Impossibly Crispy Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes: The Ultimate Crunchy-Creamy Side Dish

Transform humble potatoes into a show-stopping side dish with this foolproof air fryer recipe. These smashed potatoes offer the perfect contrast between ultra-crispy exteriors and fluffy, tender centers.

>>>Get the Recipe in Details: Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes

Better yet, they require minimal oil and are ready in half the time of traditional oven methods.

Air Fryer Smashed PotatoesPhoto byFood Fusion Frenzy

Why This Recipe Works

The air fryer's intense circulating heat creates extraordinarily crispy edges while maintaining a perfectly creamy interior. The two-step cooking process (boiling then air frying) ensures optimal texture, while the smashing technique creates more surface area for maximum crispiness.

Ingredients

For 4 servings:

• 1.5 pounds baby potatoes (preferably similar in size)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Optional garnishes: fresh parsley, grated parmesan, chives

Equipment Needed

• Air fryer
• Large pot
• Potato masher or flat-bottomed glass
• Pastry brush (optional)
• Slotted spoon

Instructions

1. Initial Boiling
2. • Wash potatoes thoroughly
   • Place in a large pot and cover with cold water
   • Add 1 tablespoon salt to water
   • Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender
   • Drain and let steam dry for 5 minutes
3. Smashing Prep
4. • Transfer potatoes to a cutting board
   • Using a potato masher or glass, gently smash each potato to about 1/2 inch thickness.
   • Let rest for 5 minutes to release steam
5. Season
6. • Mix olive oil with minced garlic and herbs
   • Brush or drizzle mixture over potatoes
   • Season with salt, pepper, and onion powder
7. Air Fry
8. • Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C)
   • Place potatoes in the air fryer basket, avoid overlapping
   • Cook 12-15 minutes until golden brown and crispy
   • Flip halfway through cooking
9. Finish
10. • Transfer to a serving plate
    • Add optional garnishes
    • Serve immediately while hot and crispy

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

1. Potato Selection
2. • Choose potatoes of similar size for even cooking
   • Baby Yukon Golds or red potatoes work best
   • Aim for potatoes about 1.5-2 inches in diameter
3. Moisture Control
4. • Allow proper steam drying after boiling
   • Don't skip the resting period after smashing
   • Pat dry with paper towels if needed
5. Air Fryer Tips
6. • Don't overcrowd the basket
   • Cook in batches if necessary
   • Shake the basket occasionally for even crisping

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: You can boil and mash the potatoes up to 4 hours ahead. Store covered in the refrigerator, then air fry just before serving.

Q: Why are my potatoes not getting crispy?
A: Common causes include overcrowding the air fryer, not drying potatoes properly, or using too much oil. Ensure potatoes are well-dried and spaced apart.

Q: Can I use regular-sized potatoes?
A: Yes, but cut them into roughly 2-inch pieces before boiling. Cooking times may need adjustment.

Q: How do I know when the potatoes are perfectly boiled?
A: A fork should easily pierce the potato but it shouldn't fall apart. They should be tender but still hold their shape.

Q: Can I use different seasonings?
A: Absolutely! Try cajun seasoning, ranch powder, or your favorite herb combinations. Just add them before air frying.

Q: What if I don't have an air fryer?
A: You can make these in a conventional oven at 425°F for 25-30 minutes, but they may not achieve quite the same level of crispiness.

Variations

1. Loaded Style
2. • Top with cheddar cheese
   • Add crumbled bacon
   • Finish with sour cream and chives
3. Mediterranean
4. • Use fresh oregano and thyme
   • Top with crumbled feta
   • Finish with lemon zest
5. Spicy Version
6. • Add cayenne pepper to seasonings
   • Sprinkle with red pepper flakes
   • Serve with spicy aioli

Storage and Reheating

• Best served immediately
• Can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Reheat in air fryer at 375°F for 3-4 minutes
• Avoid microwave reheating (makes them soggy)

Troubleshooting Tips

1. Too Soggy?
2. • Ensure proper drying after boiling.
   • Increase cooking time by 2-3 minutes
   • Reduce oil quantity slightly
3. Breaking Apart?
4. • Don't smash too thin.
   • Handle gently when flipping
   • Ensure potatoes aren't overboiled
5. Uneven Cooking?
6. • Select similarly sized potatoes.
   • Rotate positions in the air fryer
   • Don't overlap potatoes

Serving Suggestions

• Perfect alongside grilled meats
• Great for breakfast with eggs
• Excellent party appetizer
• Ideal game day snack

Health Benefits

• Lower in fat than deep-fried versions
• Good source of vitamin C and potassium
• Contains fiber and B vitamins
• More nutritious with skins left on

Remember, the key to perfect air fryer smashed potatoes lies in proper moisture control and not overcrowding your air fryer basket. These crispy-on-the-outside, creamy-on-the-inside potatoes are sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and toppings to make them your own!