Golden and crunchy on the outside, fluffy and tender inside—these Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes are the ultimate side dish that pairs effortlessly with anything from grilled meats to veggie mains. Seasoned to perfection and finished with fresh herbs, they deliver everything you love about roasted potatoes without the extra oil or oven heat.

Whether you’re preparing a casual weeknight dinner or jazzing up a weekend brunch plate, these potatoes will win hearts with their irresistible texture and punchy flavor. Best of all, they require minimal prep and cook faster than traditional roasted potatoes thanks to the air fryer.
Ingredients for this Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes
- 1.5 lbs baby potatoes (halved)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for 5 minutes while you prepare the potatoes.
Step 2: Season the Potatoes
In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat each piece evenly.
Step 3: Air Fry in Batches if Needed
Place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding for the crispiest result. Cook in batches if necessary.
Step 4: Cook Until Golden
Air fry the potatoes for 15–18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even crisping. Cook until the edges are crispy and the inside is fork-tender.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot with your favorite main course or enjoy as a snack.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep the potatoes from sticking in the air fryer?
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray before adding the potatoes. Also, make sure not to overcrowd the basket.
Can I use larger potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Yes, just cut them into evenly-sized chunks so they cook uniformly and crisp well.
What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
You can use regular paprika, chili powder, or a pinch of cayenne for a bit of heat.
Can I make these potatoes oil-free?
You can reduce the oil, but completely omitting it may impact the crispiness. Consider using a light oil spray instead.
Are these good for meal prep?
Definitely! They store and reheat well, making them great for prepping ahead.
Do I need to boil the potatoes first?
No boiling needed! The air fryer does all the work to get them tender and crisp.

Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes
- Total Time: 8 minute
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes are a must-try for anyone who craves that golden crunch with soft, fluffy centers. These bite-sized gems are the perfect easy recipe for weeknight dinners, casual lunches, or even breakfast ideas. Packed with flavor and texture, they’re one of those healthy snack options you’ll keep coming back to. Best of all? They’re quick to make and don’t require heating up your kitchen with the oven. Whether you need food ideas for a cookout or a reliable dinner side, these potatoes deliver every time.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs baby potatoes (halved)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss halved baby potatoes with olive oil and all the spices.
- Spread them in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
- Category: Side Dish