Air-Fried Spuds: Quick, Crispy, And Delicious!

Air fryers are a great alternative to ovens when it comes to making spuds. They are quicker, more energy-efficient, and deliver the same crispy skin and fluffy inside texture. The process is simple: scrub and dry the potatoes, drizzle oil and rub it into the skins, season with salt and pepper, and arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Set the temperature to 200°C and cook for 40-50 minutes. You can top your spuds with butter, cheese, beans, tuna mayonnaise, sour cream, bacon bits, and more.

Choosing the right potato

The type of potato you use is important when making spuds in an air fryer. The best option is to use starchy, low-moisture potatoes such as Russets, also known as Idaho potatoes. These potatoes have a high starch content, which makes them ideal for dry heat cooking methods, resulting in a light and fluffy interior texture.

When selecting your potatoes, try to choose ones that are all the same size. This will ensure even cooking, so you don't end up with some potatoes overcooked and others undercooked.

If you can't find Russets, don't worry! You can also use yellow potatoes, sweet potatoes, or any other type of potato you have on hand. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the type and size of the potato.

For example, small red potatoes will take less time to cook than larger potatoes. So, if you're using a variety of potato sizes, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. You can always put them back in the air fryer for a few extra minutes if they need a little longer.

In addition to the type and size of the potato, it's also important to consider the number of potatoes you're cooking. Don't overcrowd your air fryer basket. Make sure to leave some space between each potato so that the heat can circulate evenly and crisp up the skins. As a general rule, four medium potatoes are the maximum recommendation for most air fryer baskets.

By choosing the right type, size, and number of potatoes, you'll be well on your way to making perfect spuds in your air fryer!

Oil and seasoning

Oil is essential for achieving that coveted crispy skin. You can use a variety of oils, such as olive oil, avocado oil, coconut oil, or even cooking spray. The oil of your choice should be drizzled or sprayed over the potatoes, ensuring all sides are well-coated. This step can be done directly in the air fryer basket, but some prefer to coat the potatoes before placing them in the basket.

The oil also helps any seasonings adhere to the potatoes. The most commonly used seasoning is salt, which not only enhances flavour but also aids in achieving that perfect crispiness. Sea salt or kosher salt are popular choices, but any type of salt will work. For additional flavour, you can also use garlic powder and dried parsley. Sprinkle the seasonings generously over the oiled potatoes, and use your hands to ensure an even coating.

Air fryer settings

The optimal temperature for cooking spuds in an air fryer is between 390°F and 400°F. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the potato, but it typically ranges from 25 to 50 minutes. For example, small potatoes (4 to 6 ounces) will need to cook for 25 to 30 minutes, while large potatoes (about 12 ounces) will need about 1 hour.

It is important to note that different types of air fryers may have different settings and temperature ranges. For example, a basket-style air fryer is typically set at 400˚F, while a toaster-style air fryer should be set at 375˚F. Always refer to your air fryer's instructions for the best settings to use.

When cooking spuds in an air fryer, it is recommended to use the "`air fry` setting" if your air fryer has multiple settings. This setting will ensure that the potatoes cook evenly and become crispy.

Additionally, it is important to leave space between each potato in the air fryer basket to allow for even cooking and crispiness. Overcrowding the basket can lead to uneven cooking and prevent the potatoes from crisping up properly.

To achieve the perfect level of crispiness, it is recommended to flip the potatoes halfway through the cooking process. This ensures that both sides of the potatoes are exposed to direct heat and allows for more even cooking.

When cooking spuds in an air fryer, it is also important to consider the type of potato being used. Russet potatoes, also known as Idaho potatoes, are often recommended for air frying due to their high starch and low moisture content. However, other types of potatoes such as yellow potatoes, sweet potatoes, or sebago potatoes can also be used.

In summary, the key to successful air fryer spuds is to use the correct temperature and cooking time, leave space between the potatoes, flip them halfway through, and choose the appropriate type of potato for air frying. By following these guidelines, you can achieve crispy and fluffy spuds that are perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or even the main course.

Cooking time

The cooking time for spuds in an air fryer depends on the type of potato and the size of the potato. For example, small red potatoes will take less time to cook than large potatoes. The cooking time also depends on the model of the air fryer.

For small potatoes (4 to 6 ounces), cook for 25 to 30 minutes at 390°F. For medium to medium-large potatoes (8 to 10 ounces), cook for 40 to 50 minutes at 400°F. For large potatoes (about 12 ounces), cook for about 1 hour at 390°F.

If you are using a toaster-style air fryer, reduce the temperature to about 375˚F and keep the timing the same. If you are using a basket-style air fryer, you can cook the potatoes at 400˚F for about 30 minutes, then flip them and cook for an additional 5 to 15 minutes.

It is important to note that the size of the potato and the model of the air fryer may affect the cooking time. To ensure that your potatoes are cooked through, you can check them with a sharp knife or a fork. If the potatoes are not yet tender, you can always put them back in the air fryer for a few extra minutes.

Serving suggestions

Air fryer spuds are incredibly versatile and can be served as a side dish, appetiser, or main course. For a simple side, top your spuds with butter and a sprinkling of salt. For a more indulgent option, try loading your spuds with sour cream, shredded cheese, chives or green onions, and crispy air fryer bacon bits.

For a hearty main course, air fryer spuds can be filled with any number of tasty ingredients. Try a combination of jumbo lump crab meat, shrimp, and boneless chicken breast sautéed in butter with onions and green peppers, and topped with shredded Mexican cheese. Alternatively, fill your spuds with steak fajita strips, broccoli florets, and more of that delicious melted cheese.

For a vegetarian option, fill your spuds with butter, broccoli, Mexican cheese, and a generous dollop of sour cream. Or, for something a little different, try crab meat, shrimp, and sautéed vegetables topped with sharp cheddar.

If you're feeling extra hungry, why not add a fried egg on top for a truly satisfying meal?

Frequently asked questions