De-Coding Air Fryer Potatoes
For the unfamiliar, air frying is a healthier way of cooking in which hot air creates the crispy feeling of fried food (while keeping it healthier by skipping the boatloads of oil). This countertop appliance cooks almost everything (for real, find out how to air fry any vegetable here!). In this handy guide, we’re going over how to cook several types of potatoes in the air fryer, including regular potatoes like Russet potatoes and Yukon Gold potatoes, baby potatoes, red potatoes, and sweet potatoes! Follow our easy step-by-step instructions and photos to make the most tender baked potatoes, crispiest homemade French fries (or sweet potato fries), and crunchy homemade potato chips!
Here’s What You’ll Need
Great news! You only need 3 basic ingredients to make the most drool-worthy, crispy air fryer potatoes.
Potatoes: You can use virtually any type of potato in the air fryer (sweet potatoes, Russets, Yukon Golds, baby potatoes, red—take your pick!). Oil: I recommend using a neutral vegetable oil with a high smoke point. Some of the best options include grapeseed, sunflower, and safflower oil. Seasonings: We’ll just be using a dash of salt, but feel free to season your potatoes with any fresh herbs, dried herbs, or spices you like! (Find some tasty ideas below.)
How to Air Fry Baked Potatoes
Air fryer baked potatoes are a bit crispy on the outside and perfectly tender and delicious on the inside. Here’s what to do for white and sweet potatoes. Step 1: Preheat The Air FryerGet that puppy up to 390°F (200°C), then rub the potatoes in a little vegetable oil and sprinkle with salt. Step 2: Air Fry The PotatoesCook the potatoes for 30 to 45 minutes until they are fork-tender.
How to Air Fry French Fries
If I’m being honest, French fries are the food most familiar to my air fryer. They’re just so easy when you’re craving “fast food!” You can easily throw frozen fries in an air fryer, but today, we’re sticking to homemade. Step 1: Cut The FriesCut the potatoes into matchsticks using either a knife or a mandoline slicer. Step 2: Soak The PotatoesSoak your sliced potatoes in a bowl of cold water for 1 to 2 hours. Step 3: Season The FriesAgain, get your air fryer up to 390°F (200°C) before placing the fries in. Drain and pat dry the potatoes. Add them to a bowl, then drizzle with vegetable oil (about 1 teaspoon per potato) and a pinch of salt. Step 4: Air Fry The PotatoesAdd fries to your air fryer, spreading them out in as single a layer as possible. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes until crispy.
How to Air Fry Potato Chips
Air fryer potato chips (both classic and sweet) are so fun to make! Compared to traditional ovens, the air fryer makes your chips ultra-crispy and light. Step 1: Slice The PotatoesCut your potatoes into thin rounds using either a knife or a mandoline slicer. Step 2: Soak The SlicesSoak sliced potatoes in a bowl of cold water for 1 to 2 hours. Step 3: Season The SlicesPreheat the air fryer to 300°F (150°C) again, then drain and pat dry potatoes. Add to a bowl and drizzle with vegetable oil (about 1 teaspoon per potato) and a pinch of salt. Step 4: Cook The ChipsAdd potatoes to your air fryer. Cook for 20 to 30 minutes until crispy.
Seasoning Ideas
Switch up this easy side dish with some of these flavor variations!
Italian Seasoning: Mix 2 Tbsp basil, 2 Tbsp oregano, 1 Tbsp rosemary, 1 tsp marjoram, 1 tsp thyme, and 1 tsp sage. Cajun Seasoning: Combine 2 Tbsp paprika, 1 Tbsp garlic powder, 1 Tbsp onion powder, 1 tsp cayenne, 1 tsp thyme, 1 tsp oregano, and 1 tsp black pepper. Taco Seasoning: Mix 1 Tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, ½ tsp paprika, and ½ tsp oregano. Cheesy: Toss your potatoes with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of garlic powder and onion powder for a cheesy, savory punch.
