Are you looking for a quick and easy side dish that’s bursting with flavor? Look no further! These crispy air fryer baby potatoes are the perfect solution for busy weeknights or a delightful addition to your weekend brunch. Forget soggy boiled potatoes – this recipe delivers perfectly roasted, crispy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside potatoes every time, with minimal cleanup! It's a healthy alternative to deep-fried potatoes, making it a guilt-free addition to your healthy meal plan. This recipe is perfect for beginner cooks and experienced chefs alike – a truly delicious and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb baby potatoes, scrubbed and halved (or quartered if large)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs
Instructions:
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Prep the Potatoes: Thoroughly wash and scrub your baby potatoes. Halve or quarter them, depending on their size. You want relatively even-sized pieces for consistent cooking.
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Season to Perfection: In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Ensure all potatoes are evenly coated with the seasoning. If using fresh herbs, add them now.
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Air Fry to Crisp: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding. Overcrowding will lead to steaming instead of crisping. Cook for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the potatoes are golden brown and tender. Cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer and the size of the potatoes.
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Serve & Enjoy: Remove the potatoes from the air fryer and serve immediately. They're delicious as a simple side dish alongside any protein, or as part of a larger meal.
Tips for Extra Crispy Potatoes:
- Don't overcrowd the basket: Overcrowding will result in steamed potatoes instead of crispy ones. Work in batches if necessary.
- Shake the basket halfway through: This ensures even cooking and browning on all sides.
- Pat the potatoes dry: Before seasoning, pat the potatoes dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps them crisp up better.
- Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to get creative with your seasonings! Try different herbs, spices, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese after cooking.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Potatoes: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning for a spicy kick.
- Garlic Parmesan Potatoes: Toss the cooked potatoes with grated Parmesan cheese and minced garlic after air frying.
- Herb Roasted Potatoes: Use a combination of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley for an aromatic twist.
- Lemon & Herb Potatoes: Add the zest and juice of half a lemon to the seasoning mix for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a 1 lb batch of potatoes, divided into 4 servings, and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Protein: 3-4g
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful air fryer baby potatoes! They’re a fantastic addition to any meal and a perfect example of how easy and delicious homemade cooking can be. This recipe is a great example of quick dinner ideas and easy recipes, perfect for busy weeknights or a fun weekend meal. These air fryer baby potatoes are certainly among the best recipes, simple and healthy.