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These crispy air fryer baby potatoes come together in just a few simple steps and make the perfect side for any meal. With golden edges and fluffy centers, they’re flavorful, easy to prep, and ready in about 15 minutes.
Why you’ll love these Easy Air Fryer Potatoes
The first time I made these, I was just trying to use up a bag of baby potatoes that had been sitting in the crisper drawer a little too long—and get dinner on the table fast. Now they’ve turned into one of those sides that magically disappear before the main dish is even touched. My son will sneak a few straight from the basket if I’m not watching!
They’ve become one of our go-to recipes because they’re that easy and that good. Plus, they’re a true crowd-pleaser—great with anything from grilled meats to breakfast eggs. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or Sunday lunch, these always hit the spot.
What makes these a keeper!
❥ Perfect texture: Crispy golden edges with a creamy, fluffy center.
❥ Big flavor, simple seasoning: Paprika, garlic, salt, and pepper bring all the comfort without the fuss.
❥ Quick and easy: Just 15 minutes in the air fryer.
❥ Minimal cleanup: No sheet pans or oven preheating needed
NikkiIngredient Notes
- Red baby potatoes: Perfect for the air fryer because they get crispy on the outside while staying fluffy inside, and there’s no peeling required.
- Olive oil: Helps the potatoes brown evenly and adds just enough richness without making them greasy.
- Kosher salt: Seasons the potatoes evenly and is easier to control than fine salt.
- Black pepper: Adds a hint of warmth and balances the flavors.
- Garlic powder: Gives great garlic flavor without burning in the air fryer.
- Smoked or sweet paprika: Adds color and flavor, with smoked paprika giving a deeper taste and sweet paprika keeping things mild.
How To Make The Best Air Fryer Potatoes
✱ Be sure to see the recipe card below for exact ingredients and full recipe instructions!
Step 1 | Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F and let it preheat for about 3 minutes. Starting with a hot air fryer helps the potatoes crisp up right away.
Step 2 | Season the Potatoes
In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes with olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Make sure every piece is well coated—this is what gives them that golden color and punch of flavor.
Step 3 | Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket
Place the cut potatoes, cut-side down, in a single layer in the air fryer basket. This helps them develop a crisp, caramelized edge. Don’t overcrowd—cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Step 4 | Cook Until Crispy and Tender
Air fry for 13–15 minutes, shaking the basket about halfway through. The potatoes should be deeply golden, crispy on the outside, and tender enough to pierce with a fork.
Step 5 | Serve and Garnish
Serve hot straight from the basket or transfer to a dish. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or chives if you like a pop of color and freshness..
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Variations and Substitutions
- Switch up the potatoes: Baby golds or fingerlings work just as well and bring a slightly different flavor and texture.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle with Parmesan or a cheddar blend right after cooking for a cheesy twist.
- Make them spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for a little heat.
- Go herby: Toss with chopped fresh rosemary or thyme before cooking, or finish with parsley or chives.
- Change up the seasoning: Try ranch seasoning, Cajun spice, Italian blend, lemon pepper, or even everything bagel seasoning for a fun flavor twist.
- Add a squeeze: A little fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of vinegar after cooking brightens everything up.
Recipe FAQs
No! These baby potatoes crisp up perfectly without soaking. Just give them a good rinse and dry them well before tossing with oil and seasoning.
You can—just cut them into 1-inch chunks so they cook evenly. Cooking time may need a minute or two longer.
What to Serve with Potatoes Made in the Air Fryer
These little potatoes are super versatile and pair well with just about anything you’re cooking up. Here are some easy favorites:
Baked or grilled chicken – Try them with BBQ chicken, lemon chicken, or even store-bought rotisserie for a quick dinner.
Steak bites or beef tips – Perfect for steak night or alongside slow cooker pot roast.
Pork chops or tenderloin – Whether serving grilled pork chops, fried pork chops, or an oven-baked pork roast, they make a great match.
Fish – Go simple with salmon or crispy air fryer fish filets.
Eggs – Add a fried or poached egg, and you’ve got a savory breakfast or brunch.
Burgers or hot dogs – Serve as a hearty side instead of fries.
Roasted veggies or a salad – Keep it light and fresh for a balanced plate.
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Air Fryer Baby Potatoes
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Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds red baby potatoes - halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes.
- In a large bowl, toss halved baby potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until evenly coated.
- Arrange potatoes cut-side down in the air fryer basket in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
- Air fry for 13–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until crispy and fork-tender.
- Serve hot, garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
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