Red potatoes are a fantastic choice for air frying because they crisp up beautifully on the outside while staying tender on the inside.
With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have delicious, crispy red potatoes in no time.
Whether you’re making a side dish or a snack, the air fryer delivers the perfect balance of texture and flavor.
Preparation time:
- Total time: 25–30 minutes
- Prep time: 5–10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Servings:
This recipe serves 4 people.
Difficulty:
Easy – Air frying red potatoes is straightforward and quick!
Ingredients
The necessary ingredients (possible in all kinds of variations)
- 1 pound of red potatoes, washed and cut into quarters or halves (depending on size)
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary for garnish (optional)
Alternative Ingredients
- Vegan/Vegetarian: This recipe is naturally vegan, so no substitutions are needed!
- Gluten-free: All ingredients are gluten-free, but double-check seasonings or pre-packaged herbs to avoid hidden gluten.
- Flavor variation: Add Italian seasoning, cumin, or chili powder for a different flavor profile.
Steps of Preparation
The steps of preparation (possible in all kinds of variations)
Follow these steps to achieve perfectly crispy red potatoes in the air fryer:
- Wash and dry the red potatoes thoroughly, leaving the skin on for extra crispiness.
- Cut the potatoes into quarters or halves, depending on their size.
- Toss the potatoes in olive oil, ensuring each piece is lightly coated.
- Season the potatoes with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss again to evenly distribute the spices.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3–5 minutes.
- Place the seasoned potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them for air circulation.
- Air fry the potatoes for 10 minutes, then shake the basket or flip the potatoes to ensure even cooking.
- Continue air frying for another 8–10 minutes until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Check for doneness by piercing the potatoes with a fork. They should be tender inside and crispy outside.
- Remove the potatoes from the air fryer and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve hot!
Nutritional Benefits
Air-fried red potatoes provide numerous health benefits:
- Low in fat: Using minimal oil makes them a healthier alternative to traditional frying.
- Rich in fiber: Red potatoes, especially with the skin on, are a great source of dietary fiber.
- Packed with vitamins and minerals: They contain vitamin C, potassium, and B vitamins.
- Antioxidant-rich: The skin of red potatoes is high in antioxidants that promote good health.
- Low-calorie: Perfect for a light, satisfying side dish without the heaviness of deep frying.
Possible Additions or Upgrades to the Recipe
- Add cheese: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the potatoes during the last few minutes of cooking for a cheesy crust.
- Make them spicy: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Add vegetables: Air fry the red potatoes alongside bell peppers, onions, or Brussels sprouts for a mixed veggie dish.
- Make them loaded: Top the crispy potatoes with sour cream, bacon bits, and green onions for a loaded potato side dish.
Q&A
Can I use baby red potatoes?
Yes! Baby red potatoes work perfectly in this recipe. Just cut them in halves or quarters for even cooking.
Should I peel the potatoes?
No need to peel! Red potatoes have thin, nutritious skins that crisp up beautifully in the air fryer.
Can I cook them without oil?
Yes, you can air fry them without oil, but they may not be as crispy. A small amount of oil helps achieve that perfect golden crust.
How can I store leftover air-fried potatoes?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.
Can I add other seasonings?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the seasonings to your liking. Add onion powder, cumin, or fresh herbs for extra flavor.
How do I prevent overcrowding in the air fryer?
Cook the potatoes in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the basket will result in uneven cooking and less crispiness.
What should the internal temperature be?
For perfectly cooked potatoes, the internal temperature should reach 205°F (96°C). However, texture is the best indicator — they should be fork-tender.
Can I make sweet potatoes the same way?
Yes, sweet potatoes can also be air fried using the same method. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as they may cook a little faster.
Can I use frozen potatoes in the air fryer?
Yes, but frozen potatoes will take slightly longer to cook. Add an extra 5 minutes and shake the basket halfway through.
How can I get my potatoes even crispier?
For extra crispy potatoes, soak the cut pieces in cold water for 30 minutes, then pat them dry before air frying. This removes excess starch for crispier results.
Share this delicious, easy air-fried red potato recipe with friends and family! They’ll love how quick and flavorful it is.
