There’s something wildly satisfying about squishing a tiny potato flat and hearing that soft little crunch. These Crispy Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes are all over my feed right nowpuffed up, golden, crispy, and begging to be dipped. Pinterest-worthy, sure. But seriously delicious.
This easy recipe starts with buttery little creamer potatoes, a quick boil, a good smash, then into the air fryer until they’re shatteringly crisp. Think hash browns meet roasted potatoes, but cuter and crispier. Pantry staples. Magic results. Full details in the blog!
I first made these on a Tuesday when everyone was hangry and the fridge looked empty. Turns out, a bag of air fryer mini potatoes and a dream goes far. Family devoured them in minutes. I tested it three waysyou’ll love the secret for ultra crisp edges!
Why You’ll Love These Crispy Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
Minimal ingredients, maximum crunch: Just 5 simple pantry staples transform little creamer potatoes into crispy perfection.
No frying, no fuss: The air fryer makes these golden and shatteringly crisp without the mess (or extra oil) of deep frying.
Versatile and nostalgic: Whether it’s a dinner side or an afternoon snack, these remind me of Sunday suppers at grandma’s house but with a modern twist. Comfort food done right!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps it simple, yet flavorfulperfect for when you want something cozy without much effort. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredient
Amount
Notes
Baby gold potatoes
1 lb (8-10 small potatoes)
Creamy and perfect for smashing.
Butter
1 tablespoon, melted
For rich, golden flavor.
Olive oil
2 tablespoons
Helps achieve those crispy edges.
Garlic powder
½ teaspoon
For a warm, garlicky kick.
Black pepper
½ teaspoon
Adds flavor depth.
Salt
To taste
Brings out all the flavors.
Fresh parsley
2 tablespoons, finely chopped
Optional, but adds color and freshness.
Pro Tip: Can’t get baby gold potatoes? Any waxy small potatoes (like red or creamers) will dothey hold their shape well after boiling.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
Prep the potatoes: Rinse the mini potatoes well, then boil them in salted water until fork-tender (about 10-12 minutes). Drain and let cool slightly.
Smash away: Lay the potatoes on a baking sheet or cutting board. Use a flat-bottomed glass or a fork to gently press each potato down until flattened but still intact.
Season them up: Brush the smashed potatoes with melted butter and olive oil, then sprinkle with garlic powder, black pepper, and a pinch of salt.
A long air fryer joyride: Place the potatoes in the air fryer in a single layerdon’t overcrowd! Cook at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until the edges are golden and crispy.
Note: The exact time may vary depending on your air fryer model. Keep an eye on those little potatoes as they crisp up for best results!
Timing Chart for Perfect Potatoes
Step
Time
Boil potatoes
10-12 minutes
Smash and season
5 minutes
Air fry
10-12 minutes
Troubleshooting & Hacks
Even the simplest recipes can have their momentsno judgment! Here are some tips to keep things easy and foolproof:
If your potatoes stick when smashing: Try brushing a little olive oil onto your glass or fork before pressing.
No air fryer? Bake at 450°F on a lined baking sheet for 25 minutes, flipping halfway. Still crispy, still delicious!
Want ultra-crisp edges? Use a little extra olive oil when seasoning before tossing into the air fryer.
Storage Tips (If You Have Any Leftovers)
Method
How To
Best By
Refrigerate
Store in an airtight container.
2-3 days
Reheat
Pop back into the air fryer for 3-4 minutes at 350°F.
Eat immediately after reheating.
Note: These potatoes are best fresh, but the air fryer works magic in reviving leftovers!
Serving Ideas & Variations
Classic crispy side: Pair with roast chicken, burgers, or grilled steak for a hearty meal.
Nostalgic snack: Serve with ketchup, sour cream, or your favorite dipjust like those crispy Sunday hash browns.
Get a little fancy: Sprinkle with parmesan or add a squeeze of lemon for a zesty touch!
Pro Tip: These crispy air fryer mini potatoes make a charming platter for parties or potlucks. Trust me, they’ll be gone in a flash!
Expert Insight: Mastering Crispy Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
Achieving crispiness in air fryer smashed potatoes hinges on selecting the right potato variety and ensuring they’re thoroughly dried before cooking. This technique maximizes surface crunch while preserving a tender interior, making crispy air fryer smashed potatoes a simple yet satisfying side dish.
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The Journey to Crispy Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
Getting these crispy air fryer smashed potatoes just right took a handful of kitchen experimentsand yes, a few burnt edges along the way. But after testing different potato types and smashing techniques, I finally landed on a recipe that’s perfectly crunchy on the outside and tender inside, all thanks to a lot of delicious trial and error.
FAQs ( Crispy Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes )
What type of potatoes are best for air fryer smashed potatoes?
Small waxy potatoes like baby potatoes, fingerlings, or creamer potatoes work perfectly for this recipe. These mini potatoes hold their shape well when boiled and create the ideal texture when smashed. Their thin skin gets beautifully crispy in the air fryer while maintaining a fluffy interior. Avoid large russet potatoes as they tend to fall apart too much when smashed.
Do I need to boil potatoes before air frying?
Yes, you should boil the little potatoes first until they are fork-tender, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes depending on size. This pre-cooking step ensures the inside becomes fluffy and creamy. After boiling and cooling slightly, you can gently smash them and then air fry for that perfect crispy exterior. Skipping the boiling step will result in potatoes that are crispy outside but still hard inside.
What temperature and time should I use for airfryer mini potatoes?
Air fry your smashed potatoes at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes for optimal crispiness. Start checking at the 12-minute mark to ensure they don’t overcook. The exact timing may vary depending on your air fryer model and the size of your potato pieces. You want them golden brown and crispy on the outside with edges that look slightly charred for maximum flavor.
How do I get my smashed potatoes extra crispy?
For maximum crispiness, make sure to pat the boiled potatoes completely dry before smashing and seasoning. Use a generous amount of olive oil or melted butter, and don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Press the potatoes down firmly when smashing to create more surface area for crisping. A light dusting of cornstarch before air frying can also help achieve an even crispier exterior.
Can I make air fryer smashed potatoes ahead of time?
You can prep these air fryer little potatoes partially ahead of time by boiling and smashing them earlier in the day. Store the smashed potatoes covered in the refrigerator, then season and air fry them when ready to serve. However, they’re definitely best enjoyed fresh from the air fryer when the exterior is at peak crispiness. Reheating will work but won’t quite match that initial crispy texture.
Final Crispy Thoughts
These crispy air fryer smashed potatoes come together in under 30 minutes with little fuss and big crunch. You’ll love that golden, buttery biteperfect for those cozy family dinners or last-minute snacks that everyone fights over. Seriously, this recipe makes kitchen magic with pantry staples and a pinch of love.
Try tossing in fresh rosemary or a sprinkle of parmesan for a quick twist. Leftovers? Reheat in the air fryer to revive that crispy edgetrust me, it’s a game changer. A little tip I stole from a fellow foodie: a splash of lemon zest brightens the whole dish right before serving.
Did this bring back any cozy potato memories? Share your photos, swaps, or funny kitchen moments belowI’m all ears! Pass this recipe along and watch how fast those little potatoes disappear. Happy smashing, friends!
Say hello to the crispiest air fryer smashed potatoes; fluffy on the inside with buttery, crisp edges. This Air Fryer Mini Potato Recipe is quick and easy with just 5 ingredients. Enjoy crispy, garlicky Mini Potatoes Air Fryer for a delicious side dish or appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
1 lb baby gold potatoes about 8 – 10 small potatoes
1 tablespoon butter melted
2 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste
2 tablespoon fresh parsley finely chopped
Instructions
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
Boil the baby gold potatoes until tender about 15 minutes.
Drain and let potatoes cool slightly.
Place potatoes on a baking sheet and smash each potato gently with a fork or potato masher until flattened but still in one piece.
Brush melted butter and olive oil over the smashed potatoes.
Sprinkle garlic powder, black pepper, and salt evenly over potatoes.
Air fry for 15 minutes or until golden and crispy.
Sharing a handpicked collection of easy, healthy recipes made in our family kitchen. Rachel brings comforting classics, while Emily adds fresh, modern ideas together creating meals that are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly.
