These crispy air fryer potatoes are golden and crunchy on the outside while fluffy on the inside. They’re easy to make and perfect as a side dish or snack!
Honestly, I can’t resist snacking on them right out of the fryer. Just sprinkle some salt and enjoy—who knew potatoes could be this fun? 🍟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes: These are perfect for air frying because they cook quickly and have a great texture. If unavailable, small Yukon gold or red potatoes work well too. You can also use larger potatoes, just cut them into smaller pieces for even cooking.
Olive Oil: I love using extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, avocado oil is a great substitute as it can handle high heat and has a mild taste. You could even use melted butter for a different flavor profile.
Spices: Garlic and onion powder add fantastic flavor. If you’re out, fresh minced garlic and onions can be used instead. Smoked paprika brings a lovely smoky taste; feel free to switch it with regular paprika or even chili powder for some heat!
Fresh Parsley: This garnish adds a pop of color and freshness. You could use any fresh herb you enjoy, like chives or cilantro. Dried herbs can also work; just use less since they’re more concentrated.
How Can I Ensure My Potatoes Are Crispy in the Air Fryer?
Getting that crispy texture is crucial when making air fryer potatoes. The key lies in a few simple techniques:
- Make sure to dry your potatoes thoroughly after washing; moisture can make them soggy.
- Coat them evenly with olive oil and spices to ensure every bite is full of flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket! Give the potatoes space to crisp up. Cook in batches if needed.
- Shake the basket halfway through cooking. This redistributes the potatoes and helps all sides get that golden crunch.
Following these steps will help you achieve perfectly crispy potatoes every time! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes (or small Yukon gold potatoes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and around 20-25 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 30 minutes to have these delicious, crispy potatoes ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
Start by washing the baby potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. After washing, dry them gently with a towel. If any potatoes are bigger than your bite, cut them in half to ensure they cook evenly.
2. Season the Potatoes:
In a mixing bowl, toss your cleaned potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a sprinkle of salt and black pepper. Mix everything together until the potatoes are well-coated and delicious.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Now it’s time to preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Let it warm up for about 5 minutes. This step helps achieve the perfect crispiness!
4. Cook the Potatoes:
Carefully place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket. Make sure not to overcrowd the basket; this allows the hot air to circulate and cook the potatoes evenly. Cook them at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes. Don’t forget to shake the basket halfway through to ensure all sides get nice and crispy.
5. Finish and Serve:
Once the potatoes are golden brown and crispy, use tongs to remove them from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving plate. For a bright touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra pop of flavor.
Enjoy your crispy air fryer potatoes as a fantastic side dish or a tasty snack!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes or small Yukon golds work perfectly, you can also use other varieties like red potatoes or even russet potatoes. Just be sure to cut larger potatoes into equal-sized pieces for even cooking.
How Can I Make These Potatoes Spicier?
If you’re looking to add some heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix. Start with ¼ teaspoon and adjust to your taste. Adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can also amp up the spice level nicely!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Air Fryer Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
Can I Make These Potatoes Ahead of Time?
You can prep the potatoes by washing and cutting them, and then store them in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a day before cooking. Just ensure they’re dry to help them crisp up nicely when you cook them in the air fryer!
