Air Fryer Garlic Potatoes

This crispy air fryer garlic parmesan potato recipe transforms simple ingredients into a showstopping side dish with minimal effort. The combination of fresh garlic and quality parmesan creates an irresistible savory coating that crisps perfectly in the air fryer while keeping the insides fluffy and tender.

I discovered this recipe when my oven broke during a holiday dinner party. These potatoes saved the day and have since become our family's most requested side dish. My teenagers even choose these over french fries when given the option.

• Baby potatoes: Their small size and waxy texture make them perfect for crisping while maintaining a creamy interior. Look for firm potatoes without sprouts.
• Olive oil: Use a good quality olive oil for the best flavor but avoid extra virgin which has a low smoke point.
• Fresh garlic: The aromatic foundation that infuses the potatoes as they cook. Choose firm cloves with tight skin.
• Garlic powder: Provides consistent flavor throughout and helps create the crispy exterior.
• Onion powder: Adds subtle depth and complexity without overpowering the garlic.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors. Kosher salt works best here.
• Freshly grated parmesan: True Parmigiano Reggiano makes a noticeable difference with its nutty complex flavor. Avoid pre grated varieties with anticaking agents.
• Fresh chives: Optional but adds bright color and a mild onion flavor that balances the rich garlic and cheese.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the potatoes:

Thoroughly wash the baby potatoes under cold water using a brush to remove any dirt. Pat completely dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel this is crucial for achieving crispiness. Cut them into halves or quarters depending on size aiming for relatively uniform pieces so they cook evenly.

Preheat and season:

Preheat your air fryer to 390°F which is the ideal temperature for creating a crispy exterior while cooking the interior properly. In a large bowl toss the potatoes with olive oil ensuring each piece is lightly coated. Add the minced fresh garlic garlic powder onion powder salt and pepper mixing thoroughly to distribute seasonings evenly. The oil helps the seasonings adhere to the potatoes.

Add first layer of cheese:

Sprinkle half of your freshly grated parmesan over the seasoned potatoes and toss again. This initial cheese layer will melt and create a flavor base that penetrates the potatoes during cooking. The cheese also helps create those desirable crispy bits.

Begin air frying:

Lightly spray the preheated air fryer basket with cooking oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the potatoes in a single layer if possible or with minimal overlapping. Set the timer for 25 minutes total but plan to shake the basket every 5 minutes which ensures even cooking and prevents any potatoes from becoming too dark on one side.

Add final cheese layer:

At the 20minute mark add the remaining parmesan cheese over the partially cooked potatoes and shake the basket again. This second addition creates a fresh cheesy crust that becomes golden and crispy during the final cooking minutes. Continue cooking for 3 to 7 more minutes depending on potato size.

Finish and serve:

Test for doneness by inserting a fork into the largest piece it should slide in easily. Remove from the air fryer and immediately transfer to a serving dish. Sprinkle with fresh chopped chives and additional parmesan if desired. Serve right away while still hot and at peak crispness.

Parmesan cheese is truly the star ingredient in this recipe. I once made these with an aged 24month Parmigiano Reggiano that I splurged on at an Italian market, and the depth of flavor was absolutely incredible. My husband now insists we always keep quality parmesan on hand specifically for this recipe.

Perfect Pairings

These crispy garlic parmesan potatoes complement nearly any protein, but they shine especially alongside grilled chicken, roasted fish, or a juicy steak. The savory garlic notes and salty cheese balance rich meats beautifully. For a complete meal, add a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the potatoes. During summer months, I love serving these alongside grilled vegetables for a colorful plate that pleases everyone at the table.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your potatoes aren't crisping properly, there are several potential culprits. First, ensure they're completely dry before cooking. Excess moisture creates steam which prevents browning. Second, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Working in batches produces better results than cramming too many potatoes at once. Finally, check that your air fryer is properly preheated before adding the potatoes. Cold starts lead to soggy results. Remember that different air fryer models vary in power, so you might need to adjust cooking times accordingly.

Make Ahead Options

While these potatoes are best served immediately after cooking, you can prepare them partially in advance. Wash, dry, and cut the potatoes up to 24 hours ahead, storing them submerged in cold water in the refrigerator to prevent browning. Just remember to drain and thoroughly dry them before cooking. The seasoning mixture can also be prepared ahead of time. For leftovers, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, which will make them soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking to the air fryer basket?

Make sure to spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil before adding the potatoes. This prevents sticking and ensures even browning.

→ Can I use another type of potato?

Yes, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes instead of baby potatoes. Just chop them into smaller, even pieces for consistent cooking.

→ Can I make these potatoes ahead of time?

These potatoes are best served fresh for maximum crispiness. If needed, you can reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore texture.

→ What can I serve with these potatoes?

These garlic parmesan potatoes pair wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even alongside a fresh salad.

→ Can I add other spices or herbs?

Definitely! Feel free to customize the spices, such as adding paprika, rosemary, or thyme for extra flavor.