If you’re searching for a foolproof way to put irresistibly golden, crunchy spuds on the table in under 30 minutes, these Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes are the answer. With a shatteringly crisp exterior, creamy centers, and a riot of flavor from garlic, paprika, and a fresh sprinkle of parsley, this side dish turns ordinary potatoes into something you’ll crave every week. Whether you’re serving them alongside a cozy family meal or dishing them up for friends, prepare for a chorus of “just one more!” after the first bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is a masterclass in simplicity, letting each ingredient shine to create unbeatable color and crunch. Every element is chosen for maximum flavor—so don’t skip a thing if you want your potatoes to truly wow!
- Baby potatoes: Their naturally creamy texture and thin skin crisp beautifully in the air fryer—halve or quarter for faster cooking and more surface area.
- Olive oil: Just a tablespoon and a half gives your potatoes irresistibly crispy, golden edges without deep frying.
- Garlic powder: Infuses the potatoes with earthy, savory notes that complement their mild taste.
- Paprika: Adds a subtle depth of smoky sweetness and gorgeous color.
- Onion powder: Delivers a subtle, almost roasted flavor that rounds out every bite.
- Salt: Essential for enhancing flavor and bringing out the potatoes’ natural sweetness.
- Black pepper: Lends a gentle tingle that wakes up the whole dish—adjust to your taste for more kick!
- Fresh parsley (optional): A final pop of color and freshness that makes your serving platter come alive.
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Before you even touch the potatoes, give your air fryer a head start by preheating it to 400°F (200°C) for about 3–5 minutes. This quick warm-up makes all the difference, ensuring those spuds start crisping the second they hit the basket.
Step 2: Season the Potatoes
In a large bowl, add your halved (or quartered) baby potatoes. Drizzle over the olive oil, then sprinkle in the garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together thoroughly. You want every nook and cranny coated for maximum crunch and flavor—the more even the coverage, the more impressive the finish on your Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes.
Step 3: Arrange and Cook
Spread the seasoned potatoes out in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Crowding the basket traps steam and robs you of that coveted crisp, so if you’re doubling the recipe, simply cook in batches. Air fry for 15–18 minutes, pausing halfway through to shake the basket or turn the potatoes with tongs—this creates those signature golden, crackly edges all over.
Step 4: Serve with Fresh Parsley
Once your potatoes are gloriously crisp on the outside and tender inside, scoop them onto a serving plate and shower with freshly chopped parsley if you like. It’s an extra burst of color and freshness that perfectly finishes your Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes.
How to Serve Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes
Garnishes
For an eye-catching finish, add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt right as they come out of the air fryer. That touch of crunch is pure magic! Chopped chives or a dollop of vegan sour cream also turn your Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes into a showstopper, while a quick grating of lemon zest adds sparkle for a summery twist.
Side Dishes
These potatoes are the perfect team player. Pair them with roasted veggies, a crisp green salad, or alongside your favorite plant-based mains. They soak up sauces like a dream and shine next to classics like grilled tofu, seared mushrooms, or even breakfast scrambles. Their versatility is genuinely endless.
Creative Ways to Present
Make things playful by serving your Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes on a platter with an assortment of dips—think creamy herbed mayo or spicy ketchup! You can also thread them onto skewers for skewered “potato fries” at a party, or pile them in mini cups for a build-your-own toppings bar at your next brunch or cookout.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have any left, store cooled potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They’ll stay flavorful and are easy to re-crisp when you’re ready for round two.
Freezing
While air fried potatoes are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers! Lay them in a single layer on a sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. This method keeps them from sticking together and lets you grab a handful whenever a craving for Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes strikes.
Reheating
To quickly bring back that golden crunch, pop chilled or frozen potatoes straight into your air fryer at 400°F for about 3–5 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to make them soft instead of crispy. This way, you regain all the texture and flavor you loved the first time around.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes give you the best creamy-inside, crispy-outside combo, Yukon gold or red potatoes work beautifully as well. Just be sure to cut them into even, bite-sized pieces for consistent cooking.
How do I keep Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes from getting soggy?
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket—always arrange them in a single layer. Also, use just enough oil for crisping, and shake the basket halfway through so all sides hit that hot air for a perfect finish.
Can I make these potatoes spicy?
Definitely! Add a pinch of cayenne or some chili powder to the seasoning blend if you want your Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes to have a noticeable kick. Adjust to your preferred heat level for the perfect balance.
What dipping sauces go well with these potatoes?
Just about anything! Try classic ketchup, garlicky vegan aioli, chipotle mayo, or even a creamy ranch. These potatoes love to be dunked and are perfect for experimentation—let your cravings guide you.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
No peeling is required for Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes! The thin skin of baby potatoes crisps up deliciously and adds extra texture, color, and nutrients. Just scrub them clean before slicing and cooking.
Final Thoughts
Don’t be surprised if these Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes steal the show every time you serve them. They’re fast, foolproof, and almost impossibly delicious. Give them a try, and I bet you’ll have a new go-to side that everyone asks for again and again!
Print
Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
These Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes are a delightful side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal. With a golden brown, crispy exterior and a tender interior, these seasoned baby potatoes are sure to be a hit at your table.
Ingredients
Potatoes:
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved or quartered depending on size
Seasoning:
- 1.5 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- Season Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the halved potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Air Fry: Place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 15–18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
- Serve: Remove from the air fryer, sprinkle with fresh parsley if using, and serve hot.
Notes
- You can use Yukon gold or red potatoes for best texture.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, and add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
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