Air-Fryer Baby Potatoes: Quick, Crispy, And Delicious!

Air fryers are a great way to cook baby potatoes. They come out crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside. You can season them with anything from olive oil, salt and pepper, to garlic powder, paprika, rosemary, or parmesan cheese. The air fryer also reduces the amount of oil you need, making them a healthier option. They're a perfect side dish to a range of meals, from steak to salmon, and can be served with a dip or sauce. They're also a great breakfast option, pairing well with eggs or an omelette. So, if you're looking for a quick, easy, and delicious way to cook baby potatoes, an air fryer is a great option!

Seasoning suggestions

There are endless ways to season baby potatoes in an air fryer, and the right seasoning will depend on your personal preference and what you plan to serve the potatoes with. Here are some seasoning suggestions to get you started:

Herbs and Spices

• Fresh or dried rosemary
• Parsley
• Thyme
• Paprika
• Smoked paprika
• Cajun seasoning
• Italian seasoning
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Pepper
• Lemon
• Chilli powder
• Curry powder

Other Ingredients

• Olive oil
• Avocado oil
• Parmesan cheese
• Sour cream
• Hot sauce
• Pesto vinaigrette
• Dipping sauces (chipotle mayo, honey mustard BBQ sauce, bang bang sauce)

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking temperature and time for baby potatoes in an air fryer vary depending on the desired texture and the size of the potatoes. However, the general cooking temperature is around 350-400°F (175-204°C), and the cooking time is around 15-25 minutes.

For crispier potatoes, it is recommended to preheat the air fryer and cook the potatoes in a single layer. Additionally, tossing or shaking the potatoes halfway through the cooking process ensures even cooking and browning.

For whole baby potatoes, a lower temperature of 390°F for 35-40 minutes is suggested.

It is important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the air fryer model and the size of the potatoes, so it is advisable to keep an eye on the potatoes during the cooking process and adjust the timing as needed.

How to prepare the potatoes

Preparing baby potatoes in an air fryer is a quick and easy process. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Firstly, select your potatoes. Baby potatoes, also known as "new" potatoes, are harvested before they are fully grown, resulting in thinner skin, which is ideal for crisping. Look for varieties such as fingerlings, Yukon golds, baby russets, or baby red potatoes at your local store.

Before seasoning, ensure the potatoes are washed and thoroughly dried. You can then slice them in half or leave them whole, depending on your preference. Leaving them whole will increase the cooking time by about 5-10 minutes.

To season your potatoes, place them in a large bowl and add olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. You can also experiment with other herbs and spices, such as rosemary, Cajun seasoning, or Parmesan cheese. Mix the potatoes until they are evenly coated with the seasoning.

Next, prepare your air fryer by lightly spraying the basket with oil. Place the seasoned potatoes inside the basket, ensuring they are in a single layer. If your air fryer requires preheating, do so according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Set the temperature to 400°F and the timer for 15-20 minutes. For even cooking, it is important to toss or shake the basket halfway through the cooking process. Check for doneness by piercing the potatoes with a fork. If they are not tender, continue cooking in 2-minute increments until they are done to your liking.

Once the potatoes are golden brown and crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside, remove them from the air fryer and serve immediately. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice or garnish with chopped herbs like parsley for an extra touch of flavour.

These air fryer baby potatoes are a versatile side dish that can be served with various main courses, such as steak, chicken, fish, or even breakfast meals. Enjoy experimenting with different seasonings and serving suggestions to find your perfect combination!

What to serve with the potatoes

Air fryer baby potatoes are a versatile side dish that can be served with a variety of main courses. Here are some ideas for what to serve with them:

Proteins

• A juicy, salty, caramelized steak. The creamier the potatoes, the better. Try a sirloin pan-fried with a side of cheesy scalloped potatoes and a robust Bordeaux red to enhance the flavours.
• Herbed or citrus-spiked chicken complements creamy potatoes well. Try Greek-style roasted chicken with crisp, lemony Greek potatoes.
• BBQ chicken.
• Tofu or soya curd. Try a vegan tofu scramble with roasted potatoes, broccoli, mushrooms, tomatoes, bell peppers, and seasonings.
• Lentils. Try a lentil burger with oven potato fries or a vegan pot pie with green pulses.
• Mild, flaky, delicate fish. Potatoes can be served as a side, added to a salad, or used as a base by placing a fillet on top of mashed potatoes.

Other Sides

• Salad.
• Vegetables.
• Gravy.
• Dip.
• Breakfast tacos or burritos.

Specific Meal Ideas

• Christmas and Thanksgiving dinner.
• Pan-seared herbed chicken or grilled lemon-lime chicken.
• Mini meatloaves.
• Dinner salads for a heartier meal.
• Maple-glazed salmon or Parmesan-breaded fish.
• Swedish meatballs.
• Salmon.
• Prime rib.

How to store leftover potatoes

Yes, you can make baby potatoes in the air fryer. In fact, air frying is considered one of the best ways to cook baby potatoes, as it makes them crispy on the outside and soft and creamy on the inside.

Now, onto storing those leftover potatoes. Here are some detailed, direct, and instructive steps to ensure your leftover potatoes stay fresh and tasty:

• Allow the potatoes to cool down to room temperature. It is important not to leave them out for more than two hours, as this could lead to food safety issues.
• Wrap each potato in plastic wrap, ensuring they are sealed tightly with no air getting inside. Alternatively, you can store them in an airtight container, such as a plastic container with a locking lid or a plastic storage bag.
• Place the wrapped potatoes or the airtight container in the refrigerator. Do not leave leftover potatoes on the kitchen counter or at room temperature, as this could lead to foodborne illnesses, such as botulism.
• Your leftover potatoes should last between 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator. If you need to store them for a longer period, consider freezing them.
• To freeze leftover potatoes, place them in the freezer individually, ensuring they are not touching each other. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight plastic bag or wrap them in aluminium foil and store them in the freezer.
• Frozen potatoes will last for up to 6 months. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat them in the air fryer or oven until hot and crispy.

Frequently asked questions