Crispy Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe

If you’re anything like me, nothing beats a crispy, flavorful side dish that’s easy to whip up—and that’s exactly why I’m so excited to share this Crispy Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe with you. These little golden gems have that perfect crunch on the outside while staying fluffy and tender on the inside. Plus, they come together faster and cleaner than the traditional oven method. Trust me, your family and friends are going to go crazy over them, and you’ll love how simple it is to make these potatoes your new go-to snack or side.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Crispy Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe are straightforward, but each one plays an important role. You’ll want baby gold potatoes for their creamy texture and thin skins, and simple seasonings to highlight that natural flavor.

• Baby gold potatoes: Their small size means quicker cooking, and their texture crisps up just right when smashed.
• Butter (melted): Adds a rich, velvety layer of flavor that helps the potatoes get golden and delicious.
• Olive oil: Promotes browning and crispiness while keeping the potatoes moist.
• Garlic powder: Provides that lovely garlicky punch without overpowering the subtle potato taste.
• Black pepper: Adds just the right amount of spice to balance the richness.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors—you’ll want to be generous here!
• Fresh parsley (finely chopped): A fresh, herbal finish that brightens up each bite beautifully.

Variations

I love how flexible this Crispy Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe is—you can tweak it to suit your mood or dietary needs, and it still turns out fantastic every time. Here are some of my favorite ways to mix it up.

• Herb Lovers’ Delight: I’ve tossed in rosemary and thyme along with parsley for a fragrant twist that brings a little garden magic to the potatoes.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper; my family loves the subtle heat it brings without overwhelming the flavor.
• Dairy-Free Version: Swap out the butter for additional olive oil or avocado oil, and the potatoes remain just as crispy and tasty.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or cheddar during the last few minutes in the air fryer for a crispy cheesy crust my kids beg for.

How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Boil Until Tender but Not Mushy

Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a rolling boil—you want enough salt to season the potatoes as they cook, about 2 teaspoons. Toss in your washed baby gold potatoes and let them cook for 15 to 25 minutes, depending on their size. The goal here is fork-tender potatoes: soft enough that a fork slides in easily, but not so soft that they fall apart when you move them. When I first tried this, I kept overcooking the potatoes, and they turned to mush when smashed—lesson learned! Drain them and let them rest for 5 minutes so they’re safe to handle.

Step 2: Preheat and Prep the Air Fryer

Get your air fryer going at 400°F. While that’s heating up, give the basket a quick spray with non-stick or olive oil spray to prevent sticking. This is key because potatoes can easily cling and you want that crispy crust, not a mess stuck to your basket.

Step 3: Smash the Potatoes Gently but Firmly

Place the potatoes on a large sheet pan. Using the bottom of a sturdy cup or a serving fork, gently press down on each potato to “smash” it to about a half-inch thick or less. The thinner the potato, the crispier the edges get, but be careful not to pulverize them! Once smashed, salt them generously and add black pepper—this seasoning step is where the flavor really starts to shine.

Step 4: Add Fats and Seasonings

Drizzle the melted butter over the smashed potatoes first; the butter adds richness that olive oil alone can’t match. Follow with olive oil for that perfect crispy finish. Now sprinkle garlic powder, more black pepper, and another pinch of salt. Don’t be shy with the salt here—it really brings out the natural sweetness of the potatoes.

Step 5: Air Fry Until Golden and Crispy

Transfer the potatoes into the preheated air fryer basket in a single layer—make sure they don’t overlap because that will steam them instead of crisping them. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes at 400°F. Here’s a tip: Don’t flip them while cooking. Let the air fryer do its magic for irresistibly golden, crispy edges all around. The smell alone will have you checking every few minutes!

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Once they’re golden and crispy, pull them out and transfer to a serving plate. I love finishing with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley and a pinch of flaky sea salt for that extra pop of flavor and pretty presentation. Serve hot and watch them disappear fast!

How to Serve Crispy Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe

Garnishes

I usually garnish these potatoes with fresh parsley because the herbal brightness cuts through the richness of the butter and oil beautifully. For a touch of elegance and flavor, flaky sea salt is my go-to finishing touch; it adds a subtle crunch and savory burst. Sometimes I throw on a little grated Parmesan or even a squeeze of lemon juice for freshness—both excellent ways to elevate this humble snack.

Side Dishes

This Crispy Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, steak, or even a veggie-packed salad. I often serve them alongside sautéed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts to round out the meal. If I’m keeping it casual, they’re killer with a simple burger or sandwich—your typical comfort food elevated.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve arranged these smashed potatoes on a beautiful platter layered with fresh herbs and edible flowers. Another fun idea is individual servings in mini cast iron skillets, topped with a dollop of sour cream or pesto. It’s a simple trick that impresses guests without adding extra work.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge, usually for up to 3 days. Before refrigerating, I let them cool completely to keep moisture from making them soggy. When you store them properly, they retain much of their original flavor and texture.

Freezing

Freezing these smashed potatoes can be a little tricky because the texture may change. However, if you want to freeze them, let them cool fully, then flash freeze on a tray before transferring to a freezer bag. When reheated, they may not be as crispy but still taste delicious as a comforting side.

Reheating

To reheat and revive the crust, pop the leftovers back into the air fryer at 400°F for 5-7 minutes. This method brings back the crispiness much better than a microwave. Alternatively, a quick reheat under the broiler works well, but keep a close eye to avoid burning.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Crispy Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe has become one of my absolute favorites because it hits all the right notes—crispy, buttery, and easy to customize. I love how satisfying it is to get a golden crunch from just a handful of simple ingredients and no complicated steps. Whether you’re making a quick snack or a side to impress at dinner, this recipe is a total winner. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how effortless it is to make classic smashed potatoes better than ever in your air fryer!

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