Name: Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 pound baby yellow potatoes; 1 tablespoon Olive oil spray; to taste Kosher salt; to taste Black pepper; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Are you ready to elevate your potato game with a dish that delivers crispy perfection on the outside and fluffy goodness on the inside? Welcome to the world of Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes! This recipe combines the delightful crunch of smashed potatoes with the convenience of the air fryer, making it an ideal side dish for any meal. Simple yet flavorful, these potatoes are packed with garlic, butter, and parmesan, making them irresistible and a must-try for your next dinner party or family meal. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a winner and how you can easily make it at home.

Why Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes is Worth Your Time

Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes are truly a standout dish for several reasons. First, the air fryer allows you to achieve that coveted crispy exterior without the need for a deep fryer. This means less oil and fewer calories while still delivering that satisfying crunch. Second, this recipe is incredibly quick and straightforward, requiring minimal prep time. With just a pound of baby yellow potatoes and a handful of pantry staples, you’ll have a delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with almost any protein. Plus, the garlic and parmesan elevate the flavors, making your taste buds dance with joy. These potatoes are versatile enough for weeknight dinners and fancy gatherings alike!

What You’ll Need

1 pound baby yellow potatoes – These creamy, buttery potatoes are the perfect base for smashing.
Olive oil spray – A light coating of olive oil helps achieve that golden crispiness.
Kosher salt – To taste, enhancing the natural flavor of the potatoes.
Black pepper – A dash of freshly cracked black pepper adds a nice kick.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – This adds richness and depth of flavor.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic gives a wonderful aromatic quality to the dish.
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese – For that cheesy, savory finish that takes these potatoes over the top.

Essential Tools for Success

Air Fryer – The star of the show, ensuring perfectly crispy potatoes.
Large Pot – For boiling the potatoes until tender.
Colander – To drain the potatoes after boiling.
Baking Sheet or Cutting Board – For smashing the boiled potatoes.
Spatula – For flipping the potatoes in the air fryer.

Step-by-Step: Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Begin by washing the baby yellow potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring the water to a boil over high heat and cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender, which usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 2: Drain and Cool

Once cooked, drain the potatoes in a colander and let them cool for a few minutes. This will make them easier to handle when smashing.

Step 3: Smash the Potatoes

Transfer the potatoes to a baking sheet or cutting board. Using the bottom of a sturdy glass or a potato masher, gently press down on each potato until they are flattened but not completely broken apart. Aim for a thickness of about half an inch.

Step 4: Season and Prepare for Air Frying

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper. Drizzle this mixture over the smashed potatoes, ensuring each one is well-coated. Then, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese generously over the tops.

Step 5: Air Fry the Potatoes

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly coat the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Place the smashed potatoes in a single layer in the basket, ensuring there’s enough space for air circulation. Cook for about 12-15 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the potatoes are done, carefully remove them from the air fryer. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your crispy, cheesy, and flavorful Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes!

Warm & Cool Weather Spins

Warm Weather: Serve your Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes alongside grilled meats or as part of a summer barbecue spread.
Cool Weather: Pair them with hearty stews or roasted chicken for a comforting, cozy meal.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding herbs like rosemary or thyme for added depth of flavor.

Mistakes That Ruin Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes

Even the best recipes can go awry if a few common mistakes are made. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

Overcooking the potatoes while boiling can lead to mushy smashed potatoes that don’t hold their shape.
Not allowing enough space in the air fryer can result in uneven cooking. Always arrange the potatoes in a single layer.
Skipping the olive oil spray can lead to potatoes that stick to the air fryer basket and lack that coveted crispiness.
Using pre-grated cheese can result in less flavor and a different texture. Freshly grated Parmesan is ideal.

Storing Tips & Timelines

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare because they are so delicious), here’s how to store them:

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: For best results, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain crispiness.
Freezing: While not recommended due to texture changes, you can freeze them for up to a month. Just reheat in the air fryer to crisp up again.

Bring It to the Table

Now that you have mastered the art of Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes, it’s time to share this delightful dish with friends and family. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, these potatoes are sure to impress. Their crispy texture, combined with the rich flavors of garlic and cheese, will have everyone asking for the recipe. So gather your ingredients, fire up your air fryer, and get ready to enjoy a delicious side that’s easy to make and even easier to love. Happy cooking!