Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe
If you love your spuds tender on the inside, outrageously crispy on the outside, and bursting with flavor, these Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes are about to become your new favorite obsession. This dish takes humble baby potatoes and transforms them into a totally addictive side you’ll want to make on repeat! With their perfectly golden edges, pop of smoked paprika, and irresistible sprinkle of Parmesan, these potatoes are proof that simple ingredients can turn into something showstopping. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight side or a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes have you covered.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how a handful of kitchen staples can create a side dish with such vivid flavor and texture. Each ingredient is extra important—adding its own flair to the finished potatoes—so don’t skip any if you want maximum crispy, savory goodness!
- Baby potatoes: The natural creaminess of baby potatoes guarantees a fluffy inside and perfectly crisped skin.
- Olive oil: Just a splash is key for golden brown crust and that restaurant-style crunch without deep frying.
- Garlic powder: This gives your smashed potatoes a lovely, garlicky backbone, mingling right into every bite.
- Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle touch of smokiness and the prettiest pop of color—regular paprika works too in a pinch!
- Salt: No bland spuds here. Salt brings out all the flavors and ensures each bite sings.
- Black pepper: A hint of pepper adds warmth and rounds out the savory notes beautifully.
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): This is optional, but the fresh hit of herbs right before serving brightens everything up.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): For those who want an extra umami punch, a sprinkle of Parm is the finishing touch you didn’t know you needed.
How to Make Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes
Step 1: Boil and Prep the Potatoes
Start by giving your baby potatoes a good rinse and placing them in a large pot of well-salted water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until a fork slides in easily. Drain and let them cool just enough to handle—this makes them easier to smash without burning your fingers!
Step 2: Smash with Style
Transfer the cooked potatoes to a baking sheet or cutting board. Using the flat bottom of a sturdy glass (wine glasses work great!), press each potato gently until it flattens to about 1/2 inch thick. This step is oddly satisfying, and gives you lots of craggy edges that will crisp up in the air fryer.
Step 3: Season and Toss
Pop your smashed potatoes into a bowl, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle on the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, then toss carefully. Make sure every nook and cranny is coated—this is where the real magic happens and ensures every bite bursts with flavor.
Step 4: Air Fry Until Crispy
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the seasoned smashed potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If you have a smaller air fryer, cook in batches for best results! Air fry for 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until each piece is gloriously golden brown and crisp on the edges.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve Hot
Once crisped to perfection, transfer your Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes to a plate. Shower them with chopped parsley and sprinkle grated Parmesan over the top while they’re still hot so it melts in just a bit. Serve immediately for the ultimate crunchy experience!
How to Serve Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes
Garnishes
These potatoes come alive with a few thoughtfully chosen garnishes. A big handful of fresh parsley brings brightness and color, while a generous dusting of grated Parmesan gives a savory, melty finish. Feeling bold? Try a squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of your favorite aioli for a zippy twist!
Side Dishes
Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes are the perfect wingman for just about any main—think grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or burgers off the grill. They’re also right at home next to a crisp green salad or simple sautéed greens, making them super versatile for both casual dinners and more festive meals.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress? Pile your Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes on a big platter and scatter with microgreens, toasted seeds, or even a few crumbles of blue cheese. For party snacks, top each potato with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chives. Mini loaded potato bites, anyone?
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes (it’s rare, but it happens!), let them cool completely, then refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 3 days. They’ll stay tasty and are easy to reheat for snacking or future meals.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze your fully cooked, cooled smashed potatoes. Once they’re cool, arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Frozen potatoes keep for up to 2 months; just thaw before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
To revive leftover Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes, pop them back in the air fryer at 375°F for 4–5 minutes, or until hot and crisp again. The oven works too: bake at 400°F for 8–10 minutes. Avoid the microwave—it softens the crisp edges.
FAQs
Can I use larger potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just cut them into halves or quarters before boiling and smashing. The main thing is to keep all pieces roughly the same size so they cook evenly and get that signature crispiness.
How do I make these Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes vegan?
Simply skip the Parmesan or swap in a plant-based grated cheese. Every other ingredient is already vegan-friendly, so it’s easy to adapt for plant-based diets.
What other spices can I use?
Get creative! Ranch powder, Cajun seasoning, Italian herbs, or even a little curry powder all play beautifully with potatoes. Experiment with your favorites and make each batch unique.
Why are my smashed potatoes not crispy?
Make sure the potatoes are air-dried for a few minutes before seasoning and air frying. Overcrowding the basket or skipping the olive oil can also lead to less crispiness, so give them space and make sure each one is well coated with oil.
Can I prep these ahead of time for a party?
Definitely! Boil and smash the potatoes the day before, refrigerate, then toss with oil and seasonings right before air frying for best results. This way, you can have hot, fresh Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes ready in minutes when guests arrive.
Final Thoughts
Once you try these Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes, they just might steal the show at your table. I hope you whip up a batch soon and discover just how crave-worthy homemade crispy potatoes can be. Gather your ingredients, fire up that air fryer, and get ready to share (or not!) every last crunchy bite.
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Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 40–45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes are a crispy and flavorful side dish that’s easy to make. Baby potatoes are smashed and seasoned before being air fried to golden perfection. Garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan for an extra kick of flavor.
Ingredients
Baby Potatoes:
- 1 1/2 pounds baby potatoes
Seasoning:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
- Optional grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Boil Potatoes: Place potatoes in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender, then drain and let cool slightly.
- Prepare Air Fryer: Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Smash Potatoes: On a baking sheet or cutting board, gently smash each potato with the bottom of a glass to about 1/2-inch thickness. Transfer to a bowl.
- Season Potatoes: Toss smashed potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Air Fry: Arrange potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove from air fryer and garnish with parsley and Parmesan if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, let smashed potatoes air-dry for a few minutes before seasoning.
- You can also add seasoning blends like ranch powder, Cajun seasoning, or fresh herbs.
- Works well with Yukon Gold or red baby potatoes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: about 5–6 potatoes
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
