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 impressive weekend gatherings. Forget soggy boiled potatoes – this recipe delivers perfectly golden-brown, fluffy interiors with unbelievably crunchy exteriors, all in a fraction of the time. It's a healthy, homemade alternative to takeout and a fantastic addition to any meal. Get ready to elevate your potato game!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb baby potatoes, 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 herbs (rosemary, thyme), 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for spice
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly and halve or quarter them if they are larger than a bite-sized piece. This ensures even cooking. Pat them completely dry with a paper towel; this is crucial for achieving that extra crispy exterior.
Step 2: Season the Potatoes
In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. If using, add fresh herbs or cayenne pepper at this stage. Make sure the potatoes are evenly coated with the seasoning.
Step 3: Air Fry the Potatoes
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren't overcrowded. Overcrowding will result in 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.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the potatoes from the air fryer and serve immediately. These crispy air fryer baby potatoes are delicious as a side dish with any protein, or even enjoyed on their own as a snack.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Potatoes:
- Don't overcrowd the basket: Work in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and maximum crispiness.
- Pat them dry: Thoroughly drying the potatoes is key to achieving a crispy exterior.
- Shake the basket: Shaking the basket halfway through cooking helps ensure even browning and prevents sticking.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer and the size of your potatoes. Start checking for doneness at the 20-minute mark.
Variations:
- Roasted Garlic: Add a tablespoon of roasted garlic paste for extra flavor.
- Spicy Potatoes: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like oregano, parsley, or chives.
- Cheese Potatoes: Sprinkle with parmesan cheese during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of the potatoes and the amount of oil used. However, a general estimate per serving (assuming 1/4 of the recipe) would be:
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 8-12g
- Protein: 2-3g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
These delicious and easy air fryer baby potatoes are a fantastic addition to your healthy meal repertoire. They’re quick, simple, and customizable to your liking – perfect for weeknight dinners or as a tasty side for a weekend barbecue. Enjoy!