Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes are a fantastic side dish that everyone loves. They’re golden, crunchy outside and soft inside, making them super yummy!
Making them is a breeze: just toss diced potatoes with a bit of oil and seasoning, pop them in the air fryer, and watch them turn deliciously crispy. I can never resist sneaking a few right off the tray! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes: These small potatoes are perfect for air frying due to their even cooking and delightful texture. If you can’t find baby potatoes, try using small Yukon Gold or red potatoes instead. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary if cut into larger pieces.
Olive Oil: I love using olive oil for its healthy fats and flavor. If you’re looking for a substitute, any neutral oil like canola or avocado oil works well too. Just make sure it’s suitable for high-heat cooking.
Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika add fantastic flavor. You can mix it up with spices you prefer, like cayenne for heat or Italian seasoning for a herby twist. Just remember to adjust the amounts based on your taste!
Fresh Parsley: This is great for freshness and color. If you don’t have parsley, try cilantro or chives as a substitute. You won’t need much to enhance the dish.
How Do I Ensure My Air Fryer Potatoes are Crispy?
The key to getting those crispy edges on your potatoes is all in the preparation and cooking method. Start by making sure your potatoes are well-coated with oil and spices. This not only flavors them but helps with crisping.
- Preheat your air fryer; this ensures they start cooking as soon as they go in.
- Spread the potatoes out in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd them, or they’ll steam instead of crisp.
- Shake the basket halfway through cooking to promote even browning.
Patience goes a long way! Ideally, you want golden brown on the outside while remaining tender inside. Happy air frying!
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes (halved or quartered for larger ones)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet, based on your taste)
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll need about 5 minutes to get everything ready and then 15-20 minutes for the air frying to achieve those irresistible, crispy potatoes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This should take about 5 minutes. Preheating is important because it helps the potatoes cook evenly and become crispy!
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
In a big bowl, add your halved or quartered baby potatoes. Drizzle the olive oil over the top. Then, sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good toss until all the potatoes are nicely coated with the oil and spices. It’s like giving your potatoes a little flavor bath!
3. Air Fry the Potatoes:
Now, it’s time to cook! Carefully transfer the seasoned potatoes to the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd them, as this allows for even cooking. Air fry them at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes. Remember to shake the basket halfway through to help them crisp up on all sides. When they are golden brown and crispy outside, and tender inside, they are ready!
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take the crispy potatoes out of the air fryer and place them on a serving plate. Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color, and serve with lemon wedges on the side. Squeeze the lemon over the potatoes before digging in for an extra zing. Enjoy your delicious crispy air fryer potatoes!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes are great for their size and tenderness, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes as well. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking. If you use larger potatoes, cutting them into bite-sized pieces is key!
What if I Don’t Have an Air Fryer?
No problem! You can roast the seasoned potatoes in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 25-30 minutes. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer, and remember to toss them halfway through for better crispiness!
Can I Make These Potatoes Ahead of Time?
While they’re best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the potatoes ahead by cutting and seasoning them, then storing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just air fry them right before serving for the best texture!
How Should I Store Leftover Crispy Potatoes?
If you have leftovers, let them cool completely 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 at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to regain their crispy texture!
