These crispy air fryer potatoes are golden and crunchy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside. Perfect for a snack or a side dish with dinner!
Making them is a breeze—just toss the potatoes with a bit of oil and your favorite seasonings, then let the air fryer do its magic. I can’t resist munching on these hot and crispy treats! 🍟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes: Baby potatoes are ideal for this dish, but you can also use Yukon gold potatoes for their buttery flavor. Just make sure to cut them into uniform pieces for even cooking.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds a nice richness. If you’re looking for healthier options, you can substitute with avocado oil or even cooking spray to reduce calories.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These bring depth to the flavor. If you prefer fresh ingredients, you can use fresh minced garlic and finely chopped onion instead. Use about 2 cloves of garlic and half an onion.
Smoked Paprika: This spice gives a lovely smoky flavor. Don’t have it? You can use regular paprika, but if you want more smokiness, a bit of cayenne or chili powder can work too.
Fresh Parsley: While parsley adds freshness as a garnish, you could use fresh chives or cilantro if you prefer their flavors. They’ll brighten up the dish just as well!
How Do I Ensure My Potatoes Are Crispy?
Getting crispy potatoes in the air fryer is all about moisture control and even cooking. Here’s how to achieve that perfect crunch:
- Make sure to wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly to remove dirt. Pat them dry with a kitchen towel—this helps achieve crispiness.
- Cut your potatoes into similar sizes; this ensures they cook evenly and crisply.
- Preheating the air fryer is key! This helps to eliminate excess moisture and gives the potatoes a head start on that crunch.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket. Giving the potatoes space allows hot air to circulate and crisp all sides properly.
- Check on them halfway through cooking and give the basket a shake. This movement helps them cook evenly and get that golden brown finish.
Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes (or Yukon gold potatoes)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and 15-20 minutes for cooking in the air fryer. Total time is around 30 minutes from start to finish, and you will have deliciously crispy potatoes ready to savor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Potatoes:
Start by giving your baby potatoes a good wash and scrub to remove any dirt. It’s fine to keep the skin on, as it adds nice texture and flavor. Cut the potatoes in half or quarters based on their size, trying to make them roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
2. Season the Potatoes:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cut potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together well, ensuring all the potatoes are nicely coated with the tasty seasonings.
3. Air Fry the Potatoes:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Then, carefully place the seasoned potatoes into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd them, as this helps them get nice and crispy. Cook them for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to keep the cooking even. When they are crispy and golden brown, they’re ready!
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, take the crispy potatoes out and transfer them to a serving platter. Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color. Don’t forget to serve with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the potatoes before eating. Enjoy your deliciously crispy air fryer potatoes!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes or Yukon gold potatoes work best, you can use other varieties like red potatoes or russets. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly due to different sizes and starch content. Make sure to cut them uniformly for even cooking!
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No worries! If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can substitute it with regular paprika for a milder flavor, or even cayenne pepper if you want some heat. Just use about half the amount initially and adjust to taste!
How to Store Leftovers?
For any leftovers, let them cool to room temperature and then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) to restore their crispiness.
Can I Prep the Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the potatoes in advance! Toss them in the olive oil and spices, then store them in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. Just make sure to allow them to come to room temperature before cooking for best results.
