Go Back
+ servings
white dinner plate with smashed potatoes, scrambled eggs and ketchup with platter of potatoes and air fryer in background
Print Add to Collection

Crispy Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes

Crispy Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes turn out golden brown, flavorful, and delicious! Try this easy recipe for a twist on basic potato sides. Pair them with any meal for a simple, yet delicious bite finished with savory seasonings and Parmesan cheese.
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 232kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

  • pounds baby potatoes Yukon Gold or red potatoes
  • tablespoons olive oil
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley or chives for serving (optional)

Instructions

  • Place potatoes in a pot, cover with cold water, and add a generous pinch of salt.
  • Bring water to a boil, then cook until potatoes are fork-tender (about 15 minutes). Drain well and let potatoes sit uncovered for 5 minutes to allow excess moisture to evaporate.
  • Preheat air fryer to 400℉.
  • Arrange potatoes in a single layer in air fryer basket. Use bottom of a glass or measuring cup to gently smash each potato until flattened but still intact.
  • Drizzle potatoes evenly with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
  • Air fry at 400℉ for 10 minutes. Flip potatoes, then air fry for another 6-8 minutes, until crisp and golden around the edges.
  • Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over potatoes and return basket to air fryer for 1-2 more minutes, just until cheese melts and turns lightly golden.
  • Remove potatoes from air fryer and garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Store leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat in the air fryer at 375℉ for 5-8 minutes, or in the oven at 400℉ for 10-15 minutes, until heated through and crispy again.
  • Potatoes must be boiled first to achieve a fluffy interior texture.
  • Avoid overboiling, so that the potatoes do not become too soft and fall apart.
  • Be sure to allow the potatoes to steam-dry after draining to reduce moisture and help them crisp up.
  • Smash to about ½-inch thick for the best balance of crispy edges and tender centers.
  • Leave space between the potatoes in the air fryer to allow for proper airflow and even crisping.
  • If using larger potatoes, cut them in half before boiling for even cooking.

Nutrition

Calories: 232kcal | Carbohydrates: 32g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 11mg | Sodium: 665mg | Potassium: 747mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 113IU | Vitamin C: 34mg | Calcium: 133mg | Iron: 1mg