Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
This recipe delivers perfectly crispy and flavorful smashed baby gold potatoes. Boiled until tender, then gently smashed and coated with a savory blend of melted butter, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. They are then air-fried to a beautiful golden crisp, offering a quick and delectable side dish with minimal effort.
Equipment
- 1 Air Fryer
- 1 Large Pot For boiling potatoes
- 1 Potato Masher Alternatively, use a sturdy fork
- 1 Medium Mixing Bowl
- 1 Small Microwave Safe Bowl For melting butter
Ingredients
Main
- 8 ounces baby gold potatoes
- 1 Tablespoon unsalted butter melted
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash the baby gold potatoes. In a large pot, add the potatoes and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until fork-tender.
- Drain the cooked potatoes well and let them sit in the colander for a few minutes to allow excess steam to escape and dry slightly.
- While potatoes are cooling, melt the unsalted butter in a small microwave-safe bowl or saucepan.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, salt, garlic powder, and ground black pepper. Whisk to ensure all spices are evenly incorporated.
- Transfer the warm, drained potatoes to the mixing bowl with the seasoned butter. Using a potato masher or the back of a sturdy fork, gently smash each potato until flattened but still holding together.
- Toss the smashed potatoes in the bowl, ensuring they are evenly coated with the butter and spice mixture.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Arrange the smashed potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd; cook in batches if necessary.
- Air fry for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the potatoes are deeply golden brown and crispy.
- Carefully remove the crispy smashed potatoes from the air fryer and serve immediately, garnished as desired.
Notes
For enhanced flavor, consider adding fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs to the air fryer during the last few minutes of cooking. A pinch of smoked paprika can also deepen the flavor profile and add a beautiful color. Ensure potatoes are fork-tender but not waterlogged after boiling to prevent a mushy interior. Do not overcrowd your air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary, to guarantee maximum crispness. Preheating the air fryer is crucial for achieving an even, golden exterior. Serving with a sprinkle of fresh chives or grated Parmesan cheese elevates the presentation and taste.