Crispy Smashed Potatoes in the Air Fryer Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a side dish that’s simply irresistible and easy to whip up, I’ve got you covered with this Crispy Smashed Potatoes in the Air Fryer Recipe. These golden gems come out perfectly crispy on the outside and tender inside, all without slaving away over the stove. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become your go-to comfort food that impresses every time!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

I always keep simple ingredients on hand that effortlessly come together for this recipe. Yukon gold potatoes are my favorite because their creamy texture crisps up beautifully in the air fryer.

• Yukon gold potatoes: Their buttery flavor and smooth texture make them perfect for smashing and crisping.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps carry the garlic and parsley flavors.
• Garlic: Fresh is best for intense, aromatic flavor that really elevates the potatoes.
• Fresh parsley: Brightens up the dish with a pop of color and herbaceous notes.
• Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural potato flavors.
• Fresh ground black pepper: Adds just the right amount of kick and warmth.

Variations

I love making this Crispy Smashed Potatoes in the Air Fryer Recipe my own depending on the occasion or what I have in the pantry. It’s so adaptable, you can easily tweak flavors or make it diet-friendly.

• Cheesy Smashed Potatoes: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Parmesan on top before the last minute in the air fryer — my family goes crazy for the melty, golden cheese crust.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper into the garlic butter mixture for a warm, smoky heat.
• Herb Mix: Swap parsley for rosemary or thyme to give it a different herbal profile — it’s a great way to mix things up seasonally.
• Vegan Option: Use olive oil instead of butter; just keep in mind the flavor will be a little different but still delicious.

How to Make Crispy Smashed Potatoes in the Air Fryer Recipe

Step 1: Boil Until Tender but Not Mushy

Start by scrubbing your Yukon gold potatoes clean — I never skip this because the skin adds texture and nutrients. Pop them into a pot filled with water covering the potatoes by about an inch, then simmer for 20-22 minutes. You’re looking for that fork-tender stage where the potato gives easily but isn’t falling apart. This is the trick I discovered after a few times: perfectly cooked potatoes hold their shape when smashed.

Step 2: Smash with Care

Drain and let your potatoes cool for a few minutes — hot potatoes are much harder to handle. Use a potato masher or the back of a fork to gently press each potato down to about ½-inch to 1-inch thick. The goal here is to flatten, not pulverize. This slight thickness helps keep the inside fluffy while the edges crisp up beautifully.

Step 3: Garlic Butter Love

While the potatoes cool, whisk together melted butter, minced garlic, and finely chopped fresh parsley. This mixture coats each potato, infusing it with flavor and helping develop that tasty golden crust in the air fryer.

Step 4: Air Fry to Crispy Perfection

Place your smashed potatoes in a single layer inside the air fryer basket with about an inch gap between each for proper circulation. Cook at 400˚F for 8-11 minutes — keep an eye on them from 8 minutes onward to snag your preferred level of crispness. The first time I made this, I thought 8 minutes would be enough, but I learned that a couple more minutes really boosts the crunch without drying them out.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, transfer your crispy smashed potatoes to a platter and sprinkle with extra fresh parsley for a bright finish. If you love garlic as much as I do, serve with a little extra garlic butter on the side for dipping — it’s a game changer!

How to Serve Crispy Smashed Potatoes in the Air Fryer Recipe

Garnishes

I almost always garnish with freshly chopped parsley because it adds a lovely fresh color and herb flavor. For a bit of indulgence, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a drizzle of sour cream pairs wonderfully. And if you love a bit of heat, a light dusting of chili flakes works wonders too!

Side Dishes

These potatoes are endlessly versatile. I like serving them alongside grilled chicken or fish for a quick weeknight meal. They also make a fantastic companion to roasted veggies or a fresh green salad. For parties, I pop them next to dipping sauces like ranch or spicy aioli, and they get gobbled up every time.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve arranged the potatoes on a wooden board sprinkled with herbs and served them family-style. Another idea is stacking them and topping with a dollop of sour cream and chopped scallions for a loaded baked potato vibe. Little touches like these make the dish feel a bit festive but still easy to eat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After a big batch, I store leftover crispy smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. They hold up well and reheat nicely if you want a quick snack or side the next day.

Freezing

If I want to freeze them, I first arrange smashed potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid—this step prevents them from sticking together. Then, I transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and keep them for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat in the air fryer for best results.

Reheating

To bring back that signature crispness when reheating, I always pop leftovers back into the air fryer at 375˚F for about 5-7 minutes. Avoid the microwave if possible—it tends to make them soggy, and that’s the last thing you want with these glorious potatoes!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Crispy Smashed Potatoes in the Air Fryer Recipe turns out every single time — it’s a little bit addictive! When I first tried it, I never imagined how easy it could be to get that crispy, garlicky, buttery goodness without a deep fryer. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just craving a cozy side dish, you’ll find this recipe hits all the right notes every time. Give it a go, and I’m sure it’ll become a favorite in your kitchen too!

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