Crispy Cheesy Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
If you love crispy potatoes and melted cheese, this recipe is going to become one of your favorites. These Crispy Cheesy Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes are golden, crunchy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. The outside turns perfectly crispy thanks to the parmesan and melted cheese, while the inside stays soft and fluffy.The garlic butter adds so much flavor, and the air fryer gives the potatoes that amazing crispy texture without needing much oil. They are perfect as a snack, side dish, appetizer, or even a comfort food dinner with your favorite dipping sauce.The best part? They are simple to make with basic ingredients, but they taste like something you would order at a restaurant.
Ingredients
- 6 small to medium potatoes
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons butter melted
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Fresh parsley for serving
- Garlic sauce or ranch dressing for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Wash the potatoes well and place them in a pot with water. Boil until fork tender, about 15-20 minutes depending on their size. Drain and let them cool slightly.
- Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper and add small piles of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Place the boiled potatoes on top of the cheese piles.
- Gently smash each potato using the bottom of a glass or a fork until flattened.
- In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, and olive oil.
- Brush the potatoes with the garlic butter mixture.
- Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Sprinkle parmesan cheese over the top of each potato along with extra mozzarella if desired.
- Air fry at 190°C (375°F) for 12-15 minutes or until the potatoes are crispy and golden brown.
- Serve immediately with garlic sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dip. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Notes
For extra crispy potatoes, let the boiled potatoes cool for 10 minutes before smashing them. Freshly grated parmesan melts and crisps better than pre-shredded parmesan.
Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket or the potatoes may turn soft instead of crispy.
Cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer model and potato size.
These potatoes are best served immediately while the cheese is hot and crispy.
You can use cheddar, gouda, or a cheese blend instead of mozzarella for a richer flavor.
Add chili flakes for a spicy version.
Calories
Estimated calories: 420 kcal per serving
(Estimated for 3 servings and may vary depending on the cheese and sauces used.)
