Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes are a delightful comfort food that combines the creaminess of perfectly cooked potatoes with a satisfying crunch from the air fryer. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying, making it a perfect side dish for family dinners or gatherings. With their aromatic garlic seasoning and crispy texture, these smashed potatoes are sure to bring joy to your table. Plus, following this step-by-step guide will help you create crispy, delicious potatoes that everyone will love!

Ingredients

To make the Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes, you will need the following ingredients:

1.5 lb. small baby potatoes – These tender, creamy potatoes are the star of the dish, providing a comforting base for all the flavors.
2 tablespoons butter or olive oil – This will give your potatoes a rich, buttery flavor. For a vegan option, consider plant-based butter.
1 tablespoon garlic powder or freshly minced garlic – The aromatic essence of garlic enhances the potatoes’ flavor, making them irresistibly fragrant.
1/8 teaspoon smoked paprika – This ingredient adds a subtle smokiness, elevating the dish to new heights.
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper – Freshly ground black pepper adds warmth and enhances the overall taste.
Salt to taste – Don’t forget to season your potatoes properly to bring out their natural flavors!

You will also need an Instant Pot to cook the potatoes quickly, an Air Fryer for that crispy finish, and some oven mitts for safety while handling hot items.

Step-by-Step Directions

Prepare the Potatoes: Begin by boiling the baby potatoes in the Instant Pot or microwave until they are fork-tender. If you’re using the Instant Pot, add 1 cup of water to the steel insert, place a trivet or steamer basket inside, and arrange the potatoes on top. Close the lid, ensuring the vent is in the sealing position, and set to Steam mode at high pressure for 6 minutes.
Smash the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are cooked, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then vent any remaining pressure. Carefully remove the potatoes and, using a potato masher, the back of a measuring cup, or a thick glass, gently smash each potato until flattened but still holding together.
Season Them Up: In a small bowl, mix your butter or olive oil with the garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Brush this aromatic mixture generously over the smashed potatoes, ensuring each one is well-coated.
Air Fry for Crispiness: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the smashed potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 12 minutes; at the 8-minute mark, carefully flip the potatoes, brush them again with the seasoning mix, and continue cooking for another 4 minutes until crispy and golden.
Final Touch: Once done, take them out and give the potatoes one last brush with the butter or oil spice mix to enhance their flavor. Serve hot, either as a delightful snack or a perfect side dish.

Alternatively, if you prefer baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the prepared potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 18-20 minutes, checking halfway through for even cooking.

Tips & Tricks

For Extra Crispiness: If you want your potatoes to be even crisper, consider letting them cool slightly after smashing. This will help create a delightful crunch when air-frying or baking.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with different seasonings! Try adding herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fresh twist.
Use Leftover Potatoes: If you have leftover cooked potatoes, you can simply smash and season them before frying for a quick and easy dish.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes make a fantastic accompaniment to grilled meats, such as chicken or steak, as well as roasted vegetables. They are ideal for family gatherings, casual dinners, or as a tasty movie night snack. Consider pairing them with a creamy dip or a spicy salsa for an extra kick.

Nutritional Information

A serving of Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes contains approximately 180-220 calories, largely depending on the amount of oil used. They are a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for your day. Incorporating them into a balanced meal with protein and veggies can enhance their nutritional profile.

Storing Tips & Variations

You can store any leftover smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes for that just-cooked crispiness. If you’d like to make them a different way, try adding cheese or a sprinkle of herbs for added flavor, or use sweet potatoes for a nutritious twist.

Conclusion

You’ve now discovered how to create scrumptious Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes that are bound to impress your family and friends. With their crispy exterior and creamy interior, they’re a comforting dish that everyone will love. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try and share your experience!

FAQs

What type of potatoes are best for smashing?
- Small baby potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes work best due to their creamy texture.
Can I use an oven instead of an air fryer?
- Yes! Bake the smashed potatoes in the oven at 400°F for 18-20 minutes for a similar effect.
Can these potatoes be made ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can boil the potatoes in advance and then smash and season them when you’re ready to cook.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
- Yes, simply use plant-based butter or olive oil for a vegan version.
What dipping sauces go well with smashed potatoes?
- Sour cream, chive dip, or a spicy aioli complement the flavors beautifully.

Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes

Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these air fryer smashed potatoes are the perfect comforting side dish for any meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 12

Total Time 27

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 200

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1.5 lb. small baby potatoes Tender, creamy potatoes that serve as the base.
2 tablespoons butter or olive oil For a vegan option, consider using plant-based butter.
1 tablespoon garlic powder or freshly minced garlic Enhances the flavor with aromatic essence.
1/8 teaspoon smoked paprika Adds subtle smokiness.
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper Freshly ground for added warmth.
to taste salt Salt To bring out the natural flavors of the potatoes.

Method

Preparation

Begin by boiling the baby potatoes in the Instant Pot or microwave until they are fork-tender. If using the Instant Pot, add 1 cup of water to the insert, place a trivet or steamer basket inside, and arrange the potatoes on top. Close the lid and set to Steam mode at high pressure for 6 minutes.

Smashing

Once the potatoes are cooked, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then vent any remaining pressure. Carefully remove the potatoes and gently smash each potato until flattened but still holding together.

Seasoning

In a small bowl, mix your butter or olive oil with the garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Brush this mixture generously over the smashed potatoes.

Cooking

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the smashed potatoes in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 12 minutes; at the 8-minute mark, flip the potatoes, brush again with the seasoning mix, and continue cooking for another 4 minutes until crispy and golden.
Alternatively, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the potatoes on a baking sheet for 18-20 minutes.

Final Touch

Once done, take them out and give the potatoes a final brush with the butter or oil spice mix to enhance their flavor. Serve hot.

Notes

For extra crispiness, let the smashed potatoes cool slightly before air frying or baking. Experiment with different seasonings and consider using leftover cooked potatoes.