Perfectly Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes Recipe
Introduction
These perfectly crispy air fryer potatoes are golden, tender on the inside, and bursting with garlic and thyme flavor. Using a quick microwave step ensures they cook evenly before crisping up beautifully in the air fryer. They make a delicious side dish or snack any day of the week.
Ingredients
- 6 medium Yukon Gold potatoes (peeled and quartered)
- 5 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt (or more to taste)
- 5 sprigs thyme
- 8 cloves garlic (unpeeled)
Instructions
- Step 1: Peel the potatoes and cut each into eight pieces for even cooking.
- Step 2: Place the potatoes in a microwave-safe dish with a lid and microwave on high for 9-10 minutes. Check at 9 minutes by piercing with a knife; add more time if needed until tender.
- Step 3: In the same dish, add the olive oil, kosher salt, garlic cloves, and thyme sprigs. Close the lid and shake gently to coat the potatoes evenly and loosen them up.
- Step 4: Transfer everything to your air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F for 20 minutes, then increase the temperature to 400°F and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes. Shake the basket between temperature changes to ensure even crisping.
- Step 5: When done, transfer the potatoes to a serving dish. Peel the roasted garlic cloves and serve alongside the potatoes, optionally with your favorite dip like garlic aioli.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crispiness, pat the potatoes dry before microwaving to remove excess moisture.
- Try tossing the potatoes with smoked paprika or rosemary instead of thyme for a different flavor twist.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, roast the potatoes in a preheated oven at 425°F for 25-30 minutes, turning once halfway through.
Storage
Store leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use red potatoes or russets, but Yukon Golds are preferred for their creamy texture and ability to crisp nicely.
Do I need to peel the garlic before cooking?
No, leave the garlic cloves unpeeled while cooking; they roast inside the skin and become soft and sweet, perfect for squeezing out onto the potatoes.
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Perfectly Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These perfectly crispy air fryer potatoes feature tender Yukon Gold chunks that are par-cooked in the microwave and then air fried to golden perfection with fragrant thyme and garlic. This easy recipe yields a crunchy exterior with a fluffy interior, making it an ideal side dish or snack served alongside your favorite dip like garlic aioli.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Seasoning
- 6 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt (or more to taste)
- 5 tablespoons olive oil
Herbs and Aromatics
- 5 sprigs thyme
- 8 cloves garlic (unpeeled)
Instructions
- Prepare the potatoes: Peel the Yukon Gold potatoes and cut each into eighths to ensure even cooking and optimal crispiness.
- Par-cook in the microwave: Place the potato pieces in a microwave-safe dish with a lid. Microwave on high for 9 to 10 minutes, checking at 9 minutes by piercing with a knife to confirm tenderness. Add more time if needed until the potatoes are easily pierced.
- Season and shake: Still in the microwave-safe container, add the olive oil, kosher salt, unpeeled garlic cloves, and thyme sprigs. Close the lid and shake well to coat the potatoes evenly and loosen them up for crisping.
- Air fry at medium heat: Transfer the seasoned potatoes, garlic, and thyme into your air fryer. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. This step starts the crisping process while allowing flavors to meld.
- Increase heat for crispiness: Raise the air fryer temperature to 400°F (204°C) and continue cooking for an additional 10 to 12 minutes. Shake the basket midway to ensure even browning and crisp texture on all sides.
- Serve and enjoy: Once crisp and golden, remove the potatoes from the air fryer. Peel the roasted garlic from its skins and serve alongside the potatoes. These crispy potatoes pair wonderfully with garlic aioli or your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Microwaving the potatoes before air frying ensures a tender inside and reduces overall cooking time.
- Shaking the potatoes during seasoning and cooking helps achieve an evenly crispy texture.
- You can substitute fresh thyme with rosemary or oregano for a different herbaceous note.
- For a spicier kick, sprinkle paprika or chili powder before air frying.
- Peeling the garlic after roasting softens and sweetens its flavor, perfect for mixing with dips.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: air fryer potatoes, crispy potatoes, Yukon Gold potatoes, easy side dish, garlic thyme potatoes, air fried potatoes
