These crispy air fryer potatoes are the perfect side dish! They turn out golden and crunchy on the outside, while staying soft and fluffy on the inside. Yum!
Honestly, I can’t resist snacking on them right out of the fryer. They’re so easy to make and can be flavored any way you like. Just toss them with your favorite spices!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes: Yukon Gold or red potatoes are great for this recipe. They’re creamy inside and crisp nicely. If you can’t find these, any small waxy potatoes will work, or even larger potatoes cut into smaller chunks.
Olive Oil: This is key for crispiness. You can substitute it with avocado oil, which has a higher smoke point, or canola oil for a more neutral flavor. I prefer using olive oil for its taste and healthy fats!
Seasonings: The garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika give the potatoes their flavor. Feel free to use fresh garlic if you have it, just adjust for measurement. You can switch smoked paprika with regular paprika or even chili powder for a spicy kick!
Fresh Parsley: This adds color and a touch of freshness to the dish. If you don’t have parsley, try using rosemary or thyme. Dried herbs work too, but use less since they are more concentrated.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes?
For crispy potatoes, prepping and cooking methods matter. Follow these tips to get that perfect crunch.
- Make sure to rinse and dry the potatoes well before cutting. This removes excess starch, helping them crisp up.
- Cut them evenly into halves or quarters to ensure uniform cooking. Smaller pieces tend to get crispier!
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Giving them space allows hot air to circulate evenly, which is crucial for that crisp texture.
- Check doneness but don’t be afraid to leave them in a little longer. Different air fryers can vary in performance; just shake the basket halfway for even cooking.
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 2 pounds baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25 minutes in total, including 5 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes for cooking. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a delightful side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
Start by rinsing the baby potatoes under cold water. Make sure to pat them dry with a paper towel. Depending on their size, cut the potatoes in half or quarters. This helps them cook evenly and gives you the best crispy texture!
2. Season the Potatoes:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Once everything is mixed together, add the cut potatoes to the bowl. Toss gently until all the potatoes are well-coated with the delicious seasoning mix.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
While you’re preparing the potatoes, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This should take about 5 minutes. Preheating helps achieve that perfect crispy finish.
4. Air Fry the Potatoes:
Carefully place the seasoned potatoes into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook them at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes. Remember to shake the basket halfway through to ensure they crisp up evenly!
5. Check for Doneness:
After 15 minutes, take a peek at the potatoes. They should be golden brown and crispy! If you like them extra crispy, you can continue cooking for another 5 minutes, just keep an eye on them as they finish up.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once they’re cooked to your liking, carefully remove the potatoes from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving platter. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a nice touch. You can also serve lemon wedges on the side for a zesty flavor boost!
Enjoy your deliciously crispy air fryer potatoes!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! You can use other small potatoes like fingerlings or even red potatoes. Just keep in mind that different potatoes may vary in cooking time, so adjust accordingly if needed!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always double-check any seasonings or garlic powder if you’re particularly sensitive. Most brands are gluten-free, but it’s best to look for certified options just to be safe.
What Should I Do If My Potatoes Aren’t Crispy Enough?
If your potatoes aren’t as crispy as you’d like, try cooking them a bit longer in 2-3 minute increments until they reach your desired crispiness. Also, ensure they’re in a single layer in the air fryer for even heat distribution!
Can I Store Leftover Crispy Potatoes?
Yes, you can store any leftovers! Place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispiness!
