Smashed potatoes in the air fryer are a popular dish that combines the crispy texture of oven-baked potatoes with the creamy consistency of mashed potatoes. By preparing them in an air fryer, you can achieve an even crispier and more delicious surface, while saving time and energy. In this recipe we explore: why you should try making this potato dish, its origins, different variations, what you can serve them with, and finally a conclusion on why this method is so fantastic.
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Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
Table of Contents:
Why Make Smashed Potatoes in the Air Fryer?
When it comes to this potato dish, the air fryer offers several advantages:
- Crispiness:It can produce an incredibly crispy crust on the potatoes, something traditional oven-baking can struggle to achieve without using significant amounts of oil.
- Time efficiency:It heats up quickly and cooks food faster than a conventional oven, making it ideal for busy weekdays.
- Health:By using less oil, you can reduce the fat content of your meals, making smashed potatoes in the air fryer a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried potatoes.
- Convenient:The air fryer is easy to use and requires minimal cleaning compared to other cooking methods.
These advantages make the air fryer an ideal choice for anyone who wants to make smashed potatoes quickly and efficiently.
I recommend this classic pilsner with our crispy smashed potatoes
Here are Morten’s tips for the crispy smashed potatoes. I can warmly recommend Pilsner – Can 44cl – enjoy the meal.
Where do smashed potatoes come from?
Smashed potatoes don’t have a specific geographical origin, but the concept of crushing boiled potatoes and baking them crispy has become popular in various forms around the world. In the USA and the UK, they are a common side dish, often served with a selection of spices and toppings.
Historically, this vegetable can be traced back to the Andes in South America, where they were grown by the Incas. They were introduced to Europe in the 16th century and quickly spread as a staple food. The idea of crushing and baking them may have emerged as a way to reinvent leftover boiled potatoes, making the dish both economical and practical.
What variations can you make of this dish?
One of the best things about smashed potatoes is their versatility. Here are some variations you can try:
- Herbs and cheese:Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme or parsley and sprinkle with parmesan or cheddar for extra flavour.
- Garlic and butter:Brush the potatoes with a mixture of melted butter and garlic for a rich and aromatic flavour.
- Spicy:Sprinkle your potato dish with chilli powder, paprika or cayenne pepper to give it a spicy twist.
- Exotic:Use spices like curry, cumin or turmeric to give the potatoes an exotic flavour.
- Bacon and onion:Add crispy fried bacon and caramelised onions for a more robust and hearty version.
By experimenting with different spices and toppings, you can create your very own favourite version of these oven-baked potatoes.
Try a garlic butter infusion. Melt butter with garlic and herbs: Melt 4 tbsp butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add 2-3 finely chopped garlic cloves and a handful of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. Let the butter simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavours to infuse. When the potatoes are crushed and ready for the second round in the air fryer, brush them thoroughly with the flavourful garlic butter. This will give the potatoes a deep and rich flavour.
Tips and tricks from the author: Morten Jensen
What do you serve with smashed potatoes?
Smashed potatoes are incredibly versatile and can be served with a range of different dishes. Here are some ideas for what to serve them with:
- Meat dishes:Smashed potatoes are a perfect side for roast chicken, steaks, lamb or pork.
- Vegetables:Serve them together with grilled or steamed vegetables for a healthy and balanced meal.
- Dips and sauces:Try serving the potatoes with different dips like aioli, ranch dressing, or a delicious cheese sauce.
- Salads:A fresh salad with a tangy dressing can complement the crispy potatoes and give the meal a lighter touch.
- Fish:Smashed potatoes can also be a fantastic side dish for fish dishes like salmon, cod or shrimp.
By combining them with different main courses and sides, you can create varied and exciting meals.
Conclusion on Smashed Potatoes in the Air Fryer
Smashed potatoes in the air fryer are a fantastic way to prepare this delicious dish. The air fryer ensures a crispy and delicious surface, while the potatoes stay soft and creamy inside. This method is both time-saving and healthier than traditional oven-baked potatoes.
The dish originates from a simple idea of reusing boiled potatoes, and it has become popular because of its versatility and easy preparation. By adding different spices and toppings, you can adapt them to your own taste and preference.
Smashed potatoes in the air fryer can be served with a wide selection of main courses and sides, making them a versatile and popular side dish. Whether you serve them with meat, vegetables, fish or salads, they will undoubtedly be a hit at the dinner table.
In conclusion, smashed potatoes in the air fryer are not only a quick and easy way to prepare potatoes, but also a method that ensures a delicious and crispy result every time. So the next time you fancy a tasty and crispy potato dish, you should definitely consider using your air fryer.
Recipe
Smashed Potatoes in the Air Fryer
Cooking Guide
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Cost of the dish
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Our estimate is based on average food prices for the current year 2026.
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Airfryer size
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Shopping list
Ingredients
- 800 gram small potatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp coarse salt
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 bunch Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
How to make it
Preparation:
- Wash and dry 800 gram small potatoes thoroughly. Cut away any spots or bad bits.
First round in the air fryer:
- Preheat the air fryer to 180°C.(Preprogram, or let it run for a couple of minutes before cooking)
- Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook the potatoes for 15-20 minutes, until they are tender and can easily be mashed with a spoon or potato masher.Start the online timer here
Crushing the potatoes:
- Take the potatoes out of the air fryer and place them on a cutting board or baking paper.
- Use a spoon or potato masher to gently mash the potatoes, until they are flat but still hold together.
Second round in the air fryer:
- Increase the air fryer temperature to 200°C.
- Place the smashed potatoes back in the air fryer.
- Brush the potatoes with 2 tbsp olive oil and sprinkle with 1 tsp coarse salt, 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper, 1 tsp garlic powder and optionally 1 bunch Fresh rosemary or thyme
- Cook the potatoes for a further 10-15 minutes, until they are crispy and golden.Start the online timer here
Serving:
- Take the smashed potatoes out of the air fryer and serve them immediately as a delicious and crispy side to the main course.
Our notes for the recipe
Your notes for the recipe
Nutrition per serving (Guideline)
Important about shelf life and nutrition
Nutrition per serving (guideline): Calculations are based on data from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Shelf life (guideline): Shelf life data is provided, as far as possible, by public institutions, including national food authorities. Our information is therefore only indicative, and it is your responsibility to obtain and calculate accurate information about shelf life and nutrition for all recipes on airfryerkogebogen.dk
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