Air-Frying Red Potatoes: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Air fryers are a convenient alternative to ovens, and they can be used to cook a variety of dishes, including red potatoes. Air-fried red potatoes are a quick, healthy, and delicious side dish that can be served with almost any meal. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a subtle sweetness and creamy texture. With the air fryer, you can achieve the same rich, savoury flavour as traditional frying but with less oil and in a shorter amount of time.

How to cut red potatoes for air frying

Red potatoes are a great option for air frying. They are versatile, quick, and easy to cook. You can use a variety of seasonings to flavour the potatoes, and they make a great side dish for any meal.

To cut red potatoes for air frying, start by washing the potatoes to remove any bacteria and debris. Then, dry them thoroughly with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. This is an important step as it ensures that the seasoning will stick to the potatoes and they will turn out crispy. If your potatoes are small enough, you can cook them whole. However, if you have larger potatoes, it is recommended to cut them into even, bite-sized pieces. This ensures that the potatoes cook evenly and you get the best results. You can cut them into quarters or chop them into 1-inch pieces.

It is not necessary to peel the potatoes, and in fact, the red skin adds flavour and colour to the dish.

Seasoning and spices for red potatoes

Red potatoes are a versatile side dish that can be served with almost anything. They are low in starch and high in moisture, which makes them great for air frying. The thin skin means you don't need to peel them, and they crisp up nicely in the air fryer.

There are many different spices and seasonings you can use to flavour red potatoes in an air fryer. A simple option is to use olive oil, rosemary, salt, and pepper. You can also add fresh garlic to deepen the flavour.

For a Mexican twist, you can use cumin, chilli powder, onion powder, and garlic powder. For a Greek-inspired dish, try using oregano, basil, and dill. If you want to make your own Italian seasoning, you can use dried thyme, or replace it with parsley, chives, or dill.

Other spices and seasonings you can use include smoked paprika, Cajun or Creole seasoning, Parmesan cheese, and peri peri. You can also use a store-bought spice blend.

Air fryer temperature and timing

The ideal temperature for cooking red potatoes in an air fryer is 400°F. This temperature is standard across different air fryer models. However, the timing may vary depending on the model, the size of the potatoes, and your personal preference for crispness.

Some sources recommend cooking red potatoes at 400°F for 18–22 minutes. It is important to shake the basket or rotate the racks halfway through to ensure even cooking. The potatoes are ready when they are fork-tender in the middle and have crispy, golden brown edges.

Other sources suggest a cooking time of 15–20 minutes at 400°F. It is recommended to toss or flip the potatoes occasionally to prevent them from breaking apart and to ensure even browning. The potatoes are done when they are golden brown and tender.

It is worth noting that the size of the potatoes and the specific air fryer model can impact the cooking time. Larger potatoes may require a longer cooking time, while smaller potatoes may cook faster. It is advisable to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Additionally, for optimal results, it is crucial to arrange the potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket or tray, ensuring they are not overlapping. This arrangement allows hot air to circulate around the potatoes, promoting even cooking and browning.

How to store leftover red potatoes

Yes, you can cook red potatoes in an air fryer! They are a quick, filling, and perfectly seasoned dish that makes a great side for any meal.

Now, to answer your question about storing leftover red potatoes, here are some detailed instructions:

Storing leftover red potatoes is simple and will ensure your potatoes stay fresh and tasty for future meals. Firstly, it is important to let the potatoes cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer the leftover potatoes to an airtight container. Make sure they are not overcrowded in the container, as this can cause them to spoil faster. Store the container in the refrigerator, where the potatoes will stay fresh for 3 to 5 days.

If you wish to freeze your leftover red potatoes for longer-term storage, let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be safely stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

To reheat your leftover potatoes, you can use the air fryer, oven, or microwave until warm. For the air fryer, preheat it to 350°F and arrange the leftover potatoes in a single layer on a crisper tray or in the air fryer basket. Heat them for about 3 to 5 minutes, or until they are warmed through. For the oven, preheat it to 400°F and follow similar steps as the air fryer. Reheating in the oven may take longer due to its larger size. You can also reheat the potatoes in the microwave until they are warmed through, though this method may affect their texture.

Additionally, leftover potatoes can be transformed into new dishes, such as breakfast scrambles, skillet hashes, or breakfast burritos, offering a creative way to use up your leftovers.

What to serve with red potatoes

Red potatoes are a versatile side dish that can be served with a variety of meals. Here are some ideas for what to serve with them:

For Breakfast

Red potatoes can be served as a breakfast side dish. They can be paired with eggs, bacon, and toast for a traditional breakfast plate. For a healthier option, they can be added to a Buddha bowl with other vegetables like cucumbers, broccoli, and avocado.

With Meat

Red potatoes are a great side dish for meat-based meals. They go well with burgers, pork chops, prime rib, and chicken. For a more indulgent option, try them with a juicy steak.

With Seafood

If you're in the mood for something from the sea, red potatoes also pair well with seafood. Try them with air-fried shrimp or salmon nuggets.

With Vegetables

For a vegetarian option, red potatoes can be served with other vegetables like bell peppers, onions, squash, zucchini, and mushrooms. They can also be the star of the show in a potato-based dish like a potato salad or soup.

With Sauce

Red potatoes can be served as a side with a delicious sauce. Try them with a simple ranch dressing, ketchup, or a creamy, cheesy sauce. They can also be stuffed with cheese for an extra indulgent dish.

With Herbs and Spices

To enhance the flavor of your red potatoes, try adding some fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, basil, or rosemary. For a kick of spice, use seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or Cajun seasoning.

Frequently asked questions