Crispy Air Fryer Baby Potatoes in 30 Minutes of Joy
These Crispy Air Fryer Baby Potatoes are the perfect side dish: crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and ready in just 30 minutes! The air fryer makes cooking these little potatoes so quick and easy, and they turn out perfectly golden and crunchy every time. Plus, you can flavor them however you like! Let’s dive into the recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb baby potatoes (about 16-18 small potatoes)
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon onion powder
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1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
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1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary (optional, or any other herb you like)
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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Optional: Grated parmesan cheese or lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Prep the Potatoes:
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Wash and scrub the baby potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. If some are larger than others, slice them in half so they cook evenly. Leave the skin on for extra crispiness!
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Pat them dry with a towel to remove any excess moisture. This will help them crisp up better in the air fryer.
2. Season the Potatoes:
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In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, rosemary (if using), salt, and pepper. Make sure all the potatoes are evenly coated.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
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Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures the potatoes get that crispy outer layer right away.
4. Cook the Potatoes:
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Place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket. Try to arrange them in a single layer for the crispiest results. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
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Air fry the potatoes at 400°F (200°C) for 18-22 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. The potatoes should be golden brown and crispy on the outside when done. If they need more time, just add a few extra minutes until they’re perfect.
5. Serve:
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Once the potatoes are crispy and golden, remove them from the air fryer and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle with some grated parmesan cheese or serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Storage:
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To Store:
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These crispy potatoes are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
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To Reheat:
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Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to restore their crispiness.
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Frequently Asked Questions (Q/A):
1. Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
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Yes! You can use regular potatoes; just cut them into bite-sized pieces (about 1-2 inches) to ensure they cook evenly. The cooking time might be a bit longer, so check for doneness.
2. Can I make these potatoes ahead of time?
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These potatoes are best served right after they’re cooked for maximum crispiness. However, you can prep the potatoes (wash, cut, and season) ahead of time and store them in the fridge for a few hours. Just air fry them when you’re ready!
3. Can I add other spices or seasonings?
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Absolutely! You can customize the seasoning to fit your taste. Try adding Italian seasoning, chili powder, cumin, or even a sprinkle of ranch seasoning for something different.
4. Do I need to peel the potatoes?
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No, you don’t need to peel the baby potatoes! The skins get nice and crispy in the air fryer and add extra flavor and texture. If you prefer them peeled, feel free to do so, but it’s not necessary.
5. Can I use oil spray instead of tossing in olive oil?
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Yes! If you prefer a lighter version, you can spray the potatoes with olive oil spray before seasoning. Just make sure to give them a light coat to help the seasonings stick and crisp up.
6. Can I make these potatoes with sweet potatoes?
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Yes, sweet potatoes work well too! Just keep in mind that they might cook a little faster, so keep an eye on them and check for doneness around the 15-minute mark.
Tips for Extra Crispy Potatoes:
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Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. If you have too many potatoes, they might steam instead of crisping up. It’s better to cook them in batches if needed.
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Shake the basket halfway through cooking. This ensures all the potatoes get evenly crispy.
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For extra crispiness, you can spray them with a little bit of oil right before the final few minutes of cooking.
