Recipe

Crispy Air Fryer Roasted Potatoes

Golden, crunchy-edged potatoes with fluffy centers, with a realistic total time of about 40 to 45 minutes depending on how fast your water boils. A weeknight side that tastes like you tried harder than you did.

By Matt Campbell

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4.9

A close-up photograph of crispy golden air fryer roasted potato chunks in a bowl with flecks of herbs and a small dish of garlic aioli on the side

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If you have ever stood in front of your oven waiting for potatoes to roast while your hunger escalates into a personality trait, this one is for you. These crispy air fryer roasted potatoes deliver the holy trinity: crisp edges, cozy insides, and the kind of savory seasoning that makes you “taste one for quality control” five times in a row.

The method is simple and forgiving. We par-cook (fast-ish, depending on how quickly your water boils), rough them up (on purpose), then air fry until the outside goes shatter-crisp. Bonus: you can keep the seasoning basic, or take a sharp left into spicy, herby, cheesy, or lemony territory depending on your mood and what is lurking in your fridge.

A real photograph of raw potato chunks in a mixing bowl being tossed with oil and seasonings using a spoon

Why It Works

Parboil first for that fluffy interior, then the air fryer handles the crunch without a lake of oil.
Roughing up the potatoes creates starchy, craggy edges that turn into the best crispy bits.
High heat and space equals browning. A little breathing room in the basket is basically free flavor.
Seasoning timing matters: salt and spices before, delicate herbs and cheese after, so everything tastes bold, not burnt.

Storage Tips

In the rare event you have leftovers (respect), here is how to keep them good:

Refrigerate

Cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Reheat for crispiness

Air fryer: 375°F for 4 to 7 minutes, shaking halfway, until hot and crisp again.
Oven: 425°F on a sheet pan for 8 to 12 minutes.
Microwave: technically yes, emotionally no. Microwaving will soften the crust. If you must, microwave to heat, then crisp in a hot pan or air fryer.

Freeze (optional)

Freeze in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the air fryer at 375°F for 10 to 14 minutes, shaking a couple times. Note: the texture can change slightly after freezing, but they will still be very snackable.

A real photograph of leftover roasted potatoes in a glass container with a lid on a kitchen counter

Common Questions

Do I have to boil the potatoes first?

You do not have to, but it is the difference between “pretty good” and “why are these so perfect?” Parboiling jump-starts tenderness, and the roughed-up surface crisps faster in the air fryer. For best results, drain well and let them steam-dry so they do not go into the basket wet.

What potatoes are best for air fryer roasted potatoes?

Yukon Gold gives you creamy centers and great browning. Russets get extra crisp and fluffy, but can break up more easily. Baby potatoes also work, just cut them into 1-inch pieces so they cook evenly.

Why aren’t my potatoes crispy?

Overcrowding: Air needs to circulate. Cook in batches if you have to, and aim for a mostly single layer.
Too wet: Drain well after boiling and let them steam-dry for a minute or two.
Not enough oil: You do not need much, but you need some to encourage browning.
Temperature too low: Aim for 400°F for the main crisping phase.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes. Add dried herbs (like rosemary or thyme) before air frying so they bloom in the oil. Add fresh herbs after cooking so they stay bright.

Do I need parchment paper or liners?

No. Liners can block airflow and reduce crispiness. If cleanup is your love language, use a light spray and wash the basket while it is still warm.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, but a small honesty note: the texture can shift a bit after freezing and reheating. Still tasty, just sometimes slightly more mealy than fresh.

Matt Campbell

I have always had a huge passion for the culinary arts, people, working as a team, and so on. I wanted to pursue my love for cooking initially at Virginia Commonwealth University with a culinary arts degree; however, I instead decided to apply myself and acquire more practical skills. My end goal is to eventually open my own restaurant or similar establishment.

Kitchen Essentials

Air fryer (basket style or oven style)
Medium pot for parboiling
Colander
Large mixing bowl
Knife and cutting board
Tongs or a spatula for turning and serving

I started making these on nights when I wanted “roasted potato energy” without committing to a full oven preheat and a 45-minute wait. The air fryer felt like cheating, until I realized it was not cheating, it was just efficiency with a crispy badge. Now I toss them with whatever seasoning I am feeling: smoked paprika when I want cozy, lemon zest when I want bright, or parmesan when I want everyone to think I planned dinner on purpose.