My Favorite Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes – Easy and Delicious!
Hey there! I’m so excited to share this recipe with you because crispy air fryer potatoes are hands down one of my favorite sides to make. If you love potatoes that come out golden and crunchy on the outside but soft and fluffy inside, you’re in for a treat. Plus, air frying means less oil and less mess—win-win! I’m going to walk you through this fun and simple recipe that I think you’ll love making just as much as I do.
Why I Love Air Fryer Potatoes (And You Will Too!)
One of the best things about using an air fryer is how it crisps potatoes perfectly without needing tons of oil. These little gems come out beautifully seasoned and crispy, but still light enough to be a guilt-free indulgence. Plus, using spices like paprika and garlic powder makes them flavorful without complicated prep. They are super versatile, making a fantastic side for dinner or even a quick snack!
Nutritional Benefits of This Recipe
Potatoes often get a bad rep, but honestly, when cooked this way, they’re a pretty nutritious treat. They’re a great source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber—especially if you leave the skins on, which I usually do. Olive oil adds heart-healthy fats, while the herbs and spices add flavor without calories. So, you’re getting a yummy snack or side dish that also offers some good nutrition.
How to Make Perfect Air Fryer Potatoes
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb (about 450g) small or medium potatoes (like Yukon Gold or red potatoes)
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil (or any cooking oil you prefer)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (regular or smoked—both work great!)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
Let’s get cooking!
- First things first, wash and scrub your potatoes really well. You can leave the skins on—that’s where a lot of the goodness lives.
- Cut the potatoes into even halves or quarters so they cook at the same pace.
- In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil until they’re evenly coated.
- Add the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Give everything another good toss to make sure the seasonings stick to each piece.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes—this helps get them extra crispy.
- Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Try not to crowd them, so the hot air can circle and crisp each piece.
- Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking or turning the potatoes around halfway through cooking for even browning.
- When they’re golden brown on the outside and tender inside, you’re done! If they need a little more time, just pop them back in for a few minutes.
- Transfer the potatoes to a serving bowl and sprinkle with fresh parsley for that bright, fresh finish.
- Serve them hot and enjoy that amazing crispy-yet-soft texture as a snack or with your favorite meal.
Helpful Tips for Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: Placing potatoes in a single layer is key to getting them crispy. If you have lots, cook in batches.
- Shake halfway through: Turning the potatoes around halfway also helps them brown evenly and develop that perfect crunch.
- Use fresh spices: Fresh garlic powder and paprika really make the flavor pop! Smoked paprika adds a nice subtle smoky hint if you want to switch things up.
- Cut pieces evenly: Make sure your potato pieces are similar in size so they cook evenly without some pieces getting mushy or burnt.
- Serve right away: Air fryer foods taste best hot and crispy, so enjoy these potatoes fresh from the basket!
What You’ll Need: Essential Equipment
- An air fryer (you can find great options for all kitchen sizes!)
- A sharp knife and cutting board to prep your potatoes
- A large mixing bowl for tossing potatoes with oil and seasoning
- A spatula or spoon to toss the potatoes
- Measuring spoons for your spices and oil
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen potatoes instead of fresh? Fresh gives you the best texture here, but you can try using frozen potato cubes—just adjust cooking time and keep an eye on crispiness.
- What if I don’t have an air fryer? No worries! You can roast these in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Can I add other seasonings? Absolutely! Try rosemary, thyme, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra yum.
- Are these potatoes good for meal prep? They’re best fresh, but you can refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days and reheat in the air fryer to regain crispiness.
- Can I use other oils besides olive oil? Yes! Avocado oil, sunflower oil, or even a neutral oil like canola works well.
Give It a Try and Let’s Chat!
I’d really love to know how your crispy air fryer potatoes turn out! Try this recipe and snap a pic—then share it with me over on Pinterest. Whether you’re serving these for dinner or as a snack, they’re sure to be a hit. Happy cooking and crispy crispy eating!
