These crispy air fryer potatoes are a total treat! Golden, crunchy on the outside, and fluffy inside, they make the perfect side dish for any meal. Plus, they are super quick and easy to whip up!
Seriously, I can make these in no time at all. The best part? No deep-frying mess! Just season, pop them in the air fryer, and enjoy this tasty goodness in a flash!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes: These are perfect for their small size and tender texture. You can also use small red or yellow potatoes. If you’re in a pinch, try Yukon golds or even purple potatoes for a fun twist.
Olive Oil: A great choice for its flavor, but any cooking oil will work. If you’re looking for something lighter, avocado oil is a fantastic option and has a high smoke point.
Garlic Powder: This adds a nice kick, but you can replace it with minced fresh garlic for a stronger flavor. Just be careful not to burn it, as fresh garlic can brown quickly in the air fryer.
Paprika: This gives your potatoes a lovely color and a hint of smokiness. If you want more heat, opt for smoked paprika or cayenne pepper instead!
Herbs: Dried thyme and rosemary add aroma, but don’t hesitate to swap them for whatever dried herbs you have on hand. Italian seasoning works great here too!
How Do I Ensure My Potatoes Get Perfectly Crispy?
Getting those potatoes crispy in the air fryer is all about technique. Here are some tips to help you achieve that golden crunch:
- Make sure to cut your potatoes into uniform sizes for even cooking.
- Toss potatoes in oil and seasonings well to coat them fully; this helps them brown and crisp up nicely.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket! Cook in batches if necessary; this allows hot air to circulate around each potato.
- Shake the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking, giving all sides a chance to crisp up.
- Serve immediately for the best texture, as they tend to lose their crispness over time.
Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes Recipe Easy and Quick
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) baby potatoes or small red potatoes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to cook, so you’ll have crispy potatoes ready in just about 25-30 minutes! Perfect for a quick side dish or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
First, wash and dry the baby potatoes thoroughly. If you’re using larger potatoes, make sure to cut them into uniform bite-sized pieces, so they cook evenly in the air fryer.
2. Season the Potatoes:
In a mixing bowl, toss the cleaned potatoes with the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme or rosemary (if you’re using them), salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Make sure each potato is well coated for the best flavor!
3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 3 minutes. This step helps the potatoes start cooking right away and become nice and crispy.
4. Air Fry the Potatoes:
Carefully place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Be careful not to overcrowd them, as this will prevent them from getting crispy. You might need to do this in batches if you have a lot.
5. Cook and Shake:
Cook the potatoes at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, give the basket a shake to ensure even browning on all sides.
6. Check for Doneness:
After cooking, check if they are done by piercing a potato with a fork. It should be tender inside and crispy on the outside. If you’d like them a bit crispier, you can add a few extra minutes!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, transfer the crispy potatoes to a serving dish. If you like, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve them immediately while they’re still warm and crispy. Enjoy your yummy potatoes!
FAQ for Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes and small red potatoes work great, you can also use Yukon golds, fingerlings, or even sweet potatoes. Just remember to cut them into uniform pieces for even cooking!
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil on hand, feel free to use any other cooking oil like avocado oil, canola oil, or even melted butter for a richer flavor. Just aim for an oil suitable for high heat to maintain crispiness!
How Do I Store Leftover Crispy Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer again for about 5-7 minutes at 400°F (200°C) to revive their crispiness!
Can I Add Other Seasonings or Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite seasonings like chili powder, onion powder, or Italian herbs. You can also toss in some bell pepper or onion slices in the air fryer for extra flavor!
