Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes are little golden bites of joy! They’re perfectly crunchy on the outside and soft inside, making them a delightful side dish or snack.
Honestly, who can resist crispy potatoes? I love how quick they are to make, plus they need less oil than frying. Perfect for those of us who want yummy without the guilt!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes: I love using Yukon Gold or red potatoes for their creamy texture and rich flavor. If they’re unavailable, try using fingerling potatoes or even sweet potatoes for a different twist.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds healthy fat and a nice flavor. If you’re looking for a substitute, avocado oil works great too and has a high smoke point.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These powders are fantastic for easy seasoning. If you prefer fresh, you can substitute with minced garlic and finely chopped onions. Just adjust quantities to taste!
Paprika: Smoked paprika gives a lovely depth to the potatoes, but if you want a milder flavor, sweet paprika is a good alternative. You could even skip it entirely if you don’t have it.
Dried Thyme: Thyme is lovely, but feel free to use other dried herbs like rosemary or Italian seasoning, depending on your flavor preference.
How Can I Ensure My Potatoes Are Crispy in the Air Fryer?
Getting crispy potatoes in the air fryer is all about making sure moisture is minimized and heat circulation is maximized. Here are some key steps:
- Make sure to wash and thoroughly dry the potatoes before cutting. This helps prevent excess moisture.
- Cut the potatoes into similar sizes—half or quarter works well—so they cook evenly.
- Coat them lightly but evenly with oil; too much oil can lead to sogginess.
- Arrange the potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If they’re crowded, they’ll steam rather than crisp up.
- Remember to shake the basket halfway through cooking to promote even browning.
Following these tips will help you achieve that perfect crispy texture!
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or your favorite herbs)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 15-20 minutes cooking in the air fryer. It’s a quick and tasty side dish that’s perfect for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Potatoes:
Start by washing and drying the baby potatoes thoroughly. It’s important to get rid of any dirt. Then, cut the potatoes in half or quarters, depending on their size. This helps them cook evenly, so they get crispy all around!
2. Seasoning the Potatoes:
In a large mixing bowl, add the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together until it’s combined. Now, add the cut potatoes to the bowl and toss them gently until they are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings. This step is key for flavor!
3. Preheating the Air Fryer:
Next, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This helps the potatoes start cooking immediately, making them even crispier!
4. Air Frying the Potatoes:
Carefully place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket, keeping them in a single layer to ensure they cook well. Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook for 15-20 minutes. Make sure to shake the basket halfway through cooking to help them brown evenly. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside!
5. Serving:
Once the potatoes are cooked, take them out of the air fryer and transfer them to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve with lemon wedges on the side — a squeeze of lemon adds a bright, fresh flavor that really makes the dish shine!
Enjoy your crispy and delicious air fryer potatoes! They make a great side dish or snack for sharing!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While Yukon Gold and red potatoes are great choices, you can also use fingerling or even sweet potatoes. Just keep in mind that different potatoes may vary in cooking time, so check for doneness by poking them with a fork.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Garlic or Onion Powder?
Yes, you can omit garlic and onion powder if you prefer. Consider using fresh minced garlic or shallots for more flavor, or substitute with other seasonings like Italian herbs or seasoned salt to keep it tasty!
How to Store Leftover Air Fryer Potatoes
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes at 375°F (190°C) until crispy again, or microwave them if you’re in a hurry, though the texture may not be quite as crunchy.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Air Fryer?
Definitely! You can add veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots. Just ensure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking and adjust the cooking time as needed, keeping an eye on everything to avoid any overcooking.
