These crispy air fryer potatoes are golden brown and super tasty! They’re easy to make and perfect as a side dish or snack. Who doesn’t love fries that are crunchy on the outside and soft inside?
I love tossing them with a bit of salt and my favorite herbs right after cooking. They’re so good, you might have to hide some from your family! 🍟😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes: I recommend baby potatoes for their creamy texture. You can also use small Yukon Golds if you prefer. If you can’t find those, red potatoes work well too!
Olive Oil: This is essential for crispiness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, avocado oil is a great substitute due to its high smoke point.
Smoked Paprika: It adds a lovely depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika can be used instead. You might miss the smokiness, but it’ll still taste good!
Garlic and Onion Powder: These add savory notes. In a pinch, fresh minced garlic or finely chopped onions will work too; just adjust the cooking time slightly.
How Do I Get My Air Fryer Potatoes Crispier?
Getting that perfect crisp with your air fryer can be challenging, but here’s how to do it! The key is proper preparation and cooking technique that helps the potatoes brown evenly.
- Make sure to cut larger potatoes into even pieces, so they cook uniformly.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cooking in batches if needed allows better air circulation, leading to increased crispiness.
- Shaking the basket halfway through cooking is crucial. This action redistributes the potatoes for even browning.
- Lastly, pat the potatoes dry before seasoning if they’re especially moist. Reducing moisture helps them crisp up nicely.
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes (or small Yukon Gold potatoes)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to cook. You’ll have crispy potatoes ready in no time, perfect for a side dish or a tasty snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Potatoes:
Start by washing and scrubbing the baby potatoes in cold water until they’re clean. If your potatoes are on the larger side, cut them in half or quarters to make sure they cook evenly. This will help them get nice and crispy!
2. Seasoning:
In a large mixing bowl, toss the clean potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure all the potatoes are well coated with the seasoning so each bite is full of flavor!
3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Before cooking, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Let it run for about 5 minutes. This step ensures your potatoes start cooking evenly and become nice and crispy from the start!
4. Cook the Potatoes:
Carefully place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. If your air fryer is small, you might need to cook them in batches. Cook the potatoes for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to help them crisp up nicely. Watch for a golden brown color to know they’re ready!
5. Garnish and Serve:
When your potatoes are cooked and crispy, transfer them to a serving plate. Sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch and serve with lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy these delightful crispy potatoes as a side dish or a yummy snack!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes or small Yukon Golds work great, you can also use red potatoes or fingerling potatoes. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes to ensure even cooking. If using larger potatoes, cut them into smaller chunks or wedges.
How Can I Make These Potatoes Spicy?
If you like a bit of heat, you can add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix. Start with 1/4 teaspoon and adjust according to your spice preference. You can also serve them with a spicy dipping sauce for an extra kick!
What Should I Do If My Potatoes Aren’t Crispy Enough?
If you find your potatoes aren’t as crispy as you’d like, try cooking them for an additional 5 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Also, ensure you’re not overcrowding the air fryer basket; cooking in smaller batches allows for better airflow and crispiness.
How to Store Leftover Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes
Store any leftovers 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 375°F (190°C) until they’re hot and crispy again. This will help restore their texture!
