crispiest smashed potatoes made in the air fryer
Crispy potatoes are the best and probably my favorite side dish! I thought these air fryer fingerling potatoes and air fryer sweet potato cubes were crispy, but just wait until you try mashed potatoes. They are NEXT-LEVEL fluffy on the inside and crispy on the outside.
Air fryer smashed potatoes make for the perfect side dish to any meal. They’re incredibly crispy, with a buttery, garlicky flavor, and finished with rosemary.
As you can probably tell, I am obsessed with this recipe. Air-fried smashed potatoes are easy to make and only require five simple ingredients. I left step-by-step instructions with pictures so that any level of cook can make these delicious potatoes.
They’re perfect for family dinners; your kids will love them, and you can even serve them as a Game Day or Holiday appetizer. These smashed potatoes are about to be your new favorite air fryer recipe. You can even watch the video to see exactly how to make them!
why you’ll love this easy recipe:
- Quick & Easy: Any level cook can make these with just 5 ingredients.
- So Delicious: They are super tasty with a buttery, herb flavor.
- Crispy: Extra crispy potatoes with tender, fluffy insides.
- Side Dish: The perfect side dish for any dinner.
- 100% Gluten-Free: An easy gluten-free recipe!
- Vegan Option: Easily make these air fryer smashed potatoes vegan and dairy-free.
- Video Tutorial Below: Full tasty-style video to see how to make these air fryer smashed potatoes.
- Try these air fryer sweet potato cubes for another fun and delicious recipe!
ingredients needed
You only need five ingredients plus salt and pepper to make these super crispy air fryer smashed potatoes! They make for the perfect quick side dish and appetizer. Here is a list of ingredients:
- Baby Gold Potatoes: The main ingredient! Grab about 8 – 10 small potatoes (or 1 pound).
- Butter: Honestly, butter makes everything taste better. You’ll need 1 Tablespoon to add the perfect rich flavor.
- Olive Oil: The key to making these mashed potatoes extra crispy!
- Garlic Powder: I love garlic, especially with potatoes. We use garlic powder to get the taste and avoid burning fresh garlic.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Seasoning to your preference.
- Parsley or Rosemary: For the perfect fresh garnish.
kitchen tools needed
This recipe requires a few different kitchen tools. Here is a list, so you are prepared and ready to cook!
- Air Fryer
- Spatula
- Medium Pot
- Measuring Tools: 1/2 teaspoon and 1 Tablespoon.
how to make crispy air fryer smashed potatoes
These homemade crispy smashed potatoes are made in a few simple steps right in your air fryer! They are crisp on the outside and tender on the inside. Here are step-by-step instructions with pictures for visual reference:
step 1:
First, boil a pot of water over high heat and add two teaspoons of salt. Meanwhile, wash and dry the potatoes, then add them to the boiling water and cook for 15 – 25 minutes, depending on the size of the potatoes. They should be fully cooked and fork-tender soft. Alternatively, you can air fry or microwave them (instructions below).
step 2:
When the potatoes are cooked, drain them in a colander and let them sit for 5 minutes until they can be handled safely. Meanwhile, preheat your air fryer to 400°F and coat it with non-stick or olive oil spray.
step 3:
Then, transfer the potatoes to a large sheet pan and use the bottom of a cup or serving fork to gently “smash” them. The thinner the potatoes, the crispier they will be. Be generous with the salt and pepper.
step 4:
Next, drizzle with the melted butter first, followed by the olive oil. Then, sprinkle with the garlic powder, pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. I recommend being generous with salt and pepper. Then, Using a spatula, carefully add the “smashed” potatoes into the preheated air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap, or they will not get crispy.
step 5:
Finally, air fry for 15 – 20 minutes until the potatoes are super crispy and golden. Do not flip them while cooking! Serve hot, garnished with parsley and flakey sea salt if desired.
expert recipe tips:
- Using Baby Potatoes: Opt for baby potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes.
- Preheating Air Fryer: Always preheat the air fryer for a few minutes before adding the potatoes. This ensures they start cooking immediately, producing a more consistent and crispy result.
- Avoid Overcrowding: My #1 tip. Arrange the “smashed” baby potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket to prevent overcrowding. This allows each potato to crisp up evenly. If your air fryer basket is too small, cook in batches.
- Oil and Butter Combo: Combine olive oil for a high smoke point and butter for a rich flavor. Brush this mixture generously on the smashed baby potatoes before air frying to achieve a delightful balance of crispiness and taste.
- Vegan Option: Use dairy-free butter to make these smashed potatoes 100% vegan and dairy-free.
- Oven Option: If an air fryer is unavailable, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the smashed baby potatoes on a baking sheet and follow the same oil and seasoning steps. Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
what to serve with smashed potatoes:
Devour these air fryer smashed potatoes straight out of the fryer for that unbeatable crispiness. Here is a list of the best dishes to accompany smashed potatoes:
Garnishes:
- Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley, chives, or rosemary
- Cheesy: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese or vegan Parmesan
- Spicy: Red pepper flakes
- Sauces: Garlic aioli, ranch, guacamole, or caesar.
You can enjoy smashed potatoes as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. They pair really well with chicken dishes like Air Fryer Chicken Thighs, Goat Cheese & Pesto Crusted Chicken, and Crustless Chicken Pot Pie. They also go super well with these Zucchini Turkey Meatballs, this Creamy Tomato Soup, and these Shrimp Skewers. Check out these 100+ Dinner Recipes.
frequently asked questions
Can I use any type of potato for mashed potatoes?
You can use a variety of potatoes, but smaller ones like baby potatoes, red potatoes, or Yukon Golds work well for a creamy texture. I do not recommend using russet potatoes or sweet potatoes for this recipe.
What’s the ideal thickness for smashing the potatoes?
Aim for a thickness of about 1/2 to 3/4 inch to achieve a balance of crispy edges and a creamy interior.
Can I microwave the potatoes instead of boiling them?
Yes! Just add the cleaned whole potatoes to a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high for about 5 – 8 minutes until cooked, then continue with step 4 to air fry.
Can I air fry the potatoes instead of boiling them?
You can use your air fryer for the whole cooking process instead of boiling the potatoes to soften them. To do that, add the cleaned potatoes to the air fryer at 400°F for 15 – 20 minutes, then continue with step 4.
Can I make them vegan?
Yes, make these smashed potatoes vegan with vegan butter, or substitute the butter for an extra tablespoon of olive oil.
What if my air fryer basket is small?
If your air fryer basket doesn’t fit all the potatoes, cook in two batches to ensure maximum crispiness.
Can I make them in my oven?
Of course. If you don’t have an air fryer, preheat your oven to 425°F and evenly space out your seasoned, smashed potatoes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure they don’t overlap. Then, bake for 25-35 minutes, until crispy and golden.
What temperature is best to air fry smashed potatoes?
Air fry them at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 – 20 minutes for crispy and fluffy mashed potatoes.
Can I freeze mashed potatoes?
While it’s possible, I do not recommend freezing mashed potatoes. It will affect the texture.
How to store and reheat smashed potatoes:
Smashed potatoes are best served warm and fresh out of the air fryer. However, they can be stored for up to 5 days in a covered container in the refrigerator. To reheat, air fry at 400°F for 5 – 8 minutes until warm.
If you loved this recipe, try these air fryer recipes next!
- Air Fryer Quesadillas
- Air Fried Sweet Potato Wedges
- Air Fryer Hash Browns
- Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes
- Air Fryer Pita Chips
- Air Fryer Pizza Rolls
- Air Fryer Tortellini
- Crispiest Air Fryer Gnocchi
- Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes
Did you make this recipe?
If you make this recipe, be sure to comment and rate it down below. Also, don’t forget to tag me @talktrendon Instagram and use the hashtag #healthfulblondie so I can see your delicious creation and share it with my followers!
Crispy Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
Ingredients
- 1 lb baby gold potatoes, about 8 – 10 small potatoes
- 1 Tbsp butter, melted
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Bring a pot of water to a boil over high heat and add in 2 teaspoons of salt. Meanwhile, wash and dry the potatoes, then add them to the boiling water and cook for 15 – 25 minutes, depending on the size of the potatoes. They should be fully cooked and fork-tender soft. Alternatively, you can air fry or microwave them (instructions below).
- When the potatoes are cooked, drain them in a colander and let them sit for 5 minutes until they can be handled safely.
- Meanwhile, preheat your air fryer to 400°F and coat with non-stick or olive oil spray.
- Transfer the potatoes to a large sheet pan and use the bottom of a cup or serving fork to gently “smash” them. The thinner the potatoes, the crispier they will be. Be generous with the salt and pepper.
- Drizzle with the melted butter first, followed by olive oil. Then, sprinkle with the garlic powder, pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. I recommend being generous with salt and pepper.
- Using a spatula, carefully add the smashed potatoes into the preheat air fryer basket, making sure they do not overlap or else they will not get crispy.
- Air fry for 15 – 20 minutes, until the potatoes are super crispy and golden. Do not flip them while cooking!
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley and flakey sea salt if desired.
Notes
Microwaving Potatoes: Add cleaned whole potatoes to a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high for about 5 – 8 minutes until cooked, then continue with step 4.
Air Frying Potatoes: Add cleaned whole potatoes to air fryer at 400°F for 15 – 20 minutes, then continue with step 4.
Make them Vegan: Use vegan butter or substitute with an additional 1 Tablespoon of olive oil.
Garlic Powder: I do not recommend substituting with fresh garlic (it will burn in the air fryer), you can use onion powder or paprika instead.
Storing & Reheating: Smashed potatoes are best served warm and fresh out of the air fryer. However, they can be but can be stored for up to 5 days in a covered container in the refrigerator. To reheat, air fry at 400°F for 5 – 8 minutes until warm.
