These crispy air fryer potatoes are golden and crunchy on the outside while being fluffy inside. They’re super easy to make and perfect for any meal!
I love how quickly they cook in the air fryer—no need to wait for the oven! Pair them with your favorite dip, and watch them disappear. Who can resist a good potato? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes: These are perfect because they cook evenly and have a creamy texture. If you can’t find baby potatoes, any small potatoes like fingerlings, or even large ones cut into chunks will work well too. Just adjust the cooking time for larger pieces.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds flavor and helps achieve that crispy texture. You can substitute it with avocado oil or melted coconut oil if you prefer a different taste or need a higher smoke point.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These spices really enhance the flavor. If fresh garlic and onion are on hand, you can use them instead (1 clove garlic and a small onion will work well). Just mince them finely and toss in with the potatoes.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a lovely smoky flavor. If you’ve got regular paprika, that will work too, but consider adding a touch of cumin for a smoky depth. If you can’t tolerate paprika, cayenne pepper can provide a different kind of kick.
Dried Thyme: This herb brings a nice earthy flavor to the dish. Feel free to substitute with dried rosemary, oregano, or any favorite herbs you enjoy. Fresh herbs can also be added after cooking for a fresh taste.
How Do I Get My Potatoes Extra Crispy in the Air Fryer?
Achieving crispy potatoes in an air fryer is all about moisture removal and proper seasoning. Start by thoroughly drying the washed potatoes; moisture can steam them and prevent crispiness. After seasoning, allow them to sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavor.
- Keep the potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer. Crowding can lead to uneven cooking.
- Shake the basket halfway through cooking to allow all sides to crisp up nicely.
- If you want even more crunch, give them a spray of oil halfway through, or try tossing them with a little cornstarch before seasoning!
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Potatoes:
- 2 pounds baby potatoes (or small potatoes of your choice)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or your preferred herb)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish and Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time. You’ll have crispy, delicious potatoes ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
Begin by washing and drying your baby potatoes thoroughly. If you’re using larger potatoes, make sure to cut them in half or quarters. This helps them cook more evenly and become nice and crispy!
2. Season the Potatoes:
In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything well, ensuring that each potato is coated evenly with the flavorful spices.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
While you’re seasoning the potatoes, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This will take about 5 minutes and helps to get those potatoes crispy as soon as they go in!
4. Air Fry the Potatoes:
Carefully place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might need to do this in batches. Cook the potatoes for 15 to 20 minutes. Make sure to shake the basket halfway through to help them cook evenly. You want them to be golden brown and crispy on the outside!
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the air fryer and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve them with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty kick!
Enjoy your crispy air fryer potatoes as a delightful side dish!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes are great for this recipe, you can use any small potatoes such as fingerlings or even regular potatoes cut into smaller pieces. Just make sure they are uniform in size to ensure even cooking!
What Should I Do If My Potatoes Are Not Crispy Enough?
If your potatoes are not crispy enough, try increasing the cooking time by a few minutes. Also, make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket; this can prevent the potatoes from getting that nice crispy texture. Shaking the basket occasionally will also help achieve optimal crispiness!
Can I Prepare the Potatoes In Advance?
Yes! You can wash and season the potatoes up to 24 hours in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. When you’re ready to air fry, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking.
How Should I Store Leftover Potatoes?
Store any leftover crispy potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) to regain that crispy texture, or heat them in the oven.
