I remember when I was a little girl, my grandmother would make the most delightful pan-fried potatoes, always perfectly crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. Every Sunday morning, as the sun started peeking through the windows, the aroma of potatoes sizzling in her cast iron skillet would fill the house, beckoning me to the kitchen before breakfast. She didn’t have an air fryer back then, of course, but the flavor was unbeatable—thanks to her simple yet genius seasoning mix.
Fast forward to today, and although I’ve traded that cast iron skillet for an air fryer, I still find myself craving those crispy potatoes, especially on lazy weekend mornings. Over the years, I’ve adapted my own version of her beloved recipe, adding a few tweaks here and there while making it a bit healthier. This air fryer version is quicker and uses much less oil, but it still delivers that satisfying crunch I loved as a child. In fact, these crispy diced potatoes have become a staple in my home, whether I’m serving them up as a savory side dish for breakfast or a crispy addition to dinner. My kids always come running into the kitchen when they smell these cooking, just like I used to, and it brings back that familiar warmth from my childhood.
One trick I’ve learned is soaking the potatoes in cold water before air frying. It helps remove excess starch, ensuring the potatoes get that perfectly crispy texture without being greasy. And when paired with a blend of garlic, onion, oregano, and smoked paprika, you’ll end up with a flavor that’s simply irresistible.
So, whether you’re in a rush on a busy weekday morning or leisurely enjoying a weekend brunch, these crispy air fryer diced potatoes are sure to become a family favorite. Just like they’ve been in mine.
Making Crispy Air Fryer Diced Potatoes
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Ingredients
- 3 large potatoes (around 500 g)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
Directions
- Peel the potatoes and dice them into small, even cubes.
- Place the diced potatoes in a bowl of cold water and allow them to soak for at least 10 minutes. Drain and pat them dry with a clean towel.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried potatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano. Toss everything together until the potatoes are fully coated with the seasonings.
- Place the potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on your air fryer size, you might need to cook them in two batches.
- Air fry for 20-25 minutes at 400°F, shaking the basket every 5-7 minutes to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Once golden brown and crispy, remove the potatoes from the air fryer and serve immediately. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley.
Storing Suggestion
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back into the air fryer for a few minutes until they regain their crispiness.
Cooking Tips
For an extra crispy texture, make sure the potatoes are completely dry before seasoning. You can also experiment with different seasonings like cumin or chili powder to change up the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These air fryer diced potatoes are great served with ketchup, aioli, or as a side dish with grilled meats. They can also be used as a base for a breakfast hash.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika can be used. You can also swap oregano for thyme or rosemary for a different herb flavor profile.
Seasonal Variations
During the fall, consider using sweet potatoes for a sweeter variation of this recipe. In the spring, add fresh herbs like dill or chives for a lighter, fresher taste.
Allergen Information
This recipe is free from common allergens like gluten and dairy. If you’re using vegetable oil, check that it is free from any allergens that might affect you.
FAQ:
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for this recipe. Just ensure they are cut into small cubes for even cooking.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Peeling is optional. If you prefer the texture of potato skins, you can leave them on for added crispiness and nutrients.
Why do I need to soak the potatoes?
Soaking the potatoes in cold water helps remove excess starch, which makes them crispier when cooked.
Can I use the oven instead of an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake these in the oven at 425°F for 25-30 minutes. Make sure to flip them halfway through for even browning.
How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking to the air fryer?
Ensure the air fryer basket is well-coated with non-stick spray, and toss the potatoes in oil to prevent sticking.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the potatoes in advance and store them in water in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Crispy Air Fryer Diced Potatoes
Ingredients
- 3 large potatoes approximately 500 g
- 1 teaspoon dried garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried onion powder
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
Instructions
- Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into small cubes.
- Place the diced potatoes in a large bowl filled with cold water. Let them soak for a minimum of 10 minutes, then drain and dry thoroughly using a kitchen towel or clean cloth.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
- Transfer the dried potatoes to a separate bowl. Add the olive oil, smoked paprika, kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano. Mix everything well by hand, ensuring the potatoes are evenly coated.
- Place the seasoned potato cubes into the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to cook them in two separate batches.
- Cook at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket a few times during cooking to ensure the potatoes crisp up evenly.
- Once the potatoes are golden and crispy, they are ready to serve. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired.
