If you are craving a snack or side that perfectly balances crunchy edges with fluffy insides, this Crispy Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe is going to become your new favorite. Picture these golden little potatoes with their irresistibly crisp crust, kissed by garlic and a hint of sea salt, all whipped up swiftly in an air fryer for a healthier yet satisfyingly crispy treat. Whether you’re hosting a weekend gathering or just want a comforting dish to enjoy solo, these smashed potatoes are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that elevates humble baby potatoes to star status.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Crispy Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe keeps things simple with just a handful of essential ingredients. Each one plays an important role in building layers of flavor and perfect texture, so you get that delightful crisp on the outside while the inside stays tender and creamy.
- 2 lbs baby potatoes: Small size is perfect for even cooking and smashing, plus they have a naturally creamy texture inside.
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Adds a rich, fruity flavor and helps create that beautiful golden crust when air-fried.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Gives a savory punch without overpowering the potato’s natural flavor.
- 1 tsp sea salt: Enhances all the flavors and crisps up the skin nicely.
- ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper: Adds just enough heat and depth to elevate the taste.
- Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish): A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a bright, fresh note to finish.
How to Make Crispy Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Wash and Boil the Potatoes
Begin by washing your baby potatoes thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt clinging to the skins. Then, pop them into a pot of salted boiling water and cook until fork-tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. This step ensures the potatoes are soft inside, which is key for that fluffy center in your Crispy Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe.
Step 2: Smash the Potatoes
Once boiled, drain the potatoes and let them cool just enough to handle. On a lined baking sheet, gently press each potato with a potato masher or even the bottom of a glass to flatten it. You want them smashed but still in one piece – this creates plenty of surface area to crisp up beautifully in the air fryer.
Step 3: Season and Oil the Potatoes
Drizzle the smashed potatoes generously with the extra virgin olive oil, then sprinkle garlic powder, sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper over them. Toss everything gently to make sure each potato is coated evenly; this step infuses the potatoes with flavor and sets the stage for a golden, crispy finish.
Step 4: Air-Fry to Crispy Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Arrange the smashed potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking. Cook for 12 to 15 minutes until the outsides are gorgeous and golden brown. This method delivers crunch without the mess of deep-frying, making this Crispy Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe both delicious and convenient.
How to Serve Crispy Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
A little fresh herb garnish is all you need to make these crispy delights pop on the plate. Parsley, chives, or rosemary work wonderfully, adding a splash of color and a fragrant note that complements the garlic and crispy skin perfectly in this Crispy Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe.
Side Dishes
These smashed potatoes are versatile and can be paired with just about anything. Think grilled meats, roasted chicken, or a vibrant salad to balance the crispy richness. They also shine alongside dips like garlic aioli or a tangy yogurt sauce for a finger-food vibe.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress? Serve the Crispy Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe on a rustic wooden board sprinkled with sea salt flakes and fresh herbs. Or, top each one with a dollop of sour cream, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheddar for an indulgent loaded variation that’s sure to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your crispy potatoes, any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. They will stay good for up to 3 days, making them a great option for easy, tasty snacks or side dishes during the week.
Freezing
While these potatoes are best fresh, you can freeze them if necessary. Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. This prevents clumping and allows you to reheat only what you need later on.
Reheating
To revive the crispiness, reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 to 7 minutes, or until hot and crispy again. Avoid the microwave for reheating if you want to maintain that perfect crunchy texture that defines this Crispy Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Absolutely! Larger potatoes can work too but you’ll want to cut them into smaller chunks before boiling to ensure they cook through evenly and smash easily.
Do I have to use olive oil?
Olive oil adds great flavor and helps with crisping, but you can substitute with other oils like avocado or sunflower oil if you prefer.
How long do these potatoes stay crispy?
They are at their crispiest right out of the air fryer but will still hold some crispness for a few hours at room temperature. Storing and reheating them properly will help maintain that texture.
Can I add other seasonings?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with smoked paprika, cumin, or even Parmesan cheese for a unique twist on this Crispy Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe.
What’s the best way to smash the potatoes?
Using a potato masher or the bottom of a sturdy glass works best. Press down gently so the potatoes stay mostly in one piece but get flattened enough to crisp up well.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about this Crispy Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe that makes simple ingredients feel indulgent. They offer the ultimate comfort food experience with minimal effort and maximum crunch. Next time you want to impress without stress, give this recipe a go—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy potatoes.
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Crispy Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This recipe for Crispy Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes delivers perfectly tender baby potatoes with a golden, crispy exterior. Boiled until fork-tender, then smashed and seasoned with garlic powder, sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Cooked in the air fryer for a healthier, crunchy finish and optionally garnished with fresh herbs for added flavor.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 lbs baby potatoes
Seasoning & Oil
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme
Instructions
- Wash the Potatoes: Thoroughly rinse the baby potatoes under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Boil the Potatoes: Place the potatoes in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. Drain and allow them to cool slightly.
- Smash the Potatoes: Lay the boiled potatoes on a lined baking sheet. Using a potato masher or the bottom of a glass, gently smash each potato until it flattens but remains in one piece.
- Season the Potatoes: Drizzle the smashed potatoes with extra virgin olive oil. Sprinkle evenly with garlic powder, sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Toss gently to coat all the potatoes with seasoning.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat while you prepare the potatoes.
- Air Fry for Crispiness: Arrange the smashed potatoes in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Cook for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the potatoes from the air fryer and, if desired, garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, flip the potatoes halfway through the air frying time.
- You can substitute baby potatoes with small Yukon gold or red potatoes.
- Feel free to experiment with other seasonings like smoked paprika or rosemary.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer to retain their crisp texture.
