My air fryer baby potatoes are tossed in an Italian seasoning blend, then air fried until they’re golden and CRISPY on the outside yet buttery tender on the inside. It’s a fast and foolproof side!

I have loads of options for easy mains when I’m feeling especially tired mid-week, but when I need a low-effort side dish to pair, you better believe I’m air frying new potatoes. 

Not only is using the air fryer quick and virtually mess-free, but the results are (dare I say it) superior to roasting potatoes. In my recipe, there’s no need to boil the potatoes beforehand or soak them. The trick is to start with bone-dry potatoes, then season them. This way, they naturally crisp up without steaming.

They’re one of my family’s favorite side dishes, and sometimes I even make them just for a snack with sour cream and sweet chili sauce.

Table of Contents

1. Why I love this recipe
2. Ingredients needed
3. How to make air fryer baby potatoes
4. Arman’s recipe tips
5. Storage instructions
6. Frequently asked questions
7. Air Fryer Baby Potatoes (Recipe Card)
8. More air fried potato recipes

Why I love this recipe

• They’re crinkly, crispy, and golden brown. That’s the magic of the air fryer. 
• Healthier. One serving of potatoes is rich in complex carbohydrates, and a tiny bit of olive oil provides healthy fats. 
• Pairs with anything. Whether I’m making a roast, burgers, or scrambled eggs, I can always count on this side. 
• Customizable. Like my air fryer breakfast potatoes, you can change the seasoning blend, use a trio of baby potatoes, or serve them with dipping sauce. Keep reading for more ideas!

Ingredients needed

• Baby potatoes. I used a tri-color blend of Yukon golds and red potatoes for added color, but you can use just one or the other. I find Yukons are more buttery in flavor and yield a creamier texture. 
• Olive oil. A must for getting that crispy skin and golden color. Alternatively, use melted butter. 
• Italian seasoning. For flavor. 
• Salt and black pepper. To taste. 

How to make air fryer baby potatoes

For the full printable recipe instructions and ingredient quantities, scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Step 3- Repeat and serve. Continue air frying in batches until all of the potatoes are cooked, then serve as desired. Garnish the potatoes with fresh herbs (like parsley or rosemary) and a squeeze of lemon juice. 

Arman’s recipe tips

• Leave the tiny baby potatoes whole so they cook evenly with the halved potatoes. 
• Check them often. Depending on the model and size of your air fryer, your cooking time may vary from mine. Just to be safe, check them at the 12-minute mark, then every 3-4 minutes until they’re done.
• Start with dry potatoes. Dry new potatoes ensure they crisp up nicely on the outside while staying fluffy in the middle. Any moisture, and you risk the potatoes steaming instead.
• Change the seasoning blend. Add garlic powder or onion powder, or toss them in a pre-made Cajun seasoning blend. 
• Serve with dipping sauces such as hot honey, spicy mayo, or ranch dressing. 

Storage instructions

To store: Let the potatoes cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 4-5 days. 

To freeze: Place the potatoes in a freezer-ready container and freeze for 3 months. 

Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the air fryer or a preheated oven until warm (350°F). You can microwave them, but they won’t crisp up.

Frequently asked questions