Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes are the perfect snack or side dish. They come out golden brown and crunchy on the outside, while staying fluffy on the inside. Yum!
Making these potatoes is a breeze! Just toss them in your favorite seasonings and let the air fryer do the magic. Trust me; you’ll be popping these tasty bites like popcorn! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes: These are perfect for crispy results! If baby potatoes aren’t available, feel free to use regular potatoes. Just cut them into smaller pieces to ensure even cooking!
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps the potatoes crisp up nicely. You can substitute it with another oil like avocado oil or canola oil if you prefer, but olive oil has a lovely, light taste.
Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: Both powders contribute to a delicious base flavor. If you don’t have these on hand, use fresh minced garlic and onion instead, adjusting the amounts to taste. I sometimes use them both for a stronger punch!
Smoked Paprika: It gives a lovely smoky flavor. If you can’t find smoked paprika, regular paprika works fine. For a spicier kick, you could also use cayenne pepper, just a pinch!
Fresh Parsley: This is for garnish and adds a nice pop of color. If you don’t have fresh parsley, you can skip it or use dried parsley, although the flavor won’t be as bright.
How Can I Make Sure My Potatoes Are Crispy?
Getting crispy potatoes in an air fryer is all about preparation and timing. Here’s how to achieve that crunch:
- Make sure to preheat the air fryer to the right temperature. This sets the stage for a perfect crisp.
- Coat the potatoes well with olive oil and seasonings. This not only flavors the potatoes but also helps with browning.
- Spread the potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of crisping.
- Don’t skip the shaking! Tossing them halfway through cooking ensures even cooking and browning.
- Cook to the right doneness—look for a golden color and a crunchy surface. Each air fryer may vary slightly, so keep an eye on them as they cook.
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs baby potatoes, halved or quartered as needed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prepare and another 15-20 minutes to cook in the air fryer. So, in total, you’ll have delicious crispy potatoes ready in around 25-30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the potatoes will cook evenly, giving them that lovely crispy texture.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
In a large bowl, toss the halved or quartered baby potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Use a spoon or your hands to make sure every piece is nicely coated with the seasoning.
3. Load the Air Fryer:
Carefully place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. If your air fryer is small, you may need to cook them in batches. Avoid overcrowding; this helps them become extra crispy!
4. Air Fry the Potatoes:
Air fry the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes. Make sure to shake the basket halfway through cooking. This helps achieve an even golden brown and crispy outside. Keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid overcooking!
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the crispy potatoes from the air fryer. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve them immediately alongside lemon wedges for an extra burst of zest. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes are great for this recipe, you can also use Yukon Gold, red potatoes, or even fingerling potatoes. Just adjust the cooking time if you choose larger potatoes, as they might take a bit longer to become crispy.
Can I Skip the Olive Oil?
If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you can reduce the olive oil or try using a cooking spray. However, keep in mind that oil is essential for achieving that crispy texture, so consider using at least a light coating for the best results.
How to Store Leftovers
To store leftovers, let the potatoes cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until they regain their crispiness!
Can I Add Other Seasonings?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with the seasonings. You could add Italian herbs, chili powder for some heat, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving for added flavor. Just make sure not to overpower the potatoes with too many flavors!
