Roast Potatoes in Air Fryer: Crispy and Delicious Every Time

Roast potatoes made in an air fryer are a game-changer for crispy, golden perfection in a fraction of the time compared to traditional roasting. With minimal oil and effort, air fryer roast potatoes are quick, delicious, and perfect as a side dish for any meal.

This guide provides a step-by-step recipe for making the perfect roast potatoes in an air fryer, along with tips for extra crispiness, seasoning ideas, and serving suggestions.

Why Make Roast Potatoes in an Air Fryer?

Air frying is the ideal method for roast potatoes because:

Quick and Convenient: Cooks in half the time compared to an oven.
Crispy Exterior: Hot air circulation creates golden, crispy edges.
Healthier: Uses less oil while delivering the same satisfying crunch.
Energy-Efficient: Saves energy compared to using a full oven.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Roast Potatoes

To make air fryer roast potatoes, you’ll need:

500g potatoes (Maris Piper, King Edward, or Yukon Gold)
1-2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper

Optional:

½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika or smoked paprika
Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs

How to Make Roast Potatoes in an Air Fryer

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Peel and Chop:
- Peel the potatoes and chop them into evenly sized chunks, about 1-2 inches each.
Parboil (Optional):
- Boil the potato chunks in salted water for 5-7 minutes. Drain well and let them dry slightly for crispier results.

Step 2: Season the Potatoes

Toss with Oil:
- Place the potatoes in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Toss to coat evenly.
Add Seasonings:
- Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings like garlic powder or paprika. Toss again to ensure even coverage.

Step 3: Cook in the Air Fryer

Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for 3-5 minutes.
Arrange the Potatoes:
- Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap for even cooking.
Air Fry:
- Cook for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket every 8-10 minutes for even crisping.
Check for Doneness:
- Potatoes should be golden brown and crispy on the outside while soft on the inside.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Roast Potatoes

Choose the Right Potato:
- Waxy potatoes like Maris Piper or King Edward create the crispiest results.
Parboil for Crispiness:
- Parboiling removes excess starch and helps create a fluffy interior.
Avoid Overcrowding:
- Arrange potatoes in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
Shake the Basket:
- Toss the potatoes halfway through cooking to crisp all sides.
Use Minimal Oil:
- Just 1-2 tablespoons of oil are enough for golden results.

Seasoning Ideas for Roast Potatoes

Classic Herb:
- Toss with fresh rosemary, thyme, or sage before cooking.
Garlic Butter:
- Add minced garlic and melted butter after cooking for a rich flavor.
Spicy Kick:
- Sprinkle with chili powder, paprika, and cayenne for heat.
Cheesy:
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan and parsley over the hot potatoes.
Zesty Lemon:
- Add lemon zest and a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh twist.

Serving Suggestions

Air fryer roast potatoes pair beautifully with:

Roasts:
- Serve alongside roast chicken, beef, lamb, or pork.
Seafood:
- Perfect with grilled salmon, prawns, or cod.
Vegetarian Dishes:
- Pair with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Dips:
- Enjoy as a snack with garlic aioli, sour cream, or spicy ketchup.

FAQs About Air Fryer Roast Potatoes

Do I need to parboil the potatoes?
- Parboiling is optional but helps achieve a fluffy interior and crispy exterior.
How long do roast potatoes take in an air fryer?
- They typically take 20-25 minutes, depending on the size of the chunks.
Can I make roast potatoes in advance?
- Yes, reheat them in the air fryer for 5-7 minutes at 180°C (350°F) to restore crispiness.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
- Preheating ensures even cooking and better results.
Can I use frozen potatoes in the air fryer?
- Yes, cook frozen roast potatoes directly in the air fryer. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
How do I make them extra crispy?
- Use less oil, parboil the potatoes, and shake the basket frequently.
Are air fryer roast potatoes healthier?
- Yes, they use significantly less oil than traditional roasting.
Can I cook other vegetables with the potatoes?
- Yes, add carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts for a mixed vegetable roast.

Conclusion

Roast potatoes in an air fryer are a quick, easy, and healthier way to enjoy this classic side dish. With their crispy edges and fluffy centers, they’re perfect for any occasion. Follow this guide to make golden, delicious roast potatoes in under 30 minutes, and customize them with your favorite seasonings for added flair.