Air Fryer Crispy Smashed Garlic Potatoes

These crispy smashed potatoes are fluffy on the inside, golden and crunchy on the outside, and packed with garlic and herb flavor. They’re an easy side dish that pairs well with almost any meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

1½ lbs (700 g) baby potatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Place the potatoes in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for 15–20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain well and let them steam dry for 5 minutes.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
Arrange the potatoes on a cutting board or baking tray. Using the bottom of a glass or a potato masher, gently press each potato until it’s about ½ inch thick.
In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Brush or spoon the garlic mixture over both sides of each smashed potato.
Place the potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed.
Air fry for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until deeply golden and crispy.
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese during the last 2 minutes of cooking, if using.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

Approximate values (without Parmesan):

Calories: 180
Protein: 4 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fat: 6 g
Fiber: 4 g

Optional Toppings

Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Crispy bacon bits
Chopped chives or green onions
Shredded cheddar cheese
Red pepper flakes for a little heat

Tips for the Crispiest Potatoes

Let the boiled potatoes dry for a few minutes before smashing.
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket.
Turn the potatoes halfway through cooking for even browning.
Serve immediately while they’re hot and crisp.