Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
Discover perfectly crispy Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with a golden finish in this quick, easy, and delicious recipe. Combining tender, fluffy interiors with a crunchy smashed exterior, this healthier alternative side dish uses simple ingredients and the magic of an air fryer to deliver gourmet-quality potatoes in under 30 minutes.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free, Vegan
Potatoes
- Small to Medium Baby Yukon Gold or Red Potatoes – about 1.5 pounds
Seasonings and Oil
- Olive Oil – 2 to 3 tablespoons
- Garlic Powder – 1 teaspoon
- Salt – 1 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Black Pepper – 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Fresh Herbs (Optional) – 1 to 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary or parsley
- Boil the Potatoes: Start by boiling 1.5 pounds of small baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes in salted water until fork-tender but still holding their shape, about 15 to 20 minutes. This creates a soft interior perfect for smashing.
- Preheat Your Air Fryer: While boiling, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C) to ensure maximum crispiness when cooking.
- Smash the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes well and place them on a baking sheet or sturdy surface. Using the bottom of a glass or potato masher, gently press down on each potato until it is about half its original thickness but still intact.
- Season and Oil: Generously brush or spray the smashed potatoes with 2 to 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Sprinkle evenly with 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and any optional herbs or spices you prefer.
- Air Fry to Crispy Perfection: Arrange the potatoes in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, leaving space around each for air circulation. Cook at 400°F for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping them halfway through to brown evenly on all sides.
- Serve and Enjoy: When golden and crispy, remove the potatoes from the air fryer. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, grated Parmesan, or a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve hot for the best crunchy texture.
Notes
- Use uniformly sized potatoes for even cooking.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation.
- Use enough oil to achieve a golden crust without making potatoes greasy.
- Flip potatoes halfway through cooking for even crispiness.
- Serve immediately to maintain crunchy texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Air Fryer, Smashed Potatoes, Crispy Potatoes, Side Dish, Quick Recipe, Healthy, Gluten Free, Vegan Friendly