Air Fryer Roasted Potatoes: The Perfect 400-Degree Timing

Air fryers have become a popular kitchen appliance, and for good reason. They can cook food faster and with less oil than traditional ovens, making them a healthier and more convenient option for many dishes. One dish that is particularly well-suited to the air fryer is roasted potatoes.

Roasted potatoes are a versatile side dish that can be served with a variety of meals, from breakfast to dinner. They are also relatively easy to prepare, requiring just a few basic ingredients: potatoes, oil, and seasonings. The type of potato, oil, and seasonings used can be varied according to personal preference, but there are a few key tips to ensure perfect roasted potatoes every time.

First, it is recommended to preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for the best results. Then, the potatoes should be cut into uniform pieces, tossed in oil and seasonings, and placed in a single layer in the air fryer basket. The cooking time will vary depending on the desired level of crispness, but generally, roasted potatoes will take around 10 minutes per batch, with an additional 8-12 minutes for a second batch if needed.

By following these simple steps, anyone can enjoy delicious, crispy roasted potatoes made right in their air fryer!

How to get the potatoes crispy

There are several ways to ensure your potatoes come out crispy when using an air fryer. Here are some tips and tricks to achieve that desired crunch:

Choose the right type of potatoes

Select potatoes with thinner skin, such as baby potatoes, fingerlings, Yukon golds, baby russets, or baby red potatoes. These varieties have a higher sugar content and will result in a crispier texture.

Cut the potatoes into uniform sizes

Ensure that all potato pieces are similar in size so they cook evenly. Cutting them into one-inch pieces or wedges is a good rule of thumb.

Soak the potatoes

Soaking the potatoes in water for 30-45 minutes helps remove excess starch, which can hinder crispiness. However, be careful not to soak them for too long, as they may absorb too much water and become soggy.

Preheat the air fryer

Preheating your air fryer to 400°F for about 10 minutes ensures that the potatoes go into a hot environment, promoting maximum crispiness.

Don't overcrowd the air fryer

Cook the potatoes in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. This allows proper air circulation, which is crucial for even cooking and crispiness.

Toss and flip the potatoes

After the initial 10 minutes of cooking, remove the basket and give it a good shake or stir to toss the potatoes. You can also use a spatula or spoon to flip them gently. This helps ensure even cooking and browning.

Use oil and seasonings

Coat the potatoes with a thin layer of oil, such as olive oil, avocado oil, or sesame oil. This not only helps the seasonings stick but also promotes crispiness. For seasonings, try a combination of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Avoid boiling or pre-cooking

There is no need to boil or pre-cook the potatoes before air frying. Doing so may make them too soft, and they won't crisp up as desired. The air fryer will cook them through perfectly while maintaining a crispy exterior.

Leave the skin on

When cutting and seasoning the potatoes, be sure to leave the skin on. The skin provides a delicious crispy texture and helps protect the potato from burning.

Allow proper air circulation

Ensure that your air fryer basket has a grid or holes in the base to allow hot air to circulate around the potatoes. This is essential for even cooking and achieving that coveted crispiness.

Adjust timing as needed

Depending on your air fryer model and the size of your potato pieces, you may need to adjust the cooking time. Keep an eye on the potatoes, and if they're not crispy enough after the initial 10 minutes, continue cooking in small increments until they reach your desired level of doneness.

How long to roast different types of potatoes

Roasting potatoes in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get a tasty, crispy result. The cooking time will depend on the type of potato you are using, as well as the size you cut them into. Here's a guide to help you get perfect roasted potatoes every time.

Baby Potatoes or New Potatoes

Baby potatoes, also known as new potatoes, are harvested before they are fully grown. They have thinner skins, which makes them ideal for crisping. Varieties include fingerlings, Yukon golds, baby russets, and baby red potatoes. When roasting these smaller potatoes, it's best to leave the skin on for maximum crispiness. You can simply cut them in half and toss them in your chosen seasonings. Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook at 400°F for 10 minutes. After that, shake the basket and stir the potatoes, then cook for another 8 to 10 minutes, or until they are golden and tender.

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are a great option for air frying, and they make a nutritious and tasty side dish. To roast sweet potato cubes in the air fryer, first, peel and cut them into 1/2-inch pieces. Then, toss them with some avocado or olive oil, and your choice of seasonings. Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. If you prefer them more crunchy, add a couple of extra minutes.

Russet Potatoes

Russet potatoes are a good choice for air frying as they will crisp up nicely with a pale golden colour. Their insides will be soft and fluffy. Cut them into uniform pieces, leaving the skin on for extra crispiness. Toss them with olive oil and your choice of seasonings. Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook at 400°F for 10 minutes. Then, toss the potatoes and continue cooking for another 8-10 minutes, or until they are tender and crispy.

Yukon Gold or Yellow Potatoes

Yukon gold or yellow potatoes are a favourite for air frying as they crisp up well and turn a deeper golden colour due to their lower starch and higher sugar content. Cut them into uniform pieces, leaving the skin on. Toss them with olive oil and your choice of seasonings. Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook at 400°F for 10 minutes. Then, toss the potatoes and continue cooking for another 8-10 minutes, or until they are tender and crispy.

Red Potatoes

Red potatoes will turn an even darker golden brown colour when roasted due to their high sugar and low starch content. They will be crispy at first but will soften quickly. Cut them into uniform pieces, leaving the skin on. Toss them with olive oil and your choice of seasonings. Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook at 400°F for 10 minutes. Then, toss the potatoes and continue cooking for another 8-10 minutes, or until they are tender and crispy.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Potatoes

• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for maximum crispiness.
• Cook in batches to ensure even cooking and maximum crispiness.
• Wash the potatoes thoroughly, especially if you are leaving the skin on.
• Use an oil spray to help the seasonings stick to the potatoes.
• Use a spatula or spoon to turn the potatoes, as shaking the basket can cause them to break apart.
• Cut the potatoes into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.

So, there you have it! A guide to roasting different types of potatoes in your air fryer. Enjoy experimenting with different varieties and seasonings to find your perfect roast potato!

How to prepare the potatoes

Ingredients

First, you'll need to gather your ingredients. The exact quantities will depend on how many potatoes you want to roast, but you'll need:

• Potatoes (Yukon gold, red, russet, baby, or new potatoes are all good options)
• Oil (extra virgin olive oil is recommended, but canola, vegetable, or avocado oil will also work)
• Salt
• Seasonings of your choice (e.g. Italian seasoning, garlic powder, black pepper, Cajun seasoning, paprika, etc.)

Preparation

Once you have your ingredients, it's time to prepare the potatoes:

• If you prefer, you can peel the potatoes. However, leaving the peel on adds texture and is more nutritious, so it's recommended to keep it on. Just be sure to give the potatoes a thorough wash/scrub.
• Cut the potatoes into uniform, bite-sized pieces. For baby potatoes, cutting them in half should be sufficient. For larger potatoes, cut them into 1-inch or 1.5-inch pieces.
• Place the potatoes in a large mixing bowl and toss them with the oil and seasonings until they are well coated.
• If you have time, let the potatoes sit and soak up the flavours for a few minutes before placing them in the air fryer.

Air Frying

Now it's time to cook the potatoes in your air fryer:

• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for about 10 minutes.
• Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the potatoes in batches.
• Cook the potatoes for 10 minutes, then give them a stir or shake.
• Cook for another 8-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside.
• Remove the potatoes from the air fryer and serve warm. You can garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme if desired.

Oil and seasoning suggestions

The oil and seasoning you use on your potatoes will make or break your dish. Here are some tips and suggestions to ensure your spuds are as tasty as possible.

Oil

The oil you use will help your potatoes develop a crispy, golden outside. Extra virgin olive oil is a popular choice as it helps the potatoes crisp up and adds flavour. However, you can also use vegetable oil or an oil spray to coat your potatoes.

Seasoning

When it comes to seasoning, the possibilities are endless. Here are some suggestions:

• Salt and pepper
• Italian seasoning
• Garlic powder
• Cajun seasoning
• Smoked paprika
• Lemon
• Parsley
• Thyme
• Rosemary
• Ranch seasoning
• Greek seasoning (garlic, onion, oregano, basil, dill, salt and pepper)
• Mexican seasoning (cumin, chilli powder, onion and garlic powder)
• Taco seasoning
• Chili lime seasoning (cumin, chilli powder and garlic powder)
• Lemon and herb seasoning (basil, oregano and dill)

You can also add some fresh thyme and garlic cloves while the potatoes are cooking, or toss the cooked potatoes in some whole-grain mustard before serving.

What to serve with air fryer potatoes

Air fryer potatoes are a versatile side dish that can be served in a multitude of ways. They are a great option for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

For breakfast, air fryer potatoes can be served with eggs and bacon for a classic diner-style meal. They can also be added to breakfast tacos or burritos for a heartier meal.

For lunch or dinner, air fryer potatoes are a delicious side dish to a variety of mains. They pair well with meat, such as steak, chicken, or salmon. They can also be served with sandwiches, burgers, or hot dogs. For a vegetarian option, air fryer potatoes can be served with roasted vegetables or a green salad.

If you're looking for a more substantial meal, air fryer potatoes can be topped with various ingredients to make a hearty dish. Some topping ideas include:

• Butter, salt, and pepper
• Sour cream and chives
• Cheddar, pepper jack, or smoked Gouda cheese
• Avocado salsa and slow-cooked Mexican shredded beef
• Bloody Mary chili, cheese, and sour cream
• Bacon and cheese
• Ranch seasoning
• Greek seasoning (garlic, onion, oregano, basil, dill, salt, and pepper)
• Whole-grain or country Dijon mustard
• Garlic aioli

Frequently asked questions