If you're seeking the ultimate side dish that perfectly balances crispy exteriors with fluffy interiors, our Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes recipe is a game-changer. Discover how simple it is to create these golden, crunchy delights that are sure to become a favorite at your table.

air fryer smashed potatoes in a baking dish with parchment paper

Why You'll Love This Crispy Side Dish

Quick and Easy. Ready in under 30 minutes, these potatoes are a breeze to make, thanks to the efficiency of your air fryer.
Versatile. Whether accompanying a weeknight dinner or serving as a party snack, these potatoes adapt effortlessly to any occasion.
Irresistible Texture. With a satisfying crunch on the outside and a soft, pillowy center, they offer a delightful textural experience.

Elevate your culinary repertoire with these Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes. Their simplicity belies their incredible flavor and texture, making them a must-have addition to your recipe collection.

Are Smashed Potatoes Good?

Yes, smashed potatoes are incredibly delicious! They offer a perfect balance of crispy exteriors and fluffy interiors, creating a delightful texture with every bite.

Smashed potatoes are versatile and can be seasoned and customized to suit various flavor preferences, making them a popular and enjoyable side dish for any occasion.

Ingredients You'll Need

Baby Potatoes- Opt for small, uniform baby potatoes for the best results. Their petite size ensures they cook evenly and smash effortlessly.
Olive Oil- Used to coat the potatoes before air frying, olive oil helps achieve that coveted crispy exterior.
Salt- Enhances the natural flavor of the potatoes and adds a savory dimension to each bite.
Black Pepper- Provides a subtle warmth and depth of flavor that complements the potatoes beautifully.
Optional Toppings- Get creative with your toppings! Consider sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh herbs, or crispy bacon bits over them before serving.

How To Make Smashed Potatoes

Boil the Potatoes. Start by boiling the baby potatoes until they are fork-tender. This step ensures that they cook evenly and smash easily.
Smash the Potatoes. Once boiled, carefully transfer the potatoes to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Gently press down on each potato with the back of a fork or a potato masher until they are flattened but still intact.
Season and Oil. Drizzle the smashed potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle them with salt and black pepper. This seasoning not only enhances the flavor but also helps achieve that crispy exterior when air frying.
Air Fry to Perfection. Preheat your air fryer, then arrange the seasoned potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at a high temperature until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy on the outside, with a tender interior.
Serve and Enjoy. Once cooked to perfection, transfer the smashed potatoes to a serving platter and garnish with your favorite toppings. These potatoes are best enjoyed hot and fresh from the air fryer.

Tips And Tricks

Here are some tips and tricks to help you make perfect air fryer smashed potatoes:

Choose the right potatoes. While you can use any type of potato for smashed potatoes, baby potatoes work best due to their small size and tender texture.
Parboil the potatoes. Boil the potatoes until they are just fork-tender before smashing them. This step ensures that the potatoes are cooked all the way through and allows for easier smashing.
Use parchment paper or a silicone mat. Placing parchment paper or a silicone mat on the bottom of the air fryer basket can prevent the potatoes from sticking and make cleanup easier.

Variations

There are endless variations you can try to customize your air fryer smashed potatoes. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Garlic Parmesan- After smashing the potatoes, brush them with melted butter infused with minced garlic and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before air frying. Garnish with fresh parsley for added freshness.
Loaded- Top the smashed potatoes with shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and sliced green onions before air frying. Serve with a dollop of sour cream on the side for extra indulgence.
Mediterranean- Brush the smashed potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with dried oregano, thyme, and crumbled feta cheese before air frying. Serve with a side of tzatziki sauce for a refreshing twist.

What To Eat With Smashed Potatoes

Smashed potatoes are a versatile and delicious side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Here are some tasty options to enjoy alongside them:

Grilled or Roasted Meats- Serve smashed potatoes alongside grilled or roasted meats such as steak, chicken, pork chops, or lamb for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Fish and Seafood- Pair smashed potatoes with grilled or baked fish, shrimp, salmon, or scallops for a flavorful and well-balanced dish.
Vegetarian Entrees- Smashed potatoes complement vegetarian dishes like roasted vegetables, veggie burgers, tofu stir-fry, or stuffed bell peppers, adding a comforting element to the meal.

How Long Do They Last?

Smashed potatoes can typically be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. To store them properly, place the cooled potatoes in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag.

Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly upon reheating, but they should still be safe to eat within the recommended time frame.

Can You Freeze Them?

Yes, you can freeze smashed potatoes for longer-term storage. Here's how to do it:

Place the cooled potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they are not touching each other.
Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer and let the potatoes freeze until they are solid, typically for about 1 to 2 hours.
Once frozen, transfer the potatoes to airtight freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags. Be sure to remove as much air as possible from the bags to prevent freezer burn.
Store the frozen smashed potatoes in the freezer for up to 2 to 3 months.

When you're ready to enjoy the frozen smashed potatoes, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. You can reheat them in the microwave, oven, or on the stovetop until heated through.

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