If you’re looking for a snack or side dish that delivers a perfect balance of crispy edges and tender insides, then you have to try this Irresistible Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes Recipe. These little gems are so flavorful, thanks to the blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and fresh parsley that make each bite an adventure. Cooking them in the air fryer not only ensures a beautiful crunch but also keeps the process quick and fuss-free. Trust me, once you taste these potatoes, they’ll quickly become a kitchen staple you’ll rave about to everyone you know.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple ingredients is the secret to this recipe’s success. Each one plays an important role, whether to enhance flavor, add texture, or create that golden color that makes these potatoes so appetizing.
- 14 ounces fingerling potatoes: Small and naturally creamy, perfect for air frying and absorbing seasonings.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps crisp up the skin while adding a fruity richness.
- 1 tablespoon melted butter: Adds depth and a hint of indulgence to the potatoes.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the other flavors.
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Provides a gentle heat to keep things interesting.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Brings savory warmth without the sharp bite of fresh garlic.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Infuses a smoky, slightly sweet flavor that makes these potatoes unforgettable.
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley flakes: Adds a fresh, herby finish and a pop of color.
How to Make Irresistible Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
Start by washing and drying your fingerling potatoes thoroughly. Then, slice each one in half lengthwise. This cut size allows for maximum crispiness on the cut side while keeping the inside wonderfully tender after cooking.
Step 2: Mix the Seasoning
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, melted butter, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and dried parsley flakes. Stir everything together until you have a smooth, aromatic seasoning blend that’s ready to coat those potatoes evenly.
Step 3: Coat the Potatoes
Add the halved fingerling potatoes into the bowl and toss well to make sure every piece gets those vibrant flavors clinging to their skin. This step is key—don’t be shy with the toss!
Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit to get the perfect cooking environment ready. Place the potatoes mostly in a single layer in the basket for even cooking. Cook for about 16 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure that crispy golden crust all around.
Step 5: Cool and Enjoy!
Once cooked, carefully remove the potatoes from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. That’s when the magic happens—they’re just warm enough to eat and have a crispy yet tender texture that’s absolutely hard to resist.
How to Serve Irresistible Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a garnish takes your Irresistible Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes Recipe to the next level. Sprinkle freshly chopped chives or a bit of grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra burst of flavor and a pretty finish. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice also brightens the dish wonderfully.
Side Dishes
These potatoes are fantastic alongside grilled chicken, a juicy steak, or even as a cozy partner to a fresh green salad. Their mild smoky flavor and heartiness mean they can elevate any main without stealing the spotlight.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these potatoes on a bed of mixed greens with a drizzle of aioli or spicy mayo on the side. You can also toss them into a bowl with some crumbled feta and a handful of olives to turn this Irresistible Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes Recipe into a Mediterranean-inspired treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover fingerling potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Keeping them cool helps maintain their taste while preventing sogginess.
Freezing
While this recipe is best fresh, you can freeze cooked potatoes by spreading them out on a baking sheet and freezing until solid, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. However, freezing may impact their crisp texture slightly when reheated.
Reheating
To bring back their crispy magic, reheat your potatoes in a preheated air fryer at 380 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 to 5 minutes. This method keeps the outside crunchy and the inside soft, just how you like them.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Fingerling potatoes work best due to their size and texture, but you can substitute with baby red potatoes or small Yukon golds. Just adjust the cooking time slightly since sizes and moisture content vary.
What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
If smoked paprika isn’t in your pantry, regular paprika will work just fine, though you’ll miss that subtle smoky note. Alternatively, a pinch of chipotle powder can add a nice smoky heat.
Is it necessary to use both olive oil and butter?
The combination of olive oil and butter creates a perfect balance of flavor and crispiness. Olive oil helps to crisp up the skin while butter adds a rich, comforting taste. You can use only one, but the flavor won’t be quite the same.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Simply replace the melted butter with additional olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. The potatoes will still turn out delicious and crispy.
How do I know when the potatoes are done?
Look for golden brown, crispy edges and a tender center when pierced with a fork. The 16-minute cooking time at 380 degrees Fahrenheit is a great guideline, but ovens and air fryers vary, so keep an eye during the last few minutes.
Final Thoughts
This Irresistible Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that’s incredibly easy to make and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re whipping up a quick snack or rounding out a meal, these potatoes shine every time. I can’t wait for you to try them and discover just how simple it is to elevate fingerling potatoes into a crunchy, savory delight!
Print
Irresistible Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Total Time: 26 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2 to 3
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy and flavorful, these Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes are a perfect side dish or snack. Seasoned with a blend of garlic, smoked paprika, and herbs, they come out golden and tender every time thanks to the quick air frying method.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 14 ounces fingerling potatoes, washed and dried
Seasoning and Oil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley flakes
Instructions
- Prepare potatoes: Cut the fingerling potatoes in half lengthwise and set them aside for seasoning.
- Mix seasoning: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, melted butter, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and dried parsley flakes. Stir well to create a uniform seasoning blend.
- Coat potatoes: Add the halved fingerling potatoes to the bowl and toss thoroughly until each piece is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Preheat air fryer: Set your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and allow it to preheat completely to ensure even cooking.
- Air fry potatoes: Arrange the coated potatoes in the air fryer basket mostly in a single layer. Cook for 16 minutes until the exteriors are crispy and the insides soft, flipping the potatoes halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crispness.
- Serve: Remove the cooked potatoes from the air fryer, let them cool slightly, then serve immediately while warm and crispy.
Notes
- Store leftover fingerling potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
- Reheat leftovers in a preheated air fryer at 380°F for 3 to 5 minutes to regain crispiness and warmth.
