The Best Easy Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes

Smashed potatoes in the air fryer are my new favorite thing since well, regular crispy air fryer potatoes. These air fryer smashed potatoes are crispy, delicious and full of flavor. And cooking them in the air fryer makes this process super quick and easy! It also helps cut out a lot of extra fat and oil. Making smashed potatoes in the air fryer gives you the perfect crispy golden brown smashed potato so much faster than the traditional way with boiling and baking. This recipe is also Whole30 compliant and gluten-free so it's great for those with some dietary restrictions. It’s a healthy real-food option that the whole family will love!

I LOVE my air fryer.  Personally, it’s the kitchen gadget I use the most often. I use it for veggies like crispy brussel sprouts and buffalo cauliflower as well as for buffalo chicken tenders or fish sticks.  The air fryer is also great for crisping up some baked chicken wings. It’s really such a useful tool. You can even use it to make toast! The air fryer I am currently using is this one from Gourmia.

And if you don’t have an air fryer – fear not! I have also added instructions below on how to get these crispy no-boil smashed potatoes baked in the oven as well!

What are smashed potatoes?

Smashed potatoes are essentially mashed potatoes with the skin on. Instead of the insides of a potato being blended together to create a "mash", you take a small potato and smash it gently downward so it's flattened. Then you can air fry it to a golden crisp and top with garlic, chives, parmesan cheese or whatever toppings you prefer!

Ingredients for Smashed Potatoes

How To Make Smashed Potatoes in the Air Fryer

Step 1: Prep Your Potatoes. In order to get my potatoes ready to “smash”, I place them in a microwave safe bowl and cover with a damp paper towel. I nuke them for about seven minutes until they are tender enough to smash.

Step 2: Smash your Potatoes. I find it is best to smash your potatoes on parchment paper.  I use the bottom of a glass cup or a measuring cup to gently push down. I press until the potato is about three quarters of the way smashed.

Step 3: Once your potatoes are flattened, it’s time to season them. Brush on a little melted ghee to each potato before adding the seasoning. Once the potatoes are seasoned they are ready to be “fried” in the air fryer. 

Step 4: Place the smashed potatoes in the air fryer in a single layer being careful not to overcrowd them. You may need to air fry in two batches depending on how many smashed potatoes you will be making or the size of your air fryer. Air fry at 400 degrees for about 10-12 minutes. I check the potatoes around minute 8 or 9 before continuing

Step 5: Top with dried dill and chives and serve with your favorite dipping sauce for an appetizer or serve as a side for dinner.

Variations and Modifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes

These air fryer smashed potatoes are great as an appetizer or side to any meal. Here are few things that would pair well with them:

• Air Fryer Pork Chops
• The Best Easy Grilled Chicken
• Garlic Green Beans
• Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts
• Honey Glazed Carrots
• Buffalo Chicken meatballs

This recipe for air fryer smashed potatoes can also be a great addition to your Thanksgiving table as an alternative to mashed potatoes!  Or serve both because potatoes are life. I won’t judge!

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