If you love crispy potatoes with a fluffy, tender centre, these Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes are a must-try! They’re golden and crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with delicious garlic and herb flavour. Best of all, they’re incredibly easy to make with just a handful of simple ingredients.
The secret to perfect smashed potatoes is to boil them first until fork-tender, gently flatten them, and then air fry them until the edges become beautifully crispy. The air fryer gives them that irresistible roasted texture without needing lots of oil or heating up your oven.
These crispy smashed potatoes make a fantastic side dish for almost any meal. Serve them alongside grilled chicken, steak, burgers, fish, or your favourite roasted vegetables. They’re also delicious as a party appetiser with sour cream, garlic aioli, or a creamy ranch dip.
Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or looking for a crowd-pleasing snack, this easy Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes recipe is one you’ll want to make again and again!
Ingredients
You only need a few everyday ingredients to prepare these crispy air fryer smashed potatoes.
- 1½ lbs (680g) baby potatoes: Small Yukon Gold or baby red potatoes work especially well. Their creamy centres and thin skins make them perfect for smashing.
- 1½ tablespoons olive oil: Helps the potatoes become golden and crispy in the air fryer. Avocado oil is another good option.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds delicious savoury flavour. You can substitute ½ teaspoon garlic powder if preferred.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavour of the potatoes. Adjust to taste.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a little warmth and seasoning.
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: A mixture of herbs that complements the potatoes beautifully.
Optional toppings:
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- A pinch of smoked paprika
- Sour cream for serving
- Fresh chives
- Crumbled cooked bacon
You can keep the seasoning simple with just olive oil, salt, and pepper, or add your favourite herbs and spices for extra flavour.
How to Make Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
These smashed potatoes are easy to prepare. You’ll boil the potatoes until tender, gently flatten them, season them, and air fry until crispy and golden.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: Approximately 35–40 minutes
Servings: 4
Step 1: Wash the Potatoes
Rinse the baby potatoes under cold running water and scrub away any dirt.
Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. You can leave the skins on because they become deliciously crispy during air frying.
Try to choose potatoes that are similar in size so they cook evenly.
Step 2: Boil Until Fork-Tender
Place the potatoes in a large saucepan and cover them with cold water.
Add a pinch of salt and bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
Reduce the heat and simmer for approximately 12–18 minutes, depending on their size, until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork.
Be careful not to overcook them. They should be tender enough to smash but still hold their shape.
Drain the potatoes thoroughly and allow them to steam-dry for a few minutes.
Step 3: Smash the Potatoes
Place the cooked potatoes on a clean chopping board or a baking tray.
Using the bottom of a glass, a potato masher, or a sturdy fork, gently press each potato until it is flattened to approximately ½ inch (1–1.5cm) thick.
Don’t press too hard, or the potatoes may break apart completely. You want them flattened while still holding together.
The more surface area you create, the crispier the edges will become.
Step 4: Prepare the Seasoning
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Brush or drizzle the mixture over both sides of the smashed potatoes.
Make sure the potatoes are lightly coated so they develop a golden, crispy exterior.
Step 5: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for approximately 2–3 minutes, if your model recommends preheating.
Lightly grease the air fryer basket or use a suitable perforated parchment liner if recommended by your appliance manufacturer.
Step 6: Arrange the Potatoes
Carefully place the smashed potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
Leave some space between each potato so the hot air can circulate properly.
If you’re making a large batch, cook them in batches rather than overcrowding the basket.
Step 7: Air Fry Until Crispy
Air fry the potatoes at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 12–15 minutes.
Check them after about 8 minutes. Depending on your air fryer, you may want to turn them carefully halfway through cooking.
The potatoes are ready when the edges are golden brown and crispy, while the centres remain soft and fluffy.
If you prefer extra-crispy potatoes, add another 2–3 minutes, checking regularly to prevent burning.
Step 8: Add the Finishing Touches
Carefully remove the potatoes from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving plate.
While they’re still hot, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley.
Add a little extra black pepper or smoked paprika if desired.
Serve immediately with your favourite dipping sauce and enjoy!
Recipe Tips
Follow these simple tips to get perfectly crispy Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes every time.
- Choose small potatoes: Baby Yukon Gold and red potatoes are excellent choices because they have creamy centres and hold their shape when smashed.
- Boil until just tender: The potatoes should be soft enough to flatten but not so overcooked that they fall apart.
- Let them dry after boiling: Excess moisture can prevent the potatoes from becoming crispy. Allow them to steam-dry for a few minutes after draining.
- Don’t smash too thin: Flattening them to around ½ inch thick gives you crispy edges and a fluffy middle.
- Use enough oil: A light coating of olive oil helps the potatoes brown and crisp up beautifully.
- Avoid overcrowding: Arrange the potatoes in a single layer with space between them. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Season generously: Garlic, Italian herbs, paprika, and Parmesan all add delicious flavour.
- Don’t be afraid of extra cooking time: Air fryers vary, so add a few extra minutes if your potatoes need more browning.
- Serve immediately: Smashed potatoes are at their crispiest straight from the air fryer.
More Delicious Variations
Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes: Add extra garlic and sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan over the potatoes during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
Spicy Smashed Potatoes: Add cayenne pepper, chilli flakes, or smoked paprika to the seasoning mixture.
Cheesy Smashed Potatoes: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella over the potatoes during the final 1–2 minutes until melted.
Ranch Smashed Potatoes: Replace the Italian seasoning with ranch seasoning for a creamy, savoury flavour.
Rosemary Smashed Potatoes: Add finely chopped fresh rosemary and thyme for a delicious herb-roasted flavour.
Loaded Smashed Potatoes: Top the cooked potatoes with sour cream, crispy bacon pieces, shredded cheddar, and chopped green onions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to boil potatoes before smashing them?
Yes. Boiling the potatoes first makes them tender enough to flatten without breaking apart. It also helps create the contrast between a fluffy centre and crispy exterior.
What are the best potatoes for smashed potatoes?
Baby Yukon Gold and baby red potatoes are excellent choices. They have a creamy texture, thin skins, and hold their shape well after boiling and smashing.
You can also use other small waxy potatoes of a similar size.
How long do smashed potatoes take in the air fryer?
After boiling and smashing, the potatoes generally take 12–15 minutes at 400°F (200°C). The exact time depends on their size, thickness, and your air fryer model.
Why are my smashed potatoes not crispy?
There are a few possible reasons:
- The potatoes were too wet after boiling.
- They were overcrowded in the air fryer basket.
- You didn’t use enough oil.
- They were smashed too thickly.
- They needed a few extra minutes of cooking.
Allow the potatoes to dry after boiling, arrange them in a single layer, and cook until the edges are golden brown.
Can I make smashed potatoes without boiling them?
Boiling is the easiest and most reliable method for achieving a soft centre and crispy edges. Skipping this step can make the potatoes difficult to smash and may result in uneven cooking.
Can I use large potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Yes, but it’s best to cut larger potatoes into smaller, evenly sized pieces before boiling. Once fork-tender, flatten each piece carefully and continue with the recipe.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
No! Leaving the skins on adds extra texture and helps the potatoes hold their shape. Just wash and scrub them thoroughly before cooking.
Can I prepare smashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes. You can boil and smash the potatoes a few hours ahead of time. Allow them to cool, then store them covered in the refrigerator.
When you’re ready to serve, season them with olive oil and herbs, then air fry until golden and crispy.
How do I store leftover smashed potatoes?
Allow the potatoes to cool, then transfer them to an airtight container. Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking and store at 40°F (4°C) or below for up to 3–4 days.
How do I reheat smashed potatoes?
The air fryer is the best way to bring back their crispy texture. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 3–5 minutes, checking regularly until heated through.
You can also use an oven at 350°F (175°C). Microwaving is possible, but the potatoes will become softer rather than crispy.
Can I freeze air fryer smashed potatoes?
Yes! Allow the cooked potatoes to cool completely, arrange them in a single layer on a baking tray, and freeze until firm. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and use within 2–3 months for the best quality.
Reheat from frozen in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) until hot and crispy, allowing extra time as needed.
What can I serve with air fryer smashed potatoes?
These crispy potatoes pair perfectly with grilled chicken, steak, pork chops, burgers, salmon, or roasted vegetables.
They’re also delicious served as an appetiser with sour cream, ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or spicy mayonnaise.
These Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes are the perfect combination of crispy, golden edges and soft, fluffy centres. With simple ingredients and an easy cooking method, they’re a delicious side dish for family dinners, weekend meals, or any occasion when you’re craving perfectly crispy potatoes!
PrintAir Fryer Smashed Potatoes
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 3
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: British
Ingredients
- 500 g small baby potatoes
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- ⅓ cup parmesan cheese grated
- 2 teaspoons garlic granules
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer at 185C/370F while you pre-boil your potatoes.
- Place the potatoes in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook until tender, about 12-15 minutes. Drain the potatoes and set aside, allowing them to steam off.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, olive oil, dried thyme, dried parsley, garlic granules, salt and black pepper. Mix until well combined and taste, adjust seasoning if needed.
- Line the boiled mini potatoes on a baking tray in one even layer. Using a potato masher or the bottom of a glass cup, press down on each potato until it bursts and flattens (crushed).
- Spray the air fryer basket with a spray cooking oil. Place the crushed/smashed baby potatoes inside the air fryer basket and spoon over each potato a generous amount of seasoned oil, making sure each potato is fully coated.
- Air fry at 185C/370F for 15-18 minutes until crispy and golden brown. Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese on top of the potatoes and air fry for an additional 3 minutes, until crispy and golden. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
Smashed potatoes are best served fresh and hot, that is when they are the crispiest. To store, place in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat
Microwave: Place your leftover potatoes in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high power for 2-4 minutes, checking and flipping the potatoes halfway.
Air fryer: Place potatoes in the air fryer or in the oven at 180C/370F for 5-6 minutes or until warmed through to your liking.
Oven: Place the potatoes on a lined baking tray, and bake in a preheated oven at 190C/374F for 12-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
