How to Air Fry Baby Potatoes

Wash and dry baby potatoes. Halving them creates more surface area for crisping and reduces cooking time by about 5 minutes. If leaving whole, pierce each one 2–3 times with a fork to allow steam to escape and prevent bursting. Toss with 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, garlic powder, and dried rosemary or Italian seasoning.

Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Halved baby potatoes: 15–18 minutes, shaking every 5 minutes, cut-side down for the last few minutes for maximum crisping. Whole baby potatoes: 18–22 minutes with shaking every 5–6 minutes. They are done when a fork slides in easily and the exterior is golden.

For extra fluffy interiors, parboil the potatoes in salted water for 8 minutes before air frying. Drain, let steam dry for 2 minutes, then toss with oil and seasonings. Air fry for only 10–12 minutes at 400°F. This method produces the fluffiest interior with the crispiest skin.

Herbed: rosemary, thyme, and garlic. Parmesan: toss with grated parmesan in the last 3 minutes of cooking. Ranch-style: season with dried ranch seasoning mix before cooking. Everything bagel: coat with everything bagel seasoning. All benefit from a sprinkle of flaky salt right after cooking.

Serve hot with sour cream, ranch, or garlic aioli for dipping. Baby potatoes pair with virtually any protein — steak, chicken, fish, or eggs. Leftovers reheat excellently at 380°F for 5–6 minutes.

What temperature for air fryer baby potatoes?

Air fry baby potatoes at 400°F (205°C). High heat creates the crispy, golden skin and fluffy interior that makes air fryer potatoes so appealing. This temperature works for whole and halved baby potatoes alike.

How long to cook baby potatoes in air fryer?

Baby potatoes take 15–20 minutes at 400°F (205°C). Whole potatoes need the full 18–20 minutes; halved potatoes (cut side down first) are done in 15–18 minutes. Shake or flip at the 10-minute mark. Done when a fork pierces through easily and the skin is crispy.

Tips for crispy air fryer baby potatoes?

Halving baby potatoes exposes more surface area to the hot air, resulting in crispier skin. Toss thoroughly with oil, salt, and your choice of herbs before cooking. Shake at 10 minutes for even crisping. Do not overcrowd — potatoes need space for the air to circulate.