The aroma of crispy air-fryer smashed potatoes wafts through the kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around. Golden-brown, crunchy on the outside, and fluffy on the inside – these little nuggets of joy promise a flavor explosion with every bite. chili lime corn salad loaded street corn potato salad basil pesto potato salad summer BLT pasta salad.
Picture this: you’re hosting a casual get-together or simply winding down after a long day. As you prepare these delightful potatoes, your family and friends can’t help but drool at the anticipation of tasting them. You can almost hear them saying, “Are we having those crispy air-fryer smashed potatoes again?” Yes, yes you are!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The crispy air-fryer smashed potatoes are not only easy to prepare but deliver an irresistible crunch that pairs perfectly with any meal
- Their golden hue makes for a visually stunning dish that adds festivity to any gathering
- Versatile enough to be seasoned in numerous ways, they can cater to any palate from spicy to savory
I remember the first time I made crispy air-fryer smashed potatoes for my family. Everyone gathered around, eagerly waiting for their crunchy goodness and all I could hear were compliments about how addictive they were.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Baby Potatoes: Choose small, firm potatoes for perfect smashing; they cook evenly and are easier to handle.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness and helps achieve that beautiful golden crunch.
Garlic Powder: A sprinkle enhances flavor without overpowering the dish; it’s like a secret weapon in your pantry. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs recipe.
Salt and Pepper: Use sea salt and freshly cracked pepper for an elevated seasoning experience.
Fresh Herbs (optional): Rosemary or thyme adds a delightful aroma and freshness; feel free to experiment.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Potatoes: Start by washing about 2 pounds of baby potatoes thoroughly under cold water. This ensures all dirt is removed before cooking.
Boil Them Up: Place the washed potatoes into a pot filled with salted water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Drain and Cool: Carefully drain the potatoes in a colander and let them cool slightly. You want them warm but manageable; nobody likes burning fingers!
Smashed Time!: Once cool enough to handle, place each potato on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using a potato masher or the bottom of a glass, gently smash each potato until flattened but still intact.
Add Seasonings: Drizzle olive oil generously over the smashed potatoes while sprinkling garlic powder, salt, and pepper evenly on top. Toss them lightly so each potato gets coated.
Airtight Crunch Time!: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the seasoned smashed potatoes in a single layer in the basket or tray of your air fryer. Cook for 12-15 minutes until they reach golden perfection. For more inspiration, check out this Air Fryer Chicken Rissoles recipe.
With these steps completed, you’ll have crispy air-fryer smashed potatoes that look as good as they taste! Enjoy every bite of this delicious creation!
You Must Know
- For the crispiest air-fryer smashed potatoes, use Yukon Golds; they have a creamy interior that contrasts beautifully with the crunchy exterior
- Don’t skip the cooling step; it helps achieve maximum crispiness
- Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra flavor kick
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the potatoes until fork-tender, then smash them gently before air-frying. Preheat your air fryer to ensure even cooking and maximum crispiness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to sprinkle your favorite seasonings over the smashed potatoes, such as garlic powder or fresh herbs. You can also experiment with different oils for varying flavors.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- The key to perfect crispy air-fryer smashed potatoes is ensuring they are evenly smashed; this increases surface area for crispiness
- Experiment with spice blends like Cajun or Italian for a flavor twist
- Always preheat your air fryer for better results and efficiency
Sharing my first attempt at making crispy air-fryer smashed potatoes quickly turned into a competition among family members to find the best dipping sauce pairings, which added so much fun.
FAQ
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, but Yukon Golds yield the best texture and flavor for crispy results.
How do I prevent my potatoes from sticking in the air fryer?
Make sure to coat them lightly in oil and avoid overcrowding in the basket.
What dipping sauces pair well with crispy air-fryer smashed potatoes?
Try ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or spicy ketchup for delicious flavor enhancements.
Crispy Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these crispy air-fryer smashed potatoes. Golden and crunchy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, they are perfectly seasoned and ready to elevate any meal or gathering. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, these little nuggets are a crowd favorite that everyone will be asking for time and time again.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs baby potatoes
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly under cold water.
- Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (15-20 minutes). Drain and cool slightly.
- On a lined baking sheet, gently smash each potato with a potato masher or glass.
- Drizzle olive oil over the smashed potatoes; sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place smashed potatoes in a single layer and cook for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
