Easy Crispy Smashed Potatoes Air Fryer Style

If you’re looking for the ultimate side dish that’s crispy, buttery, and packed with flavor, smashed potatoes air fryer are about to become your new favorite recipe. They’re crunchy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside- so simple to make. Thanks to the magic of the air fryer, you get perfectly golden, crispy potatoes with way less oil and hassle than traditional methods.

It’s amazing a weeknight dinner, a BBQ spread, or just need a snack that everyone will devour, these smashed potatoes deliver every time. Let’s be real—once you try them, there’s no going back!

If you’re into crispy air fryer potato recipes, don’t miss these Air Fryer Red Potatoes for a simple and flavorful side or the Air Fryer Potato Skins for a cheesy and satisfying snack.

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Why You’ll Love These Smashed Potatoes

• Perfectly crispy: The air fryer delivers crunch without the mess of deep frying.
• Quick & easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, including prep time.
• Versatile: Customize the flavors with your favorite seasonings.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves potatoes—these will disappear fast!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb (450 g) baby potatoes (Yukon gold or red potatoes work great)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Optional: Fresh parsley or grated Parmesan for garnish

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Equipment and Tools Needed

• Air Fryer: Any model works as long as it has a basket large enough to spread the potatoes in a single layer.
• Pot or Saucepan: For boiling the potatoes.
• Mixing Bowl: To toss your potatoes with oil and seasonings.
• Potato Masher or Fork: For smashing the potatoes.
• Tongs or Spatula: To handle the potatoes easily.

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How to Make Smashed Potatoes Air Fryer

Boil the Potatoes

Wash the baby potatoes and boil them in a pot of salted water until they’re fork-tender, about 12–15 minutes. Drain and let them cool slightly.

Smash the Potatoes

Place the potatoes on a cutting board or clean surface. Use a potato masher or fork to press down on each potato until it’s about 1/2 inch thick.

Season the Potatoes

In a mixing bowl, toss the smashed potatoes with olive oil, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Make sure they’re evenly coated.

Air Fry

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 2–3 minutes. You arrange the potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket (you may need to cook in batches). Air fry for about 12–15 minutes, flipping them halfway through until they’re crispy brown and golden.

Garnish and Serve Smashed Potatoes Air Fryer

Sprinkle with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese before serving. Serve hot, and enjoy the crispy goodness!

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Tips for the Best Smashed Potatoes in Air Fryer

Don’t over-boil: Cook the potatoes until tender but not falling apart so they hold their shape when smashed.

Single layer is key: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even crispiness.

Experiment with flavors: Add your favorite seasonings, like rosemary or thyme.

Serve immediately: These potatoes are best enjoyed fresh out of the air fryer for maximum crunch.

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What to Serve with Smashed Potatoes in Air Fryer

Smashed potatoes are my favorite side dish that pairs well with just about anything! For a hearty meal, serve them alongside grilled chicken, Steak Quesadilla, or baked salmon—they complement juicy, savory proteins perfectly. They’re also amazing as an appetizer or snack with dipping sauces like sour cream, garlic aioli, or spicy ketchup. Hosting a gathering? Add them to a spread with BIG MAC SLOPPY JOES WITH SECRET SAUCE, ribs, or BBQ chicken for an irresistible crowd-pleaser. No matter the occasion, smashed potatoes fit right in!

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Storing and Reheating Smashed Potatoes

Storing

Place leftover smashed potatoes in an airtight container and you store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating

To bring back their crispiness, reheat the potatoes in your air fryer at temperature 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as they’ll lose their crunch.

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FAQs About Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes

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Smashed Potatoes in Air fryer show how incredible simple ingredients can be. They deliver a fantastic crisp texture and a ton of flavor, making them a versatile side dish for anything from grilled chicken to burgers or even just for dunking in your go-to sauce. This recipe, offering maximum crunch with very little effort, completely revolutionizes the way you think about potatoes. When you’re in need of something comforting and tasty, reach for your air fryer, throw these potatoes together, and get ready to be amazed. Your family will love them, and you will, too!

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