Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This ensures the potatoes cook evenly and get that desired crispiness.
Step 2: Season the Baby Potatoes
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried rosemary (or thyme), salt, black pepper, and chili flakes (if using).
- Add the baby potatoes to the bowl and toss them until they are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
Step 3: Air Fry the Potatoes
- Place the seasoned baby potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. If necessary, cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking.
- Air fry the potatoes at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping.
- Check for doneness by inserting a fork into a potato; it should be tender inside and crispy on the outside. Depending on the size of your potatoes, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
Step 4: Serve
- Once cooked, remove the baby potatoes from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving dish.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and, if desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve hot as a side dish or a snack.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Baby Potatoes
- Even Sizing: Try to select baby potatoes of similar size for even cooking. If some are larger, consider cutting them in half.
- Shake the Basket: Shaking the basket halfway through cooking helps the potatoes brown evenly on all sides.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to switch up the spices and herbs to create your favorite flavor combinations. Try adding cumin, curry powder, or even lemon zest.
Variations
- Herb Butter Potatoes: Toss the cooked potatoes in melted herb butter just before serving.
- Cheesy Potatoes: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the potatoes in the last 2 minutes of cooking for a cheesy twist.
- Garlic Parmesan Potatoes: Increase the garlic powder and add a generous amount of Parmesan cheese for a classic flavor combination.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Baby Potatoes are a fantastic, versatile dish that’s quick to prepare and easy to customize. Their crispy exterior and fluffy interior make them a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy these flavorful potatoes as a side dish, appetizer, or even a snack, and watch them disappear from the plate in no time!