Get ready to fall in love with Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes—a side dish that’s comfortingly familiar yet outrageously crispy and fun. Imagine velvety baby gold potatoes, cooked until tender, then smashed and kissed with olive oil and an aromatic blend of spices before they’re transformed into golden, crunchy bites in the air fryer. This recipe is pure joy: every bite brings a delightful mix of flavors and textures, and the process is hands-on (and surprisingly easy!). Whether you’re serving them for family dinner, a potluck, or a cozy snack, these potatoes will win everyone over. Let’s make your next side dish truly unforgettable!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how just a handful of staple ingredients can create such crave-worthy results. Each piece of this puzzle contributes to color, crispness, and that incredible all-around flavor. Don’t skip a thing—every item has its role!
- Baby gold potatoes: These little beauties are creamy and hold their shape when smashed, ensuring buttery interiors and crisp edges every time.
- Olive oil: It’s the secret to a gorgeous, golden crunch and helps all those spices stick. Use good-quality oil for the best flavor.
- Garlic powder: Gives each potato a punchy, savory base that pairs perfectly with the crispy texture.
- Onion powder: Adds gentle sweetness and depth that rounds out the flavor profile beautifully.
- Smoked paprika: Just a sprinkle provides a hint of smoky, earthy warmth—it makes the potatoes irresistible!
- Salt: Brings every flavor alive and enhances the potatoes’ natural deliciousness.
- Black pepper: Balances everything out with a subtle bite and herbaceous note.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): If you’re craving a savory kick and nutty finish, a shower of Parm is the way to go.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): A handful of green right at the end adds freshness and pops of color—don’t underestimate the power of a pretty garnish!
How to Make Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Start by placing your baby gold potatoes in a large pot of generously salted water. Bring them to a boil and let them bubble away for 15 to 20 minutes, until they’re fork-tender. You want them completely cooked inside but not falling apart. Drain and allow them to cool just enough to handle—they’ll be easier to smash and less likely to crumble!
Step 2: Smash and Season
Spread out your potatoes on a clean, flat surface (a cutting board works perfectly). Using the bottom of a sturdy glass or measuring cup, gently press each potato until it flattens but stays mostly intact. Smashed, not obliterated! Toss those little gems in a big bowl with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Every potato should be glossed in flavor.
Step 3: Air Fry for Maximum Crisp
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange your seasoned potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket—work in batches for the crispest results. Air fry for 12 to 15 minutes, carefully flipping each one halfway through, until they’re golden brown and gloriously crunchy on the edges. If you want that Parmesan magic, sprinkle it on during the last two minutes of cooking so it melts and toasts up beautifully.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
As soon as your Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes come out piping hot and crisp, finish them with a flourish of chopped fresh parsley or a final dusting of Parmesan. Serve them right away—they’re at their best when you can hear the crunch!
How to Serve Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes
Garnishes
Nothing turns these potatoes into a showstopper like the right finishing touches. A fresh sprinkle of chopped parsley adds color and freshness, while a handful of extra Parmesan or a quick hit of flaky sea salt makes every bite restaurant-worthy. For a zesty punch, try a squeeze of lemon or a dash of your favorite chili flakes.
Side Dishes
Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes are the ultimate chameleon—they complement almost any main course. Pair them with grilled chicken, steak, roasted fish, or pile them alongside simple sautéed greens for an all-veggie feast. They’re also fantastic with burgers or as part of a hearty brunch spread.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to surprise your guests or just have a little fun, stack your potatoes on a platter drizzled with aioli, serve on a bed of baby arugula, or top each with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chives. Turn them into handheld appetizers with toothpicks or plate them on a wooden board with dips for an effortlessly chic party vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes (lucky you!), let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. They won’t be as shatteringly crisp straight from the fridge, but a quick reheat will revive them!
Freezing
While these potatoes are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them if needed. Place cooled, cooked potatoes on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a zip-top bag. They’ll keep for up to 1 month, though texture may change a bit on reheating.
Reheating
The air fryer shines here, too! Reheat leftover potatoes at 400°F for about 5 minutes until hot and crisp again. If you don’t have the air fryer handy, a hot oven or toaster oven (425°F for 8–10 minutes) does the trick. Microwave reheating will make them soft rather than crispy, so use only if you’re in a major rush.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Side Dish
Absolutely! Baby red potatoes or fingerling potatoes work well if you can’t find baby golds. Simply aim for potatoes that are small and thin-skinned—it makes the smashing and crisping process fuss-free.
How do I make these potatoes even crispier?
For super-crunchy results, let the smashed potatoes air-dry for around 10 minutes before air frying. This removes surface moisture, allowing the edges to brown even more beautifully. Don’t crowd the air fryer basket; crispness loves space!
Are Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes gluten-free?
Yes! As written, there are no gluten-containing ingredients in this recipe. They’re a perfect gluten-free side dish—and if you want to keep them dairy-free, just skip that optional Parmesan.
What dipping sauces go well with Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes?
Oh, you have options! Classic aioli, ranch, spicy ketchup, or even a zesty yogurt dip pair wonderfully. For a bold twist, serve them with Sriracha mayo or chimichurri—you’ll never look at potatoes the same way again.
Can I prep Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes in advance?
Definitely—boil and smash your potatoes earlier in the day, then store (covered) in the fridge until you’re ready to air fry. When it’s time to eat, season and crisp them up fresh for the best flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
Give these Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes a try, and you’ll see why they’re everyone’s new favorite. With their mighty crunch, fluffy centers, and easy prep, your table will never be without them again. Happy cooking!
