- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly. If using larger potatoes, cut them into 1-inch chunks.
- Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Add a pinch of salt.
- Bring to a boil and cook for about 12-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender but not mushy.
- Drain and Cool:
- Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly. Pat them dry with a kitchen towel.
- Smash the Potatoes:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
- Place the cooked potatoes on a baking sheet or a large plate.
- Use the bottom of a glass, a potato masher, or a fork to gently smash each potato until it’s about 1/2 inch thick. Be careful not to flatten them too much.
- Season the Potatoes:
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried rosemary (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Brush or drizzle the seasoned olive oil mixture over each smashed potato, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Air Fry the Potatoes:
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or lightly brush with oil.
- Arrange the smashed potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are crispy and golden brown. Shake the basket halfway through for even cooking.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the potatoes from the air fryer and let them cool slightly.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, and additional salt and pepper if desired.
Tips for Success
- Uniform Size: Try to cut the potatoes into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating ensures a crispier result and even cooking.
- Smashing the Potatoes: Make sure the potatoes are well-drained and dry before smashing to achieve a crispy texture.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding, which can prevent even crisping.
Variations
- Cheesy Smashed Potatoes: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese over the potatoes during the last 2 minutes of air frying.
- Spicy Smashed Potatoes: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herbed Smashed Potatoes: Use fresh herbs like thyme, dill, or basil in place of dried rosemary for a different flavor profile.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to regain crispiness. You can also reheat in a conventional oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes.
These Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes are a versatile and flavorful side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Enjoy the perfect combination of crispy exterior and fluffy interior with this easy recipe!