Air fryer little potatoes: 7 irresistible ways to savor them

Name: Air fryer little potatoes: 7 irresistible ways to savor them
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb little potatoes; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp paprika; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste

By:

Christina R. Jones

November 27, 2025

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If you’re looking for a quick and delicious side dish, let me tell you about my favorite way to prepare air fryer little potatoes! These tiny gems come out perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining fluffy and tender on the inside. Seriously, you won’t believe how much flavor is packed into these little guys with just a handful of ingredients. Just the other night, I whipped up a batch to go with grilled chicken, and oh boy, they stole the show! It took me less than 30 minutes from start to finish, and the aroma wafting through my kitchen was heavenly.

What I love most about air fryer little potatoes is how versatile they are. You can season them however you like, and they always turn out great. Plus, you won’t have to worry about heating up your entire oven. Trust me, once you try this method, you’ll never go back to boiling or roasting them the old-fashioned way. So, let’s dive in and get cooking!

Ingredients List

1 lb little potatoes, washed and dried
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

How to Prepare Air Fryer Little Potatoes

Now, let’s get those air fryer little potatoes cooking! I promise this is going to be a breeze. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be in potato heaven in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your air fryer: Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is super important because it ensures those little potatoes get that lovely crispy exterior we all crave!
Wash and dry the potatoes: Give your little potatoes a good wash under cool running water to get rid of any dirt. After that, pat them dry with a clean towel. This helps the oil and seasonings stick better.
Season the potatoes: In a mixing bowl, toss the washed little potatoes with the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure every potato is nicely coated! My secret tip? Use your hands for this – it’s way more effective than a spoon!
Add to the air fryer: Carefully place the seasoned potatoes into the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd them; they need space to cook evenly. If you have a lot, consider doing them in batches.
Cooking time: Cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This helps them cook evenly and get that perfect crispiness.
Check for doneness: After the cooking time, grab a fork and poke a potato. It should be tender and easily pierced. If they’re still a bit firm, pop them back in for a couple more minutes.
Serve hot: Once they’re done, remove the potatoes from the air fryer and serve them hot. They’re best enjoyed fresh, so dig in right away!

And there you have it! A quick and easy way to prepare air fryer little potatoes that will impress everyone at your table. Enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Let’s talk numbers! The nutritional values for these air fryer little potatoes are pretty impressive and make them a great addition to any meal. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary slightly based on the size of your potatoes and how much oil you use.

Calories: 150
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 3g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 200mg
Cholesterol: 0mg

These little potatoes pack a punch while keeping things light and healthy. With their delightful flavor and satisfying texture, they’re the perfect guilt-free side dish!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your air fryer little potatoes turn out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite tips that I swear by to elevate these little beauties:

Adjusting Spices to Your Taste

Feel free to play around with the seasonings! If you love a bit of heat, toss in some cayenne pepper or chili powder. Want to add a fresh twist? Try mixing in some chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme before air frying. Just remember, start with a little and adjust as you go – it’s easier to add than to take away!

Ensuring Even Cooking

Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket! This is key to getting that perfect golden crisp all around. If you have a lot of potatoes, cook them in batches. Trust me, it’s worth it when you see those little potatoes come out evenly cooked and crispy. Also, give the basket a shake halfway through cooking – it really makes a difference!

Checking for Doneness

The fork test is your best friend here! When you poke a potato, it should glide through easily. If you’re not sure, give it another minute or two in the air fryer. I always find it helpful to check a few potatoes instead of just one, ensuring every bite is just right.

These little tips will help you nail your air fryer little potatoes every single time. Happy cooking!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous with your air fryer little potatoes, there are so many fun ways to switch things up! Here are some of my favorite variations that add a little flair and excitement to this already delicious recipe:

Herb-Infused Potatoes

For a fresh twist, try tossing in some chopped fresh herbs. Rosemary, thyme, or parsley work wonders! Just add them in with the olive oil and seasonings before air frying. The aroma of the herbs combined with the potatoes will make your kitchen smell divine!

Spicy Kick

If you love a bit of heat, kick up the flavor with some crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. Just a pinch can transform your little potatoes into a spicy side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or tacos. Wow, your taste buds will thank you!

Cheesy Goodness

Who doesn’t love cheese? After air frying, sprinkle some grated Parmesan or your favorite cheese on top. Pop them back in the air fryer for a couple of minutes until the cheese melts and gets all gooey. It’s an indulgent treat that takes these little potatoes to the next level!

Veggie Medley

Want to sneak in some extra veggies? Add in some sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots to the air fryer basket along with the little potatoes. Just remember to cut them to a similar size to ensure everything cooks evenly. This not only adds color but also a variety of flavors and nutrients to your dish!

Lemon Zest Delight

For a bright, zesty flavor, grate some lemon zest over the potatoes before serving. It adds a refreshing twist that complements the natural earthiness of the potatoes beautifully. A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving takes it even further!

These variations can help keep your air fryer little potatoes exciting and new every time you make them. Experiment and find your favorite combo – the possibilities are endless!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got your air fryer little potatoes cooked to perfection, let’s talk about how to serve them up! These delightful little bites are incredibly versatile and can complement a variety of dishes, making them the perfect side for any meal.

For a classic pairing, serve them alongside grilled meats like chicken, steak, or pork chops. The crispy texture and seasoned flavor of the potatoes balance beautifully with the savory richness of the meats. Trust me, they’ll be the star of your dinner plate!

If you’re in the mood for something lighter, these little potatoes also shine with fresh salads. Imagine a vibrant spinach salad topped with grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette, with a side of your air fryer little potatoes. It’s a match made in heaven!

Hosting a brunch? Serve these potatoes as part of a hearty breakfast spread. They’re fantastic alongside scrambled eggs, bacon, or even a savory frittata. Just picture it: crispy little potatoes nestled next to fluffy eggs – yum!

For a vegetarian option, pair them with roasted vegetables and a creamy dip – think hummus or tzatziki. The combination of textures and flavors will make your meal feel extra special without much fuss.

No matter how you choose to serve them, air fryer little potatoes add that scrumptious touch to any meal, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering with friends. Enjoy experimenting with different pairings and let your creativity shine in the kitchen!

FAQ Section

Got questions about air fryer little potatoes? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I get, along with my best answers to help you out.

Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?

Absolutely! While little potatoes are perfect for this recipe, you can use other varieties like baby Yukon Golds or even fingerling potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly depending on the size and type of potatoes you choose. Always check for doneness with a fork!

What can I do if my potatoes aren’t crispy enough?

If your air fryer little potatoes aren’t as crispy as you’d like, try a couple of things. First, make sure you’re not overcrowding the basket – giving them space helps them crisp up evenly. If they still need a bit more crunch, pop them back in the air fryer for an extra 2-3 minutes. A little patience goes a long way!

Can I prepare the potatoes ahead of time?

You can prep the little potatoes ahead of time by washing and cutting them, then storing them in a sealed container in the fridge. Just make sure to toss them with olive oil and seasonings right before cooking for the best flavor. I wouldn’t recommend cooking them too far in advance, though, as they really shine when served fresh!

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare, trust me!), let the potatoes cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should be good for about 3-4 days. Just reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes before serving to bring back that crispy texture!

Can I make these potatoes in the oven instead of the air fryer?

You sure can! If you don’t have an air fryer, simply spread the seasoned little potatoes on a baking sheet and roast them in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 25-30 minutes, tossing them halfway through. They won’t be quite as crispy, but they’ll still be delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep and about 20 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have these air fryer little potatoes ready to enjoy in under 30 minutes!
Effortless Cooking: The air fryer makes the process so easy – no need to watch over them like you would on the stove or in the oven. Just set the temperature and let the magic happen!
Incredible Flavor: The combination of garlic powder, paprika, and olive oil gives these little potatoes a mouthwatering flavor that’s hard to resist. Plus, you can customize the spices to fit your taste!
Crispy Texture: The air fryer creates a perfectly crispy exterior while keeping the insides fluffy and tender – it’s the best of both worlds!
Versatile Side Dish: These little potatoes pair beautifully with just about any main dish, from grilled meats to fresh salads, making them a go-to side for any meal.
Healthier Option: Cooking with less oil than traditional frying means you can indulge without feeling guilty. They’re a delicious and nutritious addition to your plate!