi, giving it a satisfying crunch.
It's so easy: Cooking cauliflower gnocchi in the air fryer is incredibly easy and quick. You can have your gnocchi cooked to perfection with just a few simple steps. This recipe is so good for lunch or a side dish!
It's quick: Cooking cauliflower gnocchi in the air fryer takes just 23 minutes, making it a quick option for a delicious meal. No thawing required!
No mess with a parchment paper liner: Unlike baking or pan-frying methods, you don't need to worry about using parchment paper or creating a mess. The air fryer basket is non-stick, making clean-up a breeze.
No dirty dishes: Cooking the cauliflower gnocchi in the air fryer eliminates the need for multiple pots and pans. You simply toss the gnocchi in the air fryer basket, spray with oil, and let the air fryer do the rest. This means fewer dishes to clean up afterward.
Versatile: The cauliflower gnocchi can be paired with a variety of sauces and flavors. Whether you prefer a classic red sauce, a creamy alfredo, or a simple olive oil and garlic combination, the cauliflower gnocchi can complement any sauce you choose.
What to Pair It With
Pesto sauce (try the vegan kale cashew pesto from Trader Joe's!)
Alfredo
Any red sauce
Simple olive oil and garlic
Butter and fresh herbs
Why I Like the Trader Joe's Cauliflower Gnocchi
Gluten-free, egg-free, and dairy-free: The cauliflower gnocchi is made from cauliflower, cassava flour, potato starch, and olive oil. This means it's suitable for those with dietary restrictions, including those who are gluten-free, egg-free, or dairy-free.
Healthier option: Traditional potato gnocchi is made from potatoes, eggs, and flour, which can be higher in calories and carbs. The cauliflower gnocchi is a lighter alternative, as it is made primarily from cauliflower. This makes it a great choice for those who are watching their calorie or carb intake.
Easy to cook: This cauliflower gnocchi cook quickly, saving you time and effort in the kitchen. However, you can't follow the directions on the bag! It will make them SOOOO SOGGY.
Air Fryer Trader Joe's Cauliflower Gnocchi Ingredients
1 bag of frozen cauliflower gnocchi
Avocado oil spray or olive oil spray
Your favorite sauce
How to Make Air Fryer Trader Joe's Cauliflower Gnocchi Recipe
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Open the bag of frozen cauliflower gnocchi and empty it into the air fryer basket.
Spray the gnocchi evenly with avocado oil or olive oil spray. This will help them crisp up in the air fryer.
Toss the gnocchi gently to coat them in the oil. Make sure they are spread out in a single layer and not piled on top of each other.
Place the basket into the preheated air fryer and cook at 400°F (200°C) for 22 minutes, flipping the gnocchi halfway through.
After 22 minutes, the gnocchi should be golden brown and crispy. Remove them from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving dish.
Toss the air-fried gnocchi in your favorite sauce. Pesto, Alfredo, marinara sauce, cheese sauce, or a simple extra virgin olive oil and garlic combination all work well.
Proteins to Pair the Cauliflower Gnocchi With
Garlic Butter Salmon: This lemon garlic butter salmon recipe is a delicious option to pair with the gnocchi. The rich flavors of the salmon complement the lightness of the gnocchi.
Frozen Salmon: If you want a quick and easy protein option, add Air Fried Frozen Salmon. It cooks perfectly in the air fryer and can be served alongside the cauliflower gnocchi.
Persian Chicken: For a flavorful and exotic protein option, consider making Persian chicken. The aromatic spices and tender chicken pair well with the cauliflower gnocchi.
Chicken Cutlet: If you prefer a classic protein choice, chicken cutlets are a great option. They can be prepared in various ways, such as breaded, pan-fried, or grilled. The crispy chicken cutlet complements the texture of the crispy gnocchi.
Storage
If you have any leftovers, store the cooked gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply pop them back into the air fryer for 5-6 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit until they are heated through and crispy again.
FAQ
What temperature should I set my air fryer to cook Trader Joe's Cauliflower Gnocchi?
For air fryer Cauliflower Gnocchi, you should set the temperature to 400°F. This will help achieve that perfect crispy texture. Make sure to flip the gnocchi halfway through the cooking process to ensure even browning.
How long does it take to cook Trader Joe's Cauliflower Gnocchi in an air fryer?
It takes about 22 minutes at 400F to give you crispy gnocchi that is not soggy. Just make sure to flip them halfway through for even cooking. It's a quick and easy method that eliminates the need for dirty dishes and parchment paper liners.
Is it better to cook Trader Joe's Cauliflower Gnocchi in an air fryer or oven?
Personally, I prefer using the air fryer to cook Trader Joe's Cauliflower Gnocchi. The air fryer gives the gnocchi a crispy texture, while if you cook it in the oven, you may get a soggier texture.
Plus, with the air fryer, there's no need to use a parchment paper liner or worry about any potential sticking. Just toss the gnocchi in, spray with oil, and you're good to go. The air fryer is a breeze to clean compared to the oven. You won't have to deal with baking sheets or pans, just a simple removable basket.
Can I make Trader Joe's Cauliflower Gnocchi crispy in an air fryer?
Cooking Trader Joe's Cauliflower Gnocchi in an air fryer is a fantastic way to achieve a crispy texture. Traditional methods of cooking the gnocchi can often leave it soggy, but the air fryer solves that problem by creating a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.
How do I know when Trader Joe's Cauliflower Gnocchi is cooked through in an air fryer?
The gnocchi should have a golden brown color on the outside. This is an indication that it has been cooked through and has a crispy texture. Another test you can make is by gently squeezing the gnocchi. It should feel soft and slightly firm, indicating that it is cooked all the way through. It may need more cooking time if it feels mushy or overly soft.
You can also take a taste test! Take a bite of the gnocchi to check for its readiness. It should have a tender texture and a pleasant taste. It needs more time in the air fryer if it feels raw or undercooked.
Trader Joes Cauliflower Gnocchi in the Air Fryer
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.
