Crispy Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe
If you have a love for irresistible, crunchy-on-the-outside and tender-on-the-inside potatoes, then this Crispy Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe is going to become one of your go-to favorites. Imagine baby potatoes boiled just right, then smashed and air-fried to golden perfection—yielding a delightful crunch, accented with garlic and a touch of sea salt, all made in a flash without any heavy frying. It’s a simple yet spectacular way to elevate humble potatoes into a show-stopping side or snack that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make these crispy delights? You’ll only need a handful of straightforward, everyday ingredients that come together beautifully. Each item plays a vital role, from the creamy baby potatoes as the base to the olive oil that ensures a crisp finish, and the garlic and seasoning that bring bold flavor and aroma.
- Baby potatoes (2 lbs): Choose firm, evenly sized potatoes to ensure consistent cooking and smashing ease.
- Extra virgin olive oil (3 tbsp): This adds a rich flavor and helps achieve that perfect golden crust in the air fryer.
- Garlic powder (1 tsp): For a warm, aromatic punch without overpowering the natural potato taste.
- Sea salt (1 tsp): Enhances flavor while adding a bit of crunch when it crisps on the surface.
- Freshly cracked black pepper (½ tsp): Adds a mildly spicy note to round out the seasoning.
- Fresh herbs (optional): Parsley or chives work wonderfully to brighten and add a pop of color as a garnish.
How to Make Crispy Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Potatoes
Start by washing the baby potatoes under cold water, scrubbing gently to remove any dirt since they’ll keep their skins on. The skin adds such lovely texture and flavor! This small prep step is key to clean, tasty potatoes ready for boiling.
Step 2: Boil Until Tender
Place the potatoes in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook them until they’re fork-tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. This step softens the insides perfectly so they’ll smash easily without falling apart, providing a creamy contrast to that crispy exterior.
Step 3: Smash with Care
Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly so you can handle them comfortably. On a lined baking sheet, gently press down on each potato with a potato masher or the bottom of a glass. The goal is to flatten them without completely mashing into a purée—this creates lots of edges that get irresistibly crispy.
Step 4: Season and Oil
Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil over the smashed potatoes. Then sprinkle with garlic powder, sea salt, and cracked black pepper. Toss everything gently to make sure every surface of each potato gets that gorgeous seasoning and a touch of oil to enhance crispiness during air frying.
Step 5: Air Fry to Golden Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C), then arrange the smashed potatoes in a single layer inside. Cook for 12 to 15 minutes, turning once if needed, until they’re golden brown and have that satisfying crunch you’re after. The air fryer does the magic of crisping without excess oil or hassle.
How to Serve Crispy Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Once your potatoes are beautifully crispy, sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or even thyme right on top. Not only do herbs add a vibrant splash of green, but their fresh aroma complements the garlicky, salty notes perfectly. For an extra special touch, a little grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of truffle oil can take it over the top.
Side Dishes
This Crispy Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of mains. Serve them alongside roasted chicken or grilled steak for a comforting meal, or add them to a veggie-packed Buddha bowl for extra crunch and flavor. They also make an ideal snack or appetizer when paired with your favorite dipping sauces like garlic aioli or spicy ketchup.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress friends at your next dinner? Serve these potatoes stacked in a rustic bowl lined with parchment paper or skewer a few for a fun finger-food option. You can also spread them out on a platter and top with different seasonings like smoked paprika, lemon zest, or even a sprinkle of feta for variety in flavor and color.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though they might not last long!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep their texture as crisp as possible, make sure they cool completely before storing.
Freezing
While fresh is best, you can freeze your smashed potatoes. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months, perfect for a quick, tasty side whenever you need it.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover crisps in the air fryer at 375°F for about 5-8 minutes to regain their crunch and warmth. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the signature crispiness intact, as it tends to make them soft.
FAQs
Can I use larger potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, but baby potatoes work best because they cook quickly and smash evenly. Larger potatoes can be used but may require longer boiling and might be trickier to smash without breaking apart.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
No need at all. The skins add texture and flavor and hold the potato together during cooking and smashing, making the dish more rustic and satisfying.
Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
Absolutely! You can bake the smashed potatoes on a lined baking sheet in a 425°F oven for 20-25 minutes until crispy, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning.
Is garlic powder necessary, or can I use fresh garlic?
Garlic powder is preferred here because it crisps up nicely without burning. Fresh garlic can be added finely minced after cooking if you want a fresher garlic flavor but avoid putting it directly on the potatoes before air frying.
What dipping sauces go well with these crispy potatoes?
They’re fantastic with classic ketchup, garlic aioli, ranch dressing, or even a spicy sriracha mayo. Feel free to experiment based on your personal tastes!
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe is such a rewarding dish to whip up when you want a quick, comforting, and crave-worthy treat. The simplicity of the ingredients combined with the air fryer’s magic creates a snack or side that’s golden, crispy, and bursting with flavor in every bite. I can’t wait for you to try this out and discover your own favorite ways to enjoy these lovely potatoes!
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Crispy Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Crispy Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes are a delightful side dish featuring tender boiled baby potatoes smashed to perfection, seasoned with garlic and sea salt, then air-fried until golden and crispy. Quick to prepare and irresistibly crunchy, they are an ideal accompaniment to any meal or a tasty snack on their own.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 lbs baby potatoes
Seasoning and Oil
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
Garnish
- Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Wash Potatoes: Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt and impurities.
- Boil Potatoes: Place the potatoes in a pot with salted water and boil until they are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and allow them to cool slightly so they are easier to handle.
- Smash Potatoes: On a lined baking sheet, gently smash each potato using a potato masher or a sturdy glass until they are flattened but still hold together.
- Season Potatoes: Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil evenly over the smashed potatoes. Sprinkle garlic powder, sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper on top. Toss gently to coat the potatoes evenly with the oil and spices.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it is ready for crisping the potatoes.
- Air Fry Potatoes: Arrange the smashed potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 12-15 minutes until the potatoes become golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Serve: Remove from the air fryer and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, spray the smashed potatoes lightly with cooking spray before air frying.
- You can customize the seasoning by adding paprika, chili flakes, or parmesan cheese.
- Ensure potatoes are in a single layer in the air fryer basket to allow even cooking and crisping.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the smashed potatoes in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
