Name: Crispy Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 small baby potatoes (or any small potatoes); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary or thyme (optional); Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish); Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Crispy Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes are a healthier, quicker twist on the classic roasted smashed potatoes. The air fryer gives them an incredible crunch on the outside while keeping the inside perfectly soft and fluffy. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you get a side dish that is not only full of flavor but also easy to make. The crispy texture and seasoned goodness make them the perfect accompaniment to almost any main dish. Plus, you can customize the seasoning to suit your taste!

Ingredients

12 small baby potatoes (or any small potatoes)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary or thyme (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Boil the potatoes: Begin by boiling the potatoes in salted water. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add the potatoes, and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
Smash the potatoes: Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, use a flat surface like the bottom of a glass or a potato masher to gently smash each potato. Don’t press too hard—just enough to flatten them slightly.
Season the potatoes: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, rosemary (or thyme), salt, and pepper. Drizzle this seasoning mixture over the smashed potatoes and toss gently to coat them evenly. If you’d like, you can sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over them for extra flavor.
Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
Cook the potatoes: Place the smashed potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. Air fry the potatoes at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges.
Serve: Once the potatoes are crispy and cooked to perfection, remove them from the air fryer. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add spice: If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper over the smashed potatoes before cooking.
Cheesy smashed potatoes: For extra flavor, sprinkle shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan) on top of the potatoes during the last 2-3 minutes of air frying.
Herb variations: Swap out rosemary or thyme for other herbs like oregano, basil, or sage depending on your preference.
Storage/Reheating

Store leftover crispy smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to get them crispy again. You can also reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use larger potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, you can use larger potatoes. Just be sure to cut them into halves or quarters to speed up the boiling process and ensure they cook evenly.

2. Do I have to boil the potatoes first?

Yes, boiling the potatoes before smashing ensures they cook through and become soft inside while allowing them to crisp up in the air fryer. If you skip boiling, the potatoes might not cook evenly.

3. Can I make these potatoes ahead of time?

You can boil and smash the potatoes ahead of time, then store them in the fridge for up to a day before air frying them. When ready to cook, simply season and air fry as directed.

4. How do I get the potatoes crispy?

The key to crispy smashed potatoes is to use a bit of oil for seasoning and to air fry them at a high temperature (400°F/200°C). Flip them halfway through to ensure even crispiness.

5. Can I use frozen potatoes?

It’s best to use fresh potatoes for this recipe, as frozen potatoes may not yield the same crispy texture. If using frozen, you might need to adjust the cooking time.

6. Can I skip the seasoning?

Yes, you can skip the seasoning if you prefer. However, adding the seasoning enhances the flavor and makes the potatoes extra delicious. You can also experiment with your own preferred spices.

Conclusion

Crispy Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes are an easy and satisfying side dish that’s full of flavor. With perfectly crispy edges and a soft, fluffy center, these potatoes are a delightful addition to any meal. The air fryer makes them quick and healthy, while still achieving that golden-brown crunch we all crave. Customize them with your favorite spices, herbs, or cheese for a dish that’s both versatile and delicious. Whether served with dinner or as a snack, these smashed potatoes are sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!