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Best Crispy and Fluffy Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes

Irina of DailyYum.com
This Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes recipe is a dream come true for any potato fan, such as myself. I love how they turn out with a crispy and golden exterior while soft and fluffy inside, all achieved with minimal oil and effort. They show off everything delicious about potatoes in every bite.
4.63 from 8 votes
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 17 minutes
Course Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 10 pieces
Calories 40 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound baby gold potatoes about 10-12, depending on the size. I used a mix of baby gold/red potatoes.
  • 1 Tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley optional, for garnish
  • 1 tablespoons Grated Parmesan cheese optional, for extra crispiness

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Potatoes: Scrub and rinse the potatoes. Pat them dry. Pierce a few holes with a fork. Microwave for 5 minutes until fork tender or a knife easily pierces to the center of each potato. I prefer the precook them in the microwave because it is faster. Alternatively, boil potatoes for 10-15 minutes until fork tender. Drain and let them cool slightly.
    baby potatoes along with olive oil and seasoning
  • Smash'em: Place potatoes on a flat work surface or cutting board and gently press each potato with the bottom of a mug (I used Mason jar) until they’re about ½-inch thick, keeping them in one piece but with a naturally uneven surface. See picture below.
    baby potatoes are crushed with a mug
  • Season: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl combine all the spices - salt, pepper, garlic powder. I also added smoked paprika and curry powder. Add a tablespoon of oil and mix well to combine into a paste
  • Air fry: Brush one side of each potato with oil/spice mix. I use this OXO food-basting brush for an even spreading. Place the potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket (work in batches if necessary). Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 6 minutes. Open your air fryer, using a spatula, carefully flip each potato on the other side. Brush the other side with the remaining oil/spice mix. Send back to air fryer for another 6 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
  • Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the crispy, flavorful potatoes!
    beautiful and golden smashed potatoes on the plate

Notes

Substitutions and variations you can try for air fryer smashed potatoes. Switch up the flavors and meet dietary preferences!
  1. Sweet Potatoes: Use small sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet, nutritious twist with the same crispy texture.
  2. Butter or Ghee Instead of Olive Oil: For a richer flavor, coat the potatoes in melted butter or ghee instead of olive oil.
  3. Herb and Spice Variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives, or spices like smoked paprika, chili powder, or Cajun seasoning for extra flavor.
  4. Vegan Parmesan or Nutritional Yeast: Replace Parmesan cheese with vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast to keep the recipe dairy-free while adding a cheesy flavor.
  5. Garlic-Infused Oil: Use garlic-infused olive oil to add a rich, garlicky flavor without needing extra garlic powder.
 

Nutrition

Serving: 1pieceCalories: 40kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 1gFat: 0.3gSaturated Fat: 0.1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.04gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 0.4mgSodium: 24mgPotassium: 198mgFiber: 1gSugar: 0.4gVitamin A: 8IUVitamin C: 9mgCalcium: 11mgIron: 0.4mg
Nutrition Disclaimer Nutritional information is an estimate and may change based on products used.
Keyword air fryer smashed potatoes
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