Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes

Name: Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds baby potatoes (washed and dried); 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin); 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder; 0.5 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 0.25 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)

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By: Maria
Posted: 05/20/2025

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious way to elevate your side dishes, Air Fryer smashed potatoes are your perfect go-to recipe. Ready in under an hour, these crispy delights will leave everyone reaching for seconds. The air fryer efficiently transforms soft potatoes into golden-crisp bites, ensuring your guests will savor every mouthful.

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Growing up, weekend dinners at Grandma’s were my absolute favorite. Her innovative twists on traditional recipes never failed to amaze the family. When she introduced air-fried versions of her famous smashed potatoes, the meal quickly became legendary. The aromas of Roasted Potatoes and fresh herbs instantly bring back memories of those cherished family gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines simplicity with mouth-watering results. The Air Fryer ensures a crispy exterior without needing excessive amounts of oil, making it a healthier choice. Quick, convenient, and minimal clean-up make this dish an ideal option for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans. Moreover, the versatility of toppings means you can adapt these potatoes to suit any taste preference.

Ingredients Notes

Opt for small Yukon Gold or baby red potatoes for the best texture. Their thin skins make them ideal for smashing without peeling. A generous sprinkle of your favorite herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, can elevate the flavor profile. For cheese lovers, a light dusting of Parmesan adds a delightful umami touch.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Boil potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. They should be easily pierced with a fork.

Step 2

Drain the boiled potatoes and let them cool slightly. Preheat your Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).

Step 3

Place cooked potatoes on a cutting board and gently press with a fork or potato masher to flatten slightly.

Step 4

Arrange smashed potatoes in the Air Fryer basket without overcrowding. Spray or brush lightly with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and chosen herbs.

Step 5

Air fry for 15-20 minutes, turning half-way through, until crispy and golden. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Storage Options

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer for 5-6 minutes until warmed up. For longer storage, freeze the smashed potatoes and reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes.

Variations & Substitutions

For a vegan option, swap out the Parmesan for nutritional yeast. Add a spicy kick with a sprinkle of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Experiment with different herbs like dill or cilantro to match your main course flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Smashed potatoes make a fantastic side for grilled meats or roasted vegetables. Serve them at your next barbecue or family potluck to impress your guests. Pair with a tangy dipping sauce, like garlic aioli, for a perfect appetizer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other potato varieties? Absolutely, but keep in mind that starchier potatoes like Russets may not hold as well when smashed. Stick to waxy varieties for the best results.

How can I make these potatoes ahead of time? You can boil and smash the potatoes a day ahead. Keep them in the fridge and air fry just before serving to ensure crispness.

What if I don’t have an air fryer? You can achieve similar results in an oven. Lay the smashed potatoes on a baking sheet and roast at 425°F (220°C) for about 25 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare the smashed potatoes in advance to save time?

Yes, you can boil and smash the potatoes up to a day in advance. Store the smashed potatoes in a single layer in the refrigerator, covered, until ready to air fry. Before serving, simply preheat your air fryer and cook the potatoes for 15-20 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden. This allows you to streamline your meal preparation and have a quick and easy side dish ready when you need it.

What are the best potato varieties to use for this recipe?

For the best results, use Yukon Gold or baby red potatoes. Their thin skins allow for easy smashing and they maintain a delightful texture when air fried. While other varieties can be used, avoid overly starchy potatoes like Russets, as they may not hold their shape as well after being smashed. The waxy texture of Yukon Gold and baby red potatoes ensures a crispy exterior and a tender interior.

How do I know when the smashed potatoes are perfectly cooked in the air fryer?

The potatoes are perfectly cooked when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can check for doneness by carefully lifting a potato with a spatula to assess the crispness. The internal temperature should be hot, and the potato should be soft inside. The aroma of roasted potatoes and herbs will also be a good indicator that they are ready to be served.

Can I double or triple the recipe to serve a larger group?

Yes, you can scale up the recipe, but you may need to cook the potatoes in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. If doubling the recipe, you might need to air fry in two separate batches, ensuring each batch gets the proper cooking time. When tripling the recipe, consider using multiple air fryers or using the oven method described in the recipe. Adjust the seasoning and herbs proportionally to the amount of potatoes used.

Are there any nutritional benefits to eating air fryer smashed potatoes?

Yes, air fryer smashed potatoes offer several nutritional benefits. Potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. By air frying instead of deep-frying, you significantly reduce the amount of added oil, making this a healthier side dish option. The herbs you add, such as rosemary or thyme, also provide antioxidants and additional flavor without extra calories.

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Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes

Try this quick and easy air fryer smashed potatoes recipe for a delicious side dish or snack!

Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1.5 pounds baby potatoes washed and dried
2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin
0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
0.5 teaspoon salt or to taste
0.25 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Boil the baby potatoes in a pot of salted water until fork-tender, about 10 minutes.
Drain the potatoes and transfer them to a baking sheet. Use a fork or a potato masher to gently smash each potato.
Drizzle the smashed potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket. Cook for 15 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.