Air Fryer Cube Potatoes: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Air fryers are a great way to cook potatoes, and they can be served with almost anything. They are healthier than deep-fried potatoes and are also less dangerous to cook. Air-fried potatoes are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. They are also very versatile, and you can use any type of potato, such as russet, red, or Yukon gold. You can also add different seasonings, such as garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper, to give them extra flavour.

Choosing the right potatoes

Potato Variety

The most commonly recommended potatoes for air fryer cube potatoes are Yukon Gold, Russet, Red, and Yellow potatoes. These varieties tend to have a buttery flavor and a fluffy texture, making them ideal for this cooking method. Yukon Gold and Yellow potatoes, in particular, are known for their naturally buttery flavor, while Russet potatoes are a good alternative. Red potatoes are also a great option, as they have a juicier texture and a unique level of crispiness on the outside.

Starch Content

When choosing potatoes for air fryer cube potatoes, it is essential to consider their starch content. Floury or starchy potatoes, such as Maris Piper, King Edward, or Desiree, are recommended for roasting. These potatoes will give you fluffy interiors and crispy skin when cooked correctly. However, it is important not to overcrowd the air fryer basket, as this can lead to uneven cooking.

Size and Shape

For air fryer cube potatoes, it is best to choose potatoes that are evenly sized and shaped to ensure uniform cooking. Aim for potatoes that are similar in size so that they cook at the same rate. Cutting the potatoes into cubes of approximately 2.5 cm or smaller is ideal, as larger sizes may require longer cooking times.

Peeling and Skin

While some recipes suggest peeling the potatoes, it is not always necessary. Leaving the skin on can add a rustic, woody flavor to your dish, and it also provides nutritional benefits. However, if you prefer a smoother texture or want to ensure even cooking, you may opt to peel the potatoes before cubing them.

Fresh or Frozen

Fresh potatoes are typically recommended for air fryer cube potatoes, but frozen potatoes can also be used. If using frozen potatoes, spread them in a single layer in the air fryer basket and shake them halfway through the cooking process. The cooking time for frozen potatoes will be longer, approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of the cubes.

In summary, when choosing potatoes for air fryer cube potatoes, opt for Yukon Gold, Russet, Red, or Yellow varieties that are evenly sized and shaped. Consider the starch content and adjust the cooking method accordingly. Leaving the skin on can add flavor and nutrition, but peeling is also an option. Finally, while fresh potatoes are ideal, frozen potatoes can be used with slight adjustments to the cooking process.

Preparing the potatoes

The first step in making cube potatoes in an air fryer is to select the right type of potatoes. Good options include Maris Piper, King Edwards, Red potatoes, Yukon gold, Russets, or baby potatoes.

Next, wash the potatoes and pat them dry with a kitchen towel. You can choose to peel the potatoes or leave the skin on, as it is safe to consume and adds a nice crispy texture. However, if you are using baby potatoes, it is recommended to keep the skin on as it helps in achieving the desired crispiness.

Now, it's time to cut the potatoes into cubes. For even cooking, make sure the cubes are of similar size. Place the cubed potatoes in a medium bowl.

To add flavour to your potatoes, drizzle them with olive oil and toss to coat evenly. You can also use an oil spray for this step.

Now comes the fun part – seasoning! You can get creative with the seasonings and use your favourites. Some popular options include garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, parsley, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Give the potatoes a good mix to ensure they are evenly coated with the seasonings.

Seasoning the potatoes

The beauty of air fryer cubed potatoes is that they can be seasoned in a variety of ways. The most important thing is to ensure that the potatoes are coated evenly. Here are some ideas for seasoning your potatoes:

Herb and spice combinations

You can use dried or fresh herbs and a variety of spices to season your potatoes. Here are some suggestions:

• Parsley, rosemary, garlic, pepper, salt, and olive oil
• Parsley, chilli powder, salt, and black pepper
• Parsley, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper
• Paprika, parsley, rosemary, garlic, pepper, salt, and olive oil
• Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic granules, onion powder, olive oil, salt, and pepper
• Cayenne pepper, chilli powder, or pepper flakes
• Cajun seasoning
• Garlic powder and Italian seasoning

Other additions

You can also add some other ingredients to your potatoes for extra flavour:

• Parmesan cheese
• Lemon juice
• Olive oil or avocado oil
• Cooking spray

Tips for seasoning

• If using dried herbs, you can substitute them for fresh ones.
• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. Spread the potatoes in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
• If you have time, soak the potatoes for half an hour before cooking to reduce the cooking time.
• Don't cook at too high a temperature, as this will burn the outside of the potatoes without cooking the inside. It's best to cook at a lower temperature for longer.

Cooking the potatoes

Ingredients

You can use any type of potato for this recipe, but some good options include Maris Piper, King Edwards, Red potatoes, Yukon gold, or Russets. You will also need olive oil or avocado oil, and seasonings of your choice. Some suggestions include dried parsley, rosemary, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Preparation

Start by dicing the potatoes into cubes. You can peel the potatoes if you prefer, but it is not necessary. Place the potatoes in a bowl and toss them with the oil and seasonings. Make sure that the potatoes are evenly coated.

Cooking

Preheat your air fryer to between 360-400°F. Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent the potatoes from sticking. Spread the potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the basket.

Cook the potatoes for a total of 15-25 minutes, depending on your air fryer and the size of your potato cubes. For most air fryers, you will need to shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking. The potatoes are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside.

Serving

Air fryer cubed potatoes make a great side dish and can be served with a variety of mains, such as steak, chicken, or roasted vegetables. They can also be served with a dip, such as ketchup or ranch dressing.

Serving suggestions

Cube potatoes are a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of meals, from breakfast to dinner. Here are some ideas for serving these crispy, golden, and fluffy potatoes:

As a Side Dish

Cube potatoes make an excellent side dish for a variety of meals. Serve them with:

• Steak
• Chicken
• Fish, such as salmon or tilapia
• Sausage and zucchini skillet
• Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or eggplant
• Breakfast foods like fried eggs, frittata, or a breakfast casserole

In a Taco or Burrito

Add some cube potatoes to your breakfast taco or burrito for a hearty and filling meal.

As an Appetizer

Serve the potatoes as an appetizer with a dip like Cajun mayo (a mix of Sriracha and mayonnaise), ketchup, ranch, or BBQ sauce.

With Dips

Pair the potatoes with a dip, such as whipped feta, and serve them as an appetizer or side dish.

Under a Main Course

Instead of serving the potatoes as a side, try serving them under a main course, such as a skillet meal.

In a Casserole

Cube potatoes can be added to casseroles, such as a breakfast casserole or a Fritatta.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover cube potatoes, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 4 months. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 400°F for 4-5 minutes or until they are fully heated and crispy. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the oven, microwave, or a toaster.

Frequently asked questions