Roasting Red Potatoes In An Air Fryer: Quick, Easy, Delicious!

Air fryers have changed the way we cook, and they are perfect for making roasted potatoes. The circulating air crisps the outsides with an impeccable golden crust, while the insides remain soft, tender and incredibly flavorful. Air frying also reduces the amount of oil you need, making roasted potatoes a healthier choice.

The cooking time depends on the type of potato and the air fryer model, but generally, it takes around 10 minutes to roast red potatoes in an air fryer.

How to prepare the potatoes for roasting

Preparing potatoes for roasting in an air fryer is simple and can be done in a few easy steps.

Firstly, you'll want to wash the potatoes thoroughly, especially if you're leaving the skins on—which is recommended for added crispiness and nutrients. You can use a vegetable brush to scrub the potatoes and remove any eyes or scars.

Next, cut the potatoes into uniform, bite-sized pieces. Aim for about 1-inch cubes or slightly smaller, around ½” to ¾” thick. This will ensure even cooking.

Then, in a medium-sized bowl, combine the potatoes with your desired seasonings and oil. You can use a variety of seasonings, such as Italian seasoning, garlic (freshly minced or powder), salt, pepper, paprika, and Parmesan cheese. For the oil, extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its ability to help crisp up the potatoes and add flavor. Give the potatoes a good toss to ensure they are evenly coated.

Once your potatoes are prepared and seasoned, they are ready to be placed into the air fryer basket. Spread them in a single layer to ensure even cooking and maximum crispiness.

And that's it! You're now ready to start air-frying your delicious roasted potatoes.

The best oil to use for roasting red potatoes

Roasted red potatoes are a delicious and easy-to-make side dish. They are soft and tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. The key to achieving this perfect texture lies in using the right oil and cooking method.

When choosing an oil for roasting red potatoes, there are two important factors to consider: flavour and smoke point.

Flavour

You want an oil that will enhance the natural flavour of the potatoes without overpowering them. Oils with a neutral flavour are best for this, as they allow the spices and seasonings you use to shine through.

Smoke Point

The smoke point of an oil is the temperature at which it starts to smoke and burn. This is important because if the oil burns, your potatoes will too. Therefore, you need to choose an oil with a smoking point higher than the roasting temperature. For roasting potatoes, oils with a medium, medium-high, or high smoke point are ideal.

Recommended Oils for Roasting Red Potatoes

• Vegetable Oil (400°Fahrenheit): Vegetable oil is a common household oil with a neutral flavour. It is perfect for roasting potatoes at medium heat without burning.
• Canola Oil (400°Fahrenheit): Canola oil is similar to vegetable oil in both taste and smoke point. It is another neutral-flavoured oil that won't interfere with the spices you use.
• Sesame Oil (410°Fahrenheit): Sesame oil has a delightful nutty flavour and a high smoke point, making it ideal for roasting at medium-high heat.
• Grapeseed Oil (420°Fahrenheit): Grapeseed oil has a distinctive, subtle flavour and a high smoke point, making it a great choice for roasting potatoes at higher temperatures.
• Olive Oil (450°Fahrenheit): Olive oil is a popular choice for roasting and has a considerably high smoke point. It adds flavour to roasted potatoes and is perfect for high-heat roasting.

Other oils with high smoke points that can be used for roasting red potatoes include sunflower seed oil (440°F) and avocado oil (520°F).

Tips for Roasting Red Potatoes

• Preheat your air fryer: This will help you achieve maximum crispiness.
• Don't peel your potatoes: The skin helps the potatoes crisp up and protects them from burning.
• Use a single layer of potatoes: For even cooking and maximum crispiness, arrange the potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer.
• Toss potatoes with oil and seasonings: Before placing the potatoes in the air fryer, toss them with oil and your desired seasonings to ensure even coating.
• Cook in batches: If you're making a large batch, cook the potatoes in batches to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

By choosing the right oil and following these tips, you'll be well on your way to achieving the perfect roasted red potatoes!

The ideal temperature and time for roasting red potatoes

Roasted red potatoes are a delicious and healthy side dish that can be made in an air fryer with minimal oil. The ideal temperature and time for roasting red potatoes in an air fryer depend on the desired level of crispiness and the specific air fryer being used. Here is a guide to help you achieve the perfect roasted red potatoes:

Temperature

The optimal temperature for roasting red potatoes in an air fryer is between 380°F (195°C) and 400°F. Preheating the air fryer to this temperature for about 5-10 minutes before adding the potatoes will result in crispier potatoes.

Timing

The cooking time for roasted red potatoes in an air fryer can vary depending on the desired level of doneness and the specific air fryer model. On average, it takes around 10 minutes to cook the potatoes, followed by an additional 8-12 minutes of cooking after stirring or flipping them. The total cooking time is typically around 20 minutes, but it can be adjusted based on your preferences and the air fryer's performance.

Step-by-Step Guide:

• Prepare the red potatoes by cutting them into halves or 1-inch pieces if they are larger potatoes. Poke the potatoes with a fork to allow steam to escape.
• In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with extra-virgin olive oil and your desired seasonings. Smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper are popular choices, but you can also experiment with other seasonings like Italian seasoning, Cajun seasoning, or rosemary. Ensure the potatoes are well-coated.
• Place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer. If your air fryer requires preheating, do so for 5-10 minutes at the desired temperature.
• Cook the potatoes at 380°F (195°C) to 400°F for 10 minutes. Then, flip or stir the potatoes and continue cooking for another 8-12 minutes. The total cooking time should be around 20 minutes.
• Check if the potatoes are fork-tender and crispy on the outside. If not, cook for a few additional minutes until they reach the desired texture.
• Serve the roasted red potatoes hot as a side dish or appetizer. You can garnish them with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro and serve with a dip such as ranch dressing or guacamole.

Tips for Crispy Potatoes:

• Soak starchy potatoes in cold water for 10-15 minutes before roasting to remove excess starch, and pat them dry before cooking.
• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation for even cooking and crisping.
• Instead of using cooking spray, toss the potatoes in olive oil to prevent sticking and ensure crispiness.
• Wash the potatoes thoroughly, especially if you're keeping the skin on for added crispiness and nutrition.

The best herbs and spices for seasoning red potatoes

Roasted red potatoes are a versatile side dish that can be served with almost anything. The key to achieving the perfect balance of flavours is in the herbs and spices used for seasoning. Here are some of the best herbs and spices to take your roasted red potatoes to the next level:

• Garlic Powder: A little garlic goes a long way in adding depth of flavour to the potatoes. It is a key ingredient in many seasoning blends, such as Italian seasoning and Cajun seasoning.
• Italian Seasoning: This herb blend adds a burst of flavour to your roasted potatoes. It often includes a mix of basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram.
• Cajun Seasoning: If you like a little kick in your food, Cajun seasoning is a great choice. It typically includes a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and thyme.
• Salt and Pepper: These two staples are a must for any roasted potato dish. They enhance the natural flavour of the potatoes and bring out the flavours of the other seasonings.
• Rosemary: Fresh or dried rosemary adds a distinctive, subtle flavour to your roasted red potatoes. It pairs well with other herbs and spices, creating an elegant and colourful dish.
• Oregano: Oregano is a versatile herb that can be used in a variety of dishes, including roasted red potatoes. It has an earthy, slightly bitter taste that complements the other flavours in the dish.
• Chilli Powder: For those who like their food with a kick, chilli powder adds a spicy touch to the roasted red potatoes. It also gives a vibrant red colour to the dish.
• Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a deep, smoky flavour to the potatoes, while regular paprika contributes a sweet, mild pepper flavour.
• Onion Powder: This spice adds a savoury, onion flavour to the dish without the need for fresh onions. It blends well with other spices and enhances the overall taste.
• Dried Basil and Thyme: These two herbs add extra flair to your roasted red potatoes. They complement each other well and create a unique, aromatic flavour profile.
• Other Options: You can also experiment with other herbs and spices, such as dill, sage, parsley, curry powder, cumin, or paprika. Additionally, you can add some grated Parmesan cheese to your roasted red potatoes for a nutty flavour.

When seasoning your roasted red potatoes, feel free to get creative and experiment with different combinations of herbs and spices. You can also adjust the quantities to suit your taste preferences. Remember to wash and dry the potatoes thoroughly before seasoning and cooking to ensure a crispy texture. Enjoy your delicious and flavourful roasted red potatoes!

How to store leftover roasted red potatoes

Roasted red potatoes are a delicious treat, but what do you do when you have leftovers? Here are some tips on how to store them properly to enjoy them again later:

Firstly, it is important to let the roasted red potatoes cool down to room temperature. Place them on a cooling rack or a paper towel to allow them to cool evenly. Do not cover them or put them in a container until they are completely cooled, as this can trap heat and create moisture, leading to sogginess.

Once the roasted red potatoes are cooled, you can store them in an airtight container. Make sure the container is clean and dry before placing the potatoes inside. Seal the container tightly to prevent any air or moisture from getting in. If possible, use a glass or ceramic container instead of plastic, as plastic can sometimes retain moisture.

When storing roasted red potatoes, it is best to store them whole rather than cut into smaller pieces. This helps to prevent them from drying out or becoming soggy. If you have a large number of potatoes, you can wrap them in foil or parchment paper before placing them in the airtight container. This will help to keep them fresh and prevent them from drying out.

Store the airtight container of roasted red potatoes in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to four days when properly stored. After four days, the potatoes may start to dry out or develop an unpleasant odour, so it is best to eat them within this timeframe.

If you want to store roasted red potatoes for longer than four days, you can freeze them. To do this, wrap the potatoes tightly in foil or place them in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to label the package with the date and contents before placing them in the freezer. Frozen roasted red potatoes will stay fresh for up to six to eight months.

When you are ready to enjoy your leftover roasted red potatoes, simply take them out of the refrigerator or freezer and reheat them. You can reheat them in the air fryer, oven, or microwave until they are heated through and crispy again. If you are reheating from frozen, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

By following these simple steps, you can enjoy delicious, crispy roasted red potatoes even after your initial meal. Proper storage ensures that your leftovers remain fresh, tasty, and safe to eat for several days or even months!

Frequently asked questions