There’s something about perfectly golden potatoes that makes my heart (and taste buds) so happy. I’ve always been a big fan of roasted potatoes, but ever since I discovered how easy it is to make them in the air fryer, there’s no going back. The crispy outside, the soft and fluffy inside—it’s a texture dream. Add fresh parsley and a good hit of garlic, and you’ve got yourself a side dish that’s bursting with flavor.
I love that this recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet fancy enough to serve when guests are over. It’s a no-fuss, minimal cleanup kind of dish that still feels special. Whether I’m pairing them with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even a veggie-packed salad, these Air Fryer Garlic and Parsley Baby Potatoes never fail to impress. And the best part? They’re ready in less time than it takes to preheat my oven.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Baby potatoes: These little gems are naturally tender and cook evenly in the air fryer. Their thin skin crisps up beautifully, while the inside stays soft and fluffy. Plus, they don’t need peeling—making prep even faster.
Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic brings a rich, aromatic depth to the potatoes. When cooked, it mellows into a sweet, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with parsley. I prefer mincing it finely so it coats the potatoes evenly.
Fresh parsley: Bright, fresh parsley adds a pop of green and a gentle herbal freshness. It balances out the richness of the potatoes and garlic, making every bite taste lighter and fresher.
Olive oil: This helps the potatoes crisp up in the air fryer and carries the flavors of garlic and parsley into every bite. Choose a good-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.
Salt and pepper: Sometimes the simplest seasonings are the most important. Salt enhances the flavor of every ingredient, while black pepper adds a warm, subtle kick that makes the potatoes irresistible.
Ingredients List
- 1 pound baby potatoes, halved if large
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
How to Make Air Fryer Garlic and Parsley Baby Potatoes
Step 1: Prep the potatoes
Rinse the baby potatoes well and pat them dry with a clean towel. If some are larger, cut them in half so they cook evenly.
Step 2: Season generously
In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated. This ensures every bite has that perfect flavor balance.
Step 3: Air fry until golden
Place the seasoned potatoes in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even browning.
Step 4: Add parsley and serve
Once the potatoes are golden and crispy on the outside, transfer them to a serving bowl. Toss with freshly chopped parsley right before serving for maximum freshness.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Cut evenly: Halve any larger potatoes so they cook at the same rate as the smaller ones.
- Don’t overcrowd: Give the potatoes enough space in the basket for proper airflow—this is the secret to that crispy finish.
- Shake halfway: Tossing the potatoes mid-cook ensures even browning on all sides.
- Add parsley last: Adding fresh parsley after cooking keeps its vibrant color and flavor intact.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt right before serving can take these potatoes to the next level.
FAQs
Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh parsley really makes a difference in flavor and color. If using dried, add only 1 teaspoon and mix it in before cooking.
What if I don’t have baby potatoes?
You can use regular potatoes—just cut them into small, even chunks so they cook properly in the air fryer.
Can I make these ahead of time?
They’re best enjoyed fresh, but you can reheat them in the air fryer for 3–4 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Nope! The skin adds extra crispiness and flavor, plus it saves prep time.