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Crispy Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Parmesan

air fryer smashed potatoes with parmesan - featured image

These crispy Parmesan smashed potatoes are boiled, smashed, and air-fried to golden perfection. They’re quick, easy, and irresistibly crunchy with creamy centers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs (680g) baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup (50g) finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt (for boiling)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (for seasoning)
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Place the baby potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water by about an inch. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain in a colander and let sit for 2-3 minutes to steam dry.
  2. While the potatoes are boiling, preheat the air fryer to 400Β°F (200Β°C).
  3. Transfer the drained potatoes to a parchment-lined baking sheet or cutting board. Using a flat-bottomed glass or mug, gently press down on each potato until it’s about 1/2-inch thick.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and the black pepper. Brush or drizzle this mixture over the smashed potatoes, making sure to coat both sides.
  5. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan evenly over the tops of the potatoes.
  6. Carefully transfer the potatoes to the air fryer basket in a single layer with space between each. Cook at 400Β°F (200Β°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are deep golden brown and the Parmesan is crispy and bubbly.
  7. Remove the potatoes from the air fryer and let rest for 2-3 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes if using. Serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan and don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Boil potatoes in heavily salted water and let them steam dry before smashing to ensure maximum crispiness. If your air fryer runs hot, reduce temperature to 375Β°F (190Β°C) and cook a few minutes longer.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer smashed potatoes, crispy potatoes, parmesan potatoes, baby potatoes, easy side dish, vegetarian, gluten-free