Air Fryer Baby Potatoes {EXTRA Crispy}

My air fryer baby potatoes are tossed in an Italian seasoning blend, then air fried until they’re golden and CRISPY on the outside yet buttery tender on the inside. It’s a fast and foolproof side!

Need more air fryer sides? Try my air fryer Brussels sprouts, air fryer zucchini, or air fryer carrots next!

I have loads of options for easy mains when I’m feeling especially tired mid-week, but when I need a low-effort side dish to pair, you better believe I’m air frying potatoes. 

Not only is using the air fryer quick and virtually mess-free, but the results are (dare I say it) superior to roasting potatoes. They’re one of my family’s favorite side dishes, and sometimes I even make them just for a snack (with sour cream and sweet chili sauce, yes please!).

Why I love this recipe

• They’re crinkly, crispy, and golden brown. That’s the magic of the air fryer. 
• Healthier. One serving of potatoes is full of complex carbohydrates, and a tiny bit of olive oil gives us our healthy fats. 
• Pairs with anything. Whether I’m making a roast, burgers, or scrambled eggs, I can always count on this side. 
• Customizable. Change the seasoning blend, use a trio of baby potatoes, or serve them with dipping sauce. Keep reading for more ideas!

Ingredients needed

• Baby potatoes. I used a tri-color blend of Yukon golds and red potatoes for added color, but you can use just one or the other. I find Yukons are more buttery in flavor and yield a creamier texture. 
• Olive oil. A must for getting that crispy skin and golden color. Alternatively, use melted butter.  
• Italian seasoning. For flavor. 
• Salt and black pepper. To taste. 

How to make air fryer baby potatoes

I’ve included step-by-step photos below to make this recipe easy to follow at home. For the full printable recipe instructions and ingredient quantities, scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Step 1- Prep. Preheat the air fryer and toss the potatoes in a large mixing bowl with the remaining ingredients. 

Step 2- Air fry. Lay the potatoes in an even layer in the air fryer basket and air fry until crisp. Shake the basket midway through. 

Step 3- Repeat and serve. Continue air frying in batches until all of the potatoes are cooked, then serve as desired. 

Arman’s recipe tips

• Leave the tiny baby potatoes whole so they cook evenly with the halved potatoes. 
• Check them often. Depending on the model and size of your air fryer, your cooking time may vary from mine. Just to be safe, check them at the 12-minute mark, then every 3-4 minutes until they’re done.

• Change the seasoning blend. Add garlic powder or onion powder, or toss them in a pre-made Cajun seasoning blend. 
• Serve with dipping sauce, like hot honey sauce, spicy mayo, or ranch dressing. 
• Garnish the potatoes with fresh herbs (like parsley or rosemary) and a squeeze of lemon juice. 

Storage instructions

To store: Let the potatoes cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 4-5 days. 

To freeze: Place the potatoes in a freezer-ready container and freeze for 3 months. 

Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the microwave, air fryer, or preheated oven until warm. 

Frequently asked questions

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