Air Fryer Potatoes: Perfect Timing At 400 Degrees

Air fryers have become a popular kitchen appliance, and for good reason. They are easy to use, make healthy and tasty food, and keep the clean-up to a minimum. One of the best things to cook in an air fryer is potatoes. They turn out crispy on the outside and soft and tender on the inside. But how long do you need to cook them for?

The answer depends on the type of potato and the size. For example, baby potatoes or new potatoes will take less time than larger russet or Idaho potatoes. On average, air fryer potatoes are cooked at 400°F for 10–20 minutes, depending on the recipe and the desired level of crispiness. For example, air fryer roasted potatoes are cooked for 18–20 minutes, while air fryer baked potatoes are cooked for 35–50 minutes. It's important to note that you should always pierce the potatoes before air frying to allow steam to escape, and you don't need to wrap them in foil as this will make the skin soggy.

So, if you're looking for a quick and easy way to cook delicious, crispy potatoes, an air fryer is a great option! Just adjust the cooking time depending on the type and size of potato you're using.

How to get the perfect crispy skin

To get the perfect crispy skin on your potatoes, follow these steps:

• Leave the skin on. The oiled skin is what gives the potatoes their delicious crispy texture.
• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. This will help the potatoes achieve maximum crispiness in a shorter amount of time.
• Wash the potatoes thoroughly. Leaving the skin on means the skins contain all the nutrients, so you want to make sure they are clean.
• Use an oil spray or a drizzle of oil to coat the potatoes. This helps the seasoning stick and also promotes crispiness.
• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. The potatoes need space for the air to circulate and crisp up properly.
• Flip the potatoes during cooking. Use tongs or a spatula to turn them—shaking the basket can cause them to break apart.
• Keep an eye on the potatoes as cooking times may vary. Different types and sizes of potatoes will have different cook times.

Tips for Different Types of Potatoes

• Russets: These will air fry beautifully, crisping up with a pale golden color. Their insides will be soft and fluffy.
• Yukon Golds or Yellow Potatoes: These are a favorite for air frying as they crisp up perfectly and turn a deeper golden color due to their lower starch and higher sugar content.
• Reds: Red potatoes will turn an even darker golden brown and will be crispy coming out but will soften quickly.
• Baby Potatoes or New Potatoes: These are regular potatoes that have been harvested early. They have a high sugar content and roast perfectly in the air fryer.

How long to cook different types of potatoes

There are several types of potatoes that can be cooked in an air fryer, including Russets, Yukon Golds, Reds, and Baby/New Potatoes. Here is a guide on how long to cook each type of potato in an air fryer at 400°F:

Russet Potatoes

Russet potatoes are a great choice for air frying as they crisp up wonderfully and have a pale golden color. Their insides remain soft and fluffy with a mild flavor. For best results, cut the potatoes into uniform, bite-sized pieces before air frying. The cooking time for Russet potatoes in an air fryer at 400°F is typically around 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.

Yukon Gold Potatoes

Yukon Gold potatoes are a favorite for air frying due to their lower starch and higher sugar content, which gives them a deeper golden color and a slightly softer crisp. These potatoes will also have creamy and flavorful insides. Cut them into uniform, bite-sized pieces and air fry at 400°F for about 10 minutes, then toss and continue cooking for another 8-10 minutes or until tender and crisp.

Red Potatoes

Red potatoes will turn an even darker golden brown in the air fryer due to their higher sugar and lower starch content. They will be crispy when first removed from the air fryer but will soften quickly. Their insides will be creamy and soft. For best results, cut them into uniform, bite-sized pieces before air frying. The cooking time for red potatoes in an air fryer at 400°F is typically around 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.

Baby/New Potatoes

Baby or new potatoes are regular potatoes that have been harvested early and are therefore smaller and have thinner skin, which is ideal for crisping. They have a high sugar content and hold their shape well during cooking. When air frying baby or new potatoes at 400°F, cook them for about 10 minutes, then shake the basket or stir, and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes or until they are golden and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

How to prepare potatoes before air frying

Choosing the Right Potatoes

When choosing potatoes for air frying, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, look for potatoes that are uniform in size and free from eyes and blemishes. This will ensure even cooking and a more aesthetically pleasing dish.

The type of potato you use will also impact the final result. Here are some common options:

• Russets: These potatoes will air fry beautifully, achieving a pale golden colour and a soft, fluffy texture.
• Yukon Golds or Yellow Potatoes: A popular choice for air frying due to their lower starch and higher sugar content, resulting in a deeper golden colour and a slightly softer crisp.
• Reds: Red potatoes will turn an even darker golden brown due to their higher sugar and lower starch content. They will be crispy initially but will soften quickly.
• Baby Potatoes or New Potatoes: These are regular potatoes harvested early, with a high sugar content. They are perfect for air frying as they hold their shape and roast evenly.

Preparing the Potatoes

Once you've chosen your potatoes, it's time to prepare them for air frying. Here are the steps to follow:

• Wash the potatoes thoroughly, especially if you plan to leave the skins on (which is recommended for added crispness).
• If using larger potatoes, cut them into evenly sized pieces. This will ensure they cook through at the same rate.
• Soaking the potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes to overnight is optional but recommended to remove excess starch, resulting in crispier potatoes. Be sure to pat them dry before the next step.
• Combine the potatoes with your chosen seasonings and oil. You can use a variety of seasonings like Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, paprika, and Parmesan cheese.
• Toss the potatoes until they are evenly coated, ensuring the seasonings and oil are well distributed.
• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for maximum crispiness.
• Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer to ensure even cooking and maximum crispiness.
• Cook the potatoes for 10 minutes, then shake or stir them for even cooking. Return to the air fryer and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.

Serving Suggestions

Air fryer potatoes are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas:

• As a side dish for steak, chicken, or salmon.
• In breakfast tacos or burritos.
• With dip as an appetiser.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days and reheated in the air fryer.

What temperature to set the air fryer

The ideal temperature for cooking potatoes in an air fryer is between 390°F (200°C) and 400°F.

When cooking potatoes in an air fryer, it is important to preheat the appliance to the desired temperature. This will help to ensure that the potatoes cook evenly and achieve the desired level of crispiness.

For air fryer baked potatoes, it is recommended to preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Rub the potatoes with a small amount of vegetable oil and sprinkle them with salt. Place the potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for 30 to 45 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.

For air fryer roasted potatoes, a higher temperature of 400°F is recommended. Cut the potatoes into the desired size, leaving the skin on for extra crispiness. Toss the potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and any other desired seasonings. Place the potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for 10 minutes. Shake the basket and stir the potatoes, then cook for an additional 8 to 10 minutes, or until they are golden and tender.

It is important to note that not all air fryers are created equal, and the specific instructions may vary depending on the make and model of your air fryer. Be sure to read the manual and adjust the temperature and timing accordingly.

What to serve with air-fried potatoes

Air-fried potatoes are a versatile side dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

Breakfast Options:

• Breakfast tacos or burritos: Add some air-fried potatoes to your morning tacos or burritos for a hearty and satisfying start to your day.
• Breakfast potatoes: Pair them with chicken apple sausage and cheesy scrambled eggs for a delicious and filling breakfast.

Main Course Companions:

• Steak: Air-fried potatoes make an excellent side dish for a juicy steak dinner.
• Chicken: Whether it's a chicken main dish or chicken apple sausage, these potatoes will complement the flavours nicely.
• Salmon: For a lighter option, serve your air-fried potatoes with salmon.
• Swedish meatballs: These potatoes will also go well with Swedish meatballs for a comforting meal.

Appetizers and Dips:

• Whipped feta roasted potatoes: Turn your air-fried potatoes into an appetiser by pairing them with a dip like whipped feta.
• Chips and dip: Serve them as a crunchy companion to your favourite dip, such as hummus or a creamy vegetable dip.

Other Creative Combinations:

• Prime rib: For a more indulgent meal, air-fried potatoes are a perfect side for prime rib.
• Chimichangas: Try blending cumin, chilli powder, onion, and garlic powder for a Mexican twist on your roasted potatoes, pairing them with chimichangas.
• Greek salad: Season your potatoes with garlic, onion, oregano, basil, dill, salt, and pepper for a Greek flavour profile that will complement a Greek salad.

Remember, these are just a few suggestions, and you can get creative with your favourite combinations. Enjoy experimenting with different flavours and dishes to find your preferred pairings!

Frequently asked questions