Have you tried air-fried gnocchi yet? These spicy bites are delicious as a side dish, snack or appetizer. Soft and fluffy on the inside and crisp on the outside, they’re addictive and quick to prepare.
I used to prepare gnocchi by boiling and then pan-frying them to get a little crunch, but the air fryer has changed my approach. Air frying is faster and simpler and produces a reliably crisp exterior without parboiling.
To make air-fried gnocchi you simply season and lightly oil the gnocchi, then cook them in the air fryer. No boiling required, and cleanup is minimal.
For these gnocchi I used one of my favourite spice blends — a mix I also use on air-fried chips and crushed potatoes. It gives a smoky, spicy kick that complements the pillowy gnocchi. Of course, you can swap in any spice mix you prefer.
What ingredients do you need for air-fried gnocchi?
To make crispy, spicy air-fried gnocchi you will need:
- Gnocchi – store-bought works perfectly, but homemade gnocchi can be used if you prefer.
- Oil – olive oil is used here, but any neutral vegetable oil is fine.
- Salt – a small amount helps with crisping; reduce if your gnocchi are already salty and finish seasoning after air frying if needed.
- Herbs and spices – a simple blend of smoked paprika, chilli powder, garlic powder and oregano works very well.
How to make spicy air-fried gnocchi
These gnocchi are very easy to prepare. Start by placing the gnocchi in a bowl and drizzle with oil and your chosen spices. Toss until each piece is evenly coated.
Transfer the seasoned gnocchi to the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for about 12 minutes at 195°C (383°F), shaking or turning once or twice during cooking so they brown evenly. Air fryer models vary, so add a couple of minutes if you like them extra crisp.
Can you adapt the recipe?
Yes. Swap the spice mix for any combination you enjoy — Italian herbs, curry powder, za’atar or a lemon-pepper mix all work well. You can also add grated Parmesan after cooking, or toss the finished gnocchi with a little butter and fresh herbs.
How long do they keep fresh?
For best texture, eat the gnocchi immediately after air frying while they’re at their crispiest. Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a preheated air fryer for about 3–4 minutes to restore crispness.
When to eat air-fried gnocchi?
Air-fried gnocchi are versatile. Serve them as a side instead of roasted potatoes or fries, offer them as an appetizer with dipping sauces, or enjoy them as a snack while watching a movie.
Recipe
Spicy Air Fried Gnocchi
Corina Blum
Pin Recipe
Equipment
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Air fryer
Ingredients
- 200 g gnocchi
- 1 tablespoon oil I used olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon chilli powder
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon oregano
Instructions
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Coat the gnocchi in the oil and spices.
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Place in the air fryer and cook at 195°C for about 12 minutes, shaking a couple of times to ensure even browning.
Notes
Nutrition
More recipes you might like
If you enjoy these air-fried gnocchi, try one of these other air fryer favourites:
- Spicy air fryer chicken nuggets
- Spicy air fryer crisps / potato chips
- Air-fried harissa sweet potato wedges
You might also enjoy a collection of easy air fryer recipes for more inspiration.
Keep in touch
If you make these spicy air-fried gnocchi or try any other recipes, I’d love to hear your feedback.
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