Air Fryer New Potatoes: Quick, Easy, Delicious

Air fryers are a popular kitchen appliance for cooking potatoes, and for good reason. They can cook potatoes to perfection in a fraction of the time it would take in an oven, with a deliciously crispy outside and a soft, fluffy inside. The circulating air in the fryer crisps the outsides of the potatoes with a golden crust, while keeping the insides tender and flavourful. You can use a variety of potatoes, including baby potatoes, red potatoes, gold potatoes and even purple potatoes. The key to achieving the perfect crispiness is to ensure the potatoes are spread out in a single layer in the fryer basket, so that the hot air can circulate and promote browning.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for new potatoes in an air fryer vary depending on the size of the potatoes and the desired level of crispiness.

For whole baby potatoes, preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket and cook them for 12 to 20 minutes, depending on their size. If you're cooking them for longer than 15 minutes, it's a good idea to shake the basket or toss the potatoes halfway through to ensure even cooking. You can check if they're done by piercing them with a fork; if the fork goes through easily, they're ready.

If you're cutting your baby potatoes into smaller pieces before air frying, the cooking time will be shorter. After preheating your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, place the potatoes in the basket and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, tossing them halfway through. They're done when they're golden and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

For a crispier texture, it's important to ensure that the potatoes are in a single layer in the air fryer basket, with a little space around each one. This allows the hot air to circulate and promotes even cooking and browning.

Additionally, the type of potato you use can impact the cooking time and temperature. Russet potatoes, for example, are known to crisp up nicely, while Yukon Gold or yellow potatoes may take a bit longer to achieve the same level of crispness due to their lower starch content.

Seasoning and flavouring

The circulating air in the air fryer crisps the outsides of the potatoes with a golden crust, while the insides become soft, tender, and flavourful. The air fryer also reduces the amount of oil required, making it a healthier option.

When it comes to seasoning and flavouring, there are several options to consider. Firstly, it is recommended to toss the potatoes in olive oil before placing them in the air fryer. This helps with browning and softening the potatoes during cooking.

For seasoning, a blend of garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper is a popular choice. You can make your own Italian seasoning or use a store-bought blend. Additionally, fresh or dried herbs like parsley, thyme, chives, or dill can be added for extra flavour and colour. If you're looking for a smoky flavour, smoked paprika is a great option. Simply replace the Italian seasoning with smoked paprika.

For a simple yet flavourful side dish, season the potatoes with fresh rosemary, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This combination pairs well with various meat or fish dinners. You can also add Parmesan cheese to the mix for an extra savoury kick.

If you're feeling adventurous, try Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick. A squeeze of lemon juice over the cooked potatoes can also enhance their flavour.

Remember to spread the potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space around each one to promote even browning and crisping.

Potato varieties

Air fryer potatoes are a quick and easy dish to make, and they go well with a variety of meals. They are a healthier choice than traditionally roasted potatoes, as they require less oil, and they cook faster than an oven.

When it comes to potato varieties, there are several types that work well in an air fryer. Here are some options:

• Baby potatoes or new potatoes: These are a good choice if you want smaller, bite-sized potatoes. They have a creamy texture and a mild flavour. Baby potatoes can be halved or quartered before cooking.
• Red potatoes: Red potatoes will turn a dark golden brown when roasted in an air fryer due to their high sugar and low starch content. They will be crispy initially but will soften quickly. The insides will be creamy and soft.
• Russet potatoes: These potatoes are a good option if you want a pale golden colour. They will crisp up nicely and have a soft, fluffy texture with a mild flavour. Russets are best suited for making French fries in the air fryer due to their starchy texture.
• Yukon Gold or yellow potatoes: These potatoes are a popular choice for air frying as they will crisp up nicely and turn a deep golden colour due to their lower starch and higher sugar content. Their insides will be creamy and full of flavour.

Regardless of the variety you choose, it is recommended to cut the potatoes into evenly sized pieces so that they cook uniformly. Leaving the skin on will also help to achieve a crispy texture.

Potato preparation

When preparing potatoes for air frying, it is recommended to leave the skins on, as they crisp up nicely in the air fryer. Give the potatoes a good scrub and pat them dry before cutting them into evenly sized pieces. This will ensure that they cook at a similar rate. If you are using baby potatoes, you can leave them whole.

For seasoning, you can use a variety of herbs and spices such as rosemary, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. You can also add Parmesan cheese and butter for extra flavor. Combine the potatoes with your chosen seasonings and olive oil in a medium-sized bowl and toss to coat.

When placing the potatoes in the air fryer basket, arrange them in a single layer with a little space between each potato. This will allow the hot air to circulate and promote even cooking and browning. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the potatoes in multiple batches.

Serving suggestions

New potatoes cooked in an air fryer can be served as a side dish with a variety of meals. For a weeknight dinner, pair them with a simple protein and a green salad. They go well with black bean burgers or veggie burgers, or with soup, such as butternut squash or broccoli cheddar. They can also be served with quiche or frittata, or added to a holiday menu alongside classic dishes like stuffing and green bean casserole.

Air-fried potatoes can be served with breakfast, lunch or dinner. They can be added to breakfast tacos or burritos, or served as a side to steak or chicken. They can also be served with dips, such as whipped feta, or with Swedish meatballs, salmon or prime rib.

For extra flavour, potatoes can be tossed with grated Parmesan cheese before serving, or drizzled with Italian dressing. They can also be garnished with herbs such as parsley, or with a squeeze of lemon.

Air-fried potatoes can also be served as an appetiser with dips such as ranch dressing, guacamole, or lime crema.

Frequently asked questions