If you are looking for a snack or side that is irresistibly crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside, the Crispy Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe is about to become your new best friend. This dish combines the cozy comfort of boiled baby potatoes with the magic of an air fryer to achieve that perfect golden crispness without drowning in oil. The blend of garlic, sea salt, and cracked black pepper infuses each bite with layers of flavor, while a quick air-fry finish adds a satisfying crunch that is downright addictive. Whether you’re serving them up for a family dinner or a casual gathering, these smashed potatoes hit all the right notes every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple yet essential ingredients come together to create the ultimate crispy texture and full-bodied flavor in your Crispy Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role, from the creamy baby potatoes to the punchy seasoning and luscious olive oil that brings everything together.
- 2 lbs baby potatoes: Choose small, uniform-sized potatoes for even cooking and an ideal bite-sized smash.
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps create that irresistible golden crust during air frying.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Infuses a mellow, savory depth without overpowering the natural potato flavor.
- 1 tsp sea salt: Enhances all flavors and ensures every corner of the potato is perfectly seasoned.
- ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper: Adds a subtle spiciness and aroma that lifts the entire dish.
- Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish): A sprinkle of parsley or chives adds color and a fresh herbal note to finish.
How to Make Crispy Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Begin by giving the baby potatoes a good rinse under cold water to remove any dirt. Then, boil them in salted water until they are fork-tender, usually around 15 to 20 minutes. This cooking method softens the potatoes through and through, setting the stage for a satisfying smash without falling apart.
Step 2: Smash with Care
Once the potatoes have cooled slightly, place them on a lined baking sheet. Using a potato masher or even the bottom of a sturdy glass, gently press down on each potato until it just flattens but remains in one piece. This smashing action increases the surface area for crisping while keeping the inside beautifully fluffy.
Step 3: Season and Oil
Drizzle the smashed potatoes generously with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle on the garlic powder, sea salt, and freshly cracked pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to toss them around, ensuring each potato is coated evenly. The oil not only helps with the crisping process but also carries and intensifies the seasoning flavors.
Step 4: Air-Fry to Crispy Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the smashed potatoes in a single layer inside the basket, making sure they have a little breathing room to crisp up evenly. Cook for about 12 to 15 minutes, turning once halfway through, until they reach a beautiful golden brown with crunchy edges. The transformation here is nothing short of magical!
How to Serve Crispy Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Crispy Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe, sprinkle freshly chopped herbs such as parsley, rosemary, or chives on top. Not only do these add a pop of vibrant green and make the dish look more inviting, but they also bring a fresh herbal brightness that beautifully contrasts the rich, crispy potatoes.
Side Dishes
These crispy smashed potatoes are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with a wide variety of mains. Think juicy grilled chicken, seared steak, or even a hearty vegetarian chili. Their crispy texture and savory seasoning complement protein dishes by adding crunch and flavor complexity without overpowering the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these smashed potatoes with a variety of dipping sauces like garlic aioli, spicy sriracha mayo, or tangy sour cream. You can also turn them into loaded bites by topping each potato with shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, or green onions. The Crispy Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe lends itself to endless customization and presentation flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover crispy smashed potatoes, they store wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them from becoming soggy, try to separate layers with parchment paper.
Freezing
While these potatoes are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked smashed potatoes. Flash freeze them on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Reheat directly from frozen for a quick snack or side.
Reheating
To bring back their signature crispiness, reheat leftover smashed potatoes in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes, turning halfway through. Avoid microwaving, which tends to make them mushy and lose their delightful texture.
FAQs
Can I use regular-sized potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Yes, you can, but baby potatoes work best because their small size allows for quicker cooking and easier smashing. Larger potatoes will take longer to cook and may be harder to smash evenly.
Do I need to peel the potatoes before cooking?
No need to peel! The skin adds extra texture, nutrients, and flavor. Plus, it crisps up nicely in the air fryer, providing a wonderful contrast to the creamy interior.
Can I use a regular oven instead of an air fryer?
Absolutely! Bake the smashed potatoes on a lined baking sheet at 425°F (220°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
What air fryer size is best for this recipe?
A standard medium-size air fryer (about 3-5 quarts) works perfectly. Just make sure not to overcrowd the basket so each potato can crisp up properly.
Can I add other seasonings to this recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with smoked paprika, onion powder, or even a sprinkle of parmesan cheese before air frying for extra flavor and a delicious twist.
Final Thoughts
If you are craving something crispy, comforting, and full of flavor, the Crispy Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe is going to blow you away. It’s ridiculously easy to whip up, endlessly customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try soon—you might just find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again for your next snack or meal accompaniment!
Print
Crispy Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes are a simple and tasty side dish featuring tender boiled baby potatoes smashed and air-fried to golden, crispy perfection. This easy recipe combines garlic powder, sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper with extra virgin olive oil to create a flavorful, crunchy treat that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
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 potatoes: Thoroughly rinse the baby potatoes under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Boil the potatoes: Place the potatoes in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and allow them to cool slightly.
- Smash the potatoes: Arrange the boiled potatoes on a lined baking sheet. Gently smash each potato using a potato masher or the bottom of a glass to flatten slightly, but not so much that they fall apart.
- Season the potatoes: Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil over the smashed potatoes. Sprinkle evenly with garlic powder, sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Toss gently to coat all pieces uniformly.
- Air-fry the potatoes: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the seasoned smashed potatoes in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the potatoes turn golden brown and crisp on the edges.
- Garnish and serve: Optionally, sprinkle fresh herbs over the crispy smashed potatoes to add a burst of color and flavor before serving.
Notes
- Boiling the potatoes until fork-tender ensures they smash easily without falling apart.
- You can use any fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or rosemary for garnish.
- For extra crispiness, flip the potatoes halfway through air frying.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, these can be baked in a preheated 425°F oven for about 20-25 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning to taste; adding a pinch of smoked paprika can add a lovely smoky flavor.
