There’s something incredibly satisfying about perfectly crispy potatoes—golden on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor. As someone who loves cooking but doesn’t always have time to babysit food in the oven, I’ve found that the air fryer is a game-changer for making crispy potato cubes with minimal effort. No flipping trays, no excessive oil, just quick, delicious results every time.
This recipe is my go-to side dish for busy weeknights or even weekend brunches. The seasoning is simple but versatile, meaning you can tweak it to match any meal. Whether you’re serving them alongside eggs, pairing them with a juicy steak, or just snacking straight from the basket, these air fryer potato cubes never disappoint. Let’s get cooking!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Potatoes: The star of the dish! I prefer using Yukon Gold or russet potatoes because they crisp up beautifully while staying fluffy inside. Yukon Golds have a buttery texture, while russets are starchier, giving extra crunch.
Olive oil: A light coating helps the potatoes crisp up in the air fryer without making them greasy. You could also use avocado oil for a higher smoke point.
Garlic powder: Adds a savory depth without the risk of burning like fresh garlic would. If you love garlic, you can also add a sprinkle at the end.
Paprika: Smoked paprika gives a subtle smoky flavor, while sweet paprika keeps things mild. This is where you can get creative—try adding cayenne for heat!
Salt & black pepper: Essential for enhancing all the flavors. I like using kosher salt for even seasoning.
Ingredients List
- 2 medium Yukon Gold or russet potatoes (about 1 lb), cut into ½-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Potato Cubes
Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
Wash and dry the potatoes thoroughly—excess moisture can prevent crisping. Cut them into even ½-inch cubes so they cook uniformly. Leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients, but you can peel them if preferred.
Step 2: Season the Cubes
In a bowl, toss the potato cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Make sure every piece is lightly coated for maximum flavor and crispiness.
Step 3: Air Fry to Perfection
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes. Spread the potatoes in a single layer in the basket—crowding will steam them instead of crisping. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Step 4: Serve Immediately
For the best texture, enjoy these right out of the air fryer! They’re fantastic with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or a side of creamy dipping sauce.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Dry the potatoes well—pat them with a towel after washing to remove excess moisture.
- Don’t skip preheating—this helps jumpstart the crisping process.
- Shake the basket—this ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
- Adjust seasonings—try adding onion powder, rosemary, or grated Parmesan for extra flavor.
- Check for doneness—if your cubes aren’t crispy enough, add 2-3 more minutes.
FAQs
Can I use sweet potatoes instead?
Yes! Sweet potatoes work well but may cook faster—check at the 10-minute mark.
Do I need to soak the potatoes first?
Soaking can remove excess starch for extra crispiness, but it’s not necessary if you’re short on time.
Why are my potatoes not crispy?
Overcrowding the basket or not using enough oil can lead to steaming instead of crisping.
Can I make these ahead of time?
They’re best fresh, but you can reheat them in the air fryer for 3-4 minutes to regain crispiness.
What dipping sauces go well with these?
Try garlic aioli, spicy ketchup, or a cool ranch dip!
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful potato cubes—they’re sure to become a regular in your meal rotation!