Air Fryer Steak Bites and Gnocchi

Bite our steak and gnocchi a viral sensation! We've adapted our favorite easy dinner recipe to the air fryer, making it more convenient than ever. If you're looking for a simple, restaurant-quality meal, this one delivers with juicy, flavorful marinated steak and crispy, golden gnocchi.

For the original, check out our pan-fried stovetop version Steak bites and gnocchi.

We love our steak bites and gnocchi because of the delicious, tender beef and convenient but delicious gnocchi, and we know you will too. Our air fryer version is another way to make it and you'll love how easy it is to put together. It's also a small portion, so you can make it for a small group, but don't worry—you'll still get all the perfect flavors you love in our classic recipe!

Material notes

• Steak: This is the star of the dish. We recommend using sirloin steak, but you can also use tenderloin, ribeye, or strip steak.
• Lemon juice: Fresh squeezed is best for flavor, but bottled lemon juice also works.
• Olive Oil: You can also use avocado oil.
• Worcestershire Sauce: If you don't have it, soy sauce can be used.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Helps tenderize the steak. White vinegar or red wine vinegar are the closest substitutes.
• Packaged Gnocchi: You can use shelf-stable dry gnocchi, usually found in the pasta aisle, or refrigerated gnocchi, often found in the deli section. Frozen gnocchi can also work, but may run out of spices. If using frozen, do not thaw it first.
• Garlic: Fresh mince has the best flavor, but ground varieties can work too.
• Parmesan Cheese: We like to sprinkle some on top for serving. Freshly grated melts well.

Beef substitute

The most important rule: buy what you can afford and enjoy! Sirloin steak Our top pick for balance between taste and price. If you're feeling fancy, go for it Beef tenderloin For an ultra luxurious soft and tender steak bite. Ribeye And Strip steak Also excellent option with great marble which means taste.

Keep an eye on your cooking time to avoid overcooking and drying out the meat. For best results, trim off excess fat or fat before marinating to prevent chewing.

Adding a veggie

Like adding veggies Asparagus or Broccoli A great way to round out meals. While tossing the gnocchi with the butter and garlic, add 1 cup bite-sized broccoli florets or asparagus tips. Add an additional tablespoon of olive oil or avocado oil and toss to coat. For tender-crisp asparagus, toss separately with olive oil and add during the last 4-5 minutes of cooking.

Marinating time

Although the recipe suggests marinating for 1 to 8 hours, even 30 minutes will make a difference when you're short on time. For busy weeknights, you can dice and marinate your steak ahead of time, then freeze the marinated steak for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, and your steak will be ready to cook.

Air Fryer Tips

Use a parchment liner: To make cleanup easier and prevent sticking, consider using an air fryer-safe parchment liner.

Avoid overcrowding and don't forget to toss: Air fryers vary in size and capacity. Avoid crowding the basket so you can allow for airflow. Cook in two separate batches if necessary based on the size of your air fryer. For best results, toss or shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.

Watch closely during cooking: Air fryers cook faster and steak bites are easier to overcook. Keep an eye on your food, especially during the last minutes of cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium).