When I first tried baking potatoes in the air fryer, I was hooked instantly. The crispiness on the outside paired with the fluffy, soft interior was a game changer. Adding garlic and Parmesan to the mix elevated this simple side dish into something absolutely irresistible. Every bite has that perfect crunch with a savory, cheesy punch that keeps me reaching for more.
Cooking in the air fryer has completely changed the way I approach weeknight dinners. Not only does it cut down on cooking time, but it also keeps my kitchen cooler and cleaner. These garlic Parmesan potatoes are now a staple in my house, whether it’s for a quick snack, a side for dinner, or even a party appetizer. Trust me, once you make them this way, there’s no going back.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Potatoes: I like using small to medium-sized Yukon Gold or red potatoes for this recipe. They hold their shape well in the air fryer, crisp up beautifully, and have a creamy interior that contrasts perfectly with the crunchy exterior.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves give this dish a bold, aromatic flavor. Roasted garlic has a sweeter, milder taste, while raw garlic adds a sharper kick. For this recipe, finely minced garlic ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan melts slightly over the potatoes in the air fryer, forming a savory, golden crust. Its nutty, salty flavor enhances the natural sweetness of the potatoes and pairs perfectly with garlic.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil helps the potatoes crisp up in the air fryer while coating the garlic and Parmesan evenly. It also adds a subtle richness that brings all the flavors together.
Salt and Pepper: Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper season the potatoes, enhancing their natural flavor. Don’t skimp here—these simple seasonings are essential for a well-rounded taste.
Optional Herbs: Fresh or dried rosemary, thyme, or parsley can add an extra layer of aroma and freshness. I often toss in a little rosemary to elevate the dish without overpowering the garlic-Parmesan combo.
Ingredients List
- 1.5 pounds small to medium Yukon Gold or red potatoes, cut into wedges
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh or dried rosemary or parsley (optional)
How to Make Air Fryer Baked Garlic Parmesan Potatoes
Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and cut your potatoes into evenly sized wedges. Keeping them uniform ensures they cook evenly and develop a perfect golden-brown crust in the air fryer.
Season the Potatoes
In a large bowl, toss the potato wedges with olive oil, garlic, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and optional herbs. Make sure every wedge is coated evenly to maximize flavor and crispiness.
Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat for about 5 minutes. Preheating helps the potatoes start cooking immediately, ensuring a crunchy exterior.
Cook the Potatoes
Place the seasoned wedges in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 15–20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even browning. The potatoes should be golden, crispy, and tender inside.
Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the cooked potatoes to a serving dish. Sprinkle additional Parmesan or fresh herbs on top if desired. Serve hot and watch them disappear!
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Cut the potatoes into similar sizes for even cooking.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure proper air circulation and crispiness.
- Shake or turn the potatoes halfway through cooking to brown them evenly.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle a little smoked paprika or chili powder along with the Parmesan.
- Use a high-quality Parmesan for the best taste—freshly grated is ideal.
FAQs
Can I use frozen potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and pat them dry first to avoid excess moisture, which can prevent crisping.
Can I make this recipe in the oven?
Absolutely. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway through.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven for best results.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, simply omit the Parmesan or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative.
What other herbs work well with this recipe?
Thyme, oregano, and parsley are great options. Fresh herbs should be added after cooking to maintain flavor.