30-Minute Crispy Air Fryer Small Potatoes

Prep: 5 minCook: 15 min6 servingsmediumAmerican
Crispy Air Fryer Small Potatoes with Garlic and Herbs

These perfectly crispy baby potatoes are seasoned with garlic powder, paprika, and herbs, then air fried to golden perfection. The high heat creates a beautifully crunchy exterior while keeping the inside fluffy and tender. Ready in just 18 minutes, they make an excellent side dish for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. The simple seasoning blend enhances the natural potato flavor without overwhelming it, and the single-layer cooking ensures even browning on all sides.

VeganVegetarianGluten-FreeDairy-FreeNut-Free

Ingredients

6 servings
  • 1 ½ lb small new baby potatoes
  • 2 tbsp grapeseed oil
    olive oil1:1

    Works well but may have slightly different flavor

    Full guide →
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp paprika or smoked paprika
    cayenne pepper1:4spicy

    Use much less for heat, start with pinch

    Full guide →
  • ½ tsp dried dill or oregano

Instructions

  1. 1

    Wash potatoes thoroughly to remove all dirt and debris

  2. 2

    Dry completely with paper towel

  3. 3

    Cut in half if potatoes are too large

  4. 4

    Place in bowl and drizzle with oil

  5. 5

    Add all seasonings and toss to coat evenly

  6. 6

    Preheat air fryer for 3 minutes at 400°F

  7. 7

    Arrange seasoned potatoes in single layer in air fryer basket

  8. 8

    Cook for 15 minutes, tossing every 5 minutes until crispy and fully cooked

  9. 9

    Cook additional 2-3 minutes if needed for extra crispiness

  10. 10

    Serve warm

Tips

Tip 1

Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket - cook in batches if needed to maintain single layer for even crisping

Tip 2

Pat potatoes completely dry after washing to prevent steaming and ensure maximum crispiness

Tip 3

Toss potatoes every 5 minutes during cooking to promote even browning on all surfaces

Good to Know

Storage

Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days in sealed container

Make Ahead

Can prep and season potatoes up to 2 hours ahead, store covered in refrigerator

Serve With

Best served immediately while hot and crispy

See pairing guide →

Common Mistakes

Watch

Don't skip drying step to avoid soggy potatoes

Watch

Don't overcrowd basket to prevent uneven cooking

Substitutions

grapeseed oil→
olive oil1:1

Works well but may have slightly different flavor

Full guide →
small potatoes→
fingerling potatoes1:1

Similar cooking time and results

dried herbs→
fresh herbs1:3

Use 3 times more fresh, add after cooking

Full guide →
paprika→
cayenne pepper1:4spicy

Use much less for heat, start with pinch

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I use regular russet potatoes instead?

Yes, but cut into 1-inch pieces for similar cooking time. New potatoes hold their shape better and have thinner skins that crisp nicely.

What if my potatoes aren't getting crispy enough?

Increase cooking time by 2-3 minutes and make sure potatoes are completely dry before seasoning. Single layer is crucial for crispiness.

How long do leftovers keep?

Store in refrigerator up to 3 days. Reheat in air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness.