**The Best Crispy Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes (Ready in 20 Mins)**
As a self-proclaimed cooking enthusiast, I’ve had my fair share of kitchen disasters. One such incident that still haunts me is the time I attempted to make roasted potatoes for a dinner party. The result? A batch of sad, soggy spuds that even the most adventurous eaters wouldn’t touch.
Fast forward to today, and I’m thrilled to share with you my game-changing air fryer technique for creating the crispiest, most mouthwatering smashed potatoes in just 20 minutes!
**Why This Recipe Works**
The secret to these addictive Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes lies in the perfect blend of texture and health. By cooking the potatoes at a low temperature with minimal oil, we can achieve a satisfying crunch without sacrificing their natural sweetness or nutrient content.
**Ingredients:**
* 3-4 large Russet potatoes
* 1 tablespoon olive oil (I recommend using **Chosen Foods Avocado Oil** for its mild flavor and high smoke point)
* Salt, to taste
* Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or your favorite seasonings
Substitutions:
* Sweet potatoes or Yukon Golds work well too!
* If you don’t have olive oil, use a neutral-tasting oil like canola or grapeseed.
**Step-by-Step:**
1. **Preheat the Air Fryer**: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Yes, it’s hot! But trust me, this is crucial for that perfect crispiness.
2. **Wash and dry those spuds**: Give your potatoes a good rinse under cold water, then gently scrub them with a vegetable brush to remove any dirt or debris. Dry the potatoes thoroughly using paper towels or a clean cloth to help them brown evenly in the air fryer.
3. **Smash ’em**: Place a potato on a flat surface and gently smash it using a heavy object (like a meat tenderizer or a rolling pin) or your hands. Don’t overdo it – you want to retain some of that natural texture. Repeat with the remaining potatoes.
4. **Season with love**: Sprinkle both sides of each smashed potato with salt and any additional seasonings you like (I’m a fan of garlic powder).
5. **Load up the Air Fryer**: Place 2-3 smashed potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between them for even cooking.
6. **Cook to perfection**: Cook the potatoes at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes. Halfway through, shake the basket gently to redistribute the spuds and ensure even browning.
7. **Check for crispiness**: After 10 minutes, check on your potatoes. If they need a bit more time, continue cooking in 2-minute increments until you achieve that perfect crispiness.
**The “Secret Trick”**
Here’s my pro-tip: To take these Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes to the next level, try sprinkling a pinch of cornstarch over them before cooking. This simple trick helps absorb excess moisture and enhances the potatoes’ natural sweetness – resulting in an even crisper exterior!
**FAQs:**
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! Cook the smashed potatoes until they’re almost done, then finish them off in the oven (around 200°F or 90°C) for a few minutes before serving.
Q: How do I store leftover Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes?
A: Let them cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat as needed in the air fryer or oven.
Q: Can I use other seasonings or herbs?
A: Absolutely! Experiment with your favorite flavors like chili powder, smoked paprika, or even fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Get ready to impress your friends and family with this mouthwatering Air Fryer Smashed Potato recipe. With its perfect blend of texture and health, you’ll be hooked from the very first bite!
Try it out today and let me know in the comments how it turns out!
