If you love potatoes in all forms—fries, mashed, roasted—then you’re in for a treat! Air Fryer Golden Potato Smashers are the perfect balance of crispy and fluffy, giving you the best of both worlds. They’re lightly golden on the outside, soft and tender on the inside, and packed with flavor.
These little bites are not only incredibly easy to make but also a healthier alternative to deep-fried potatoes. With just a handful of ingredients and an air fryer, you can whip up a batch of these golden delights in no time.
Whether you serve them as a side dish, a snack, or even as an appetizer, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Potato Smashers
• Crispy & Crunchy – The air fryer creates an irresistible golden-brown crisp without excess oil.
• Soft & Fluffy Inside – The perfect contrast of textures makes every bite satisfying.
• Healthier Alternative – Uses less oil than traditional frying.
• Quick & Easy – Minimal prep and cook time!
• Customizable – You can season them in countless ways to match your taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is simple and uses everyday ingredients:
• 1.5 lbs baby gold potatoes (or any small potatoes)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter for extra flavor)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky kick)
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp dried thyme or rosemary (optional, for extra herby goodness)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, but adds delicious crispiness)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Your favorite dipping sauce (such as garlic aioli, sour cream, or spicy mayo)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
• Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil.
• Add the baby potatoes and cook for 12–15 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
• Drain and let them cool slightly for a few minutes.
Step 2: Smash the Potatoes
• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
• Place the cooked potatoes on a baking sheet or cutting board.
• Use a fork, the bottom of a glass, or a potato masher to gently press down on each potato until slightly flattened. Be careful not to break them apart completely!
Step 3: Season & Coat
• In a small bowl, mix the olive oil (or melted butter) with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Brush or drizzle the mixture over the smashed potatoes, making sure they’re well coated.
• Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra crispiness and flavor.
Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection
• Arrange the potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. (Do not overcrowd—cook in batches if necessary.)
• Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re crispy and golden brown.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
• Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce!
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Potato Smashers
✔ Use baby or small potatoes – They cook faster and get crispier.
✔ Smash gently – Press down just enough to flatten, but not too much that they fall apart.
✔ Don’t overcrowd the air fryer – Air circulation is key to getting that golden crunch.
✔ Season generously – Experiment with different spices like Cajun seasoning, lemon pepper, or rosemary.
✔ Add a cheesy twist – Try topping with shredded cheddar or crumbled feta before serving.
Perfect Pairings
These crispy potato smashers pair beautifully with a variety of dishes! Here are some ideas:
• With proteins – Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or salmon.
• As a snack – Dip them in ranch, garlic aioli, or hot sauce.
• For brunch – Pair with eggs and avocado toast.
• As a party appetizer – Serve with a selection of dips and toppings.
Why the Air Fryer Works Best
The air fryer creates the perfect crispy texture while keeping the inside soft and fluffy. Plus, it reduces the amount of oil needed, making these potatoes a healthier alternative to deep frying.
No air fryer? No problem! You can also bake them in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Golden Potato Smashers are proof that simple ingredients can create big flavors. They’re crispy, buttery, and packed with seasoning, making them a must-try for any potato lover.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your air fryer and give these crispy smashed potatoes a try!
Have you made these? Let me know in the comments how they turned out!