I’ll never forget the first time I tasted perfectly roasted potatoes. It was during a summer trip to Italy with my family, and we were staying in a charming little villa nestled in the hills of Tuscany. Every morning, the air was filled with the smell of fresh herbs, garlic, and olive oil as our host prepared meals that showcased the local produce. One evening, after a long day of exploring vineyards and medieval towns, we gathered around the table to a simple but unforgettable dinner. Among the various dishes was a platter of roasted potatoes, perfectly golden and crispy on the outside, soft and flavorful on the inside. They were seasoned with herbs freshly picked from the garden, a hint of garlic, and just the right amount of Parmesan. It was comfort food at its finest—elegant in its simplicity yet bursting with flavor.
Fast forward to today, and I find myself trying to recreate those magical flavors with my own twist using the convenience of an air fryer. The air fryer has quickly become a staple in my kitchen, especially when it comes to dishes like these Air Fryer Parmesan Roasted Potatoes. Not only do they remind me of that memorable meal in Tuscany, but they are also a go-to side dish when I need something quick, easy, and delicious. With just a handful of ingredients and less than 20 minutes, you can have crispy, golden potatoes that taste like they’ve been slow-roasted in a wood-fired oven. The best part? You don’t have to turn on your oven or wait an hour for them to cook!
These potatoes are perfect for a casual family dinner or even as a side for a fancier meal with friends. They pair well with almost anything—grilled meats, roasted veggies, or even tossed into a salad. And the extra Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top gives them a lovely finishing touch that makes them irresistible.
Whether you’re reminiscing about your own travels or just looking for a simple, crowd-pleasing side dish, these Parmesan roasted potatoes are sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy the taste of Tuscany with every crispy, cheesy bite!
Making Air Fryer Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
Ingredients
- 1 pound baby potatoes, cut in half
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated (plus extra for serving)
Directions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
- In a large bowl, toss the halved potatoes with olive oil, making sure they’re evenly coated.
- Add the garlic powder, thyme, salt, smoked paprika, black pepper, and Parmesan cheese to the bowl. Stir until all the potatoes are covered with the seasoning.
- Place the seasoned potatoes in a single layer in your air fryer basket.
- Cook for 10 minutes, then shake the basket to ensure even cooking.
- Continue air frying for another 3-5 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Once done, remove the potatoes from the air fryer and, if desired, sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
Storing Suggestion
To store leftovers, place the roasted potatoes in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the air fryer or an oven for crispiness, avoiding the microwave, which may make them soggy.
Cooking Tips
For an extra crispy texture, try parboiling the potatoes for 5 minutes before air frying. You can also add fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley after cooking for a burst of fresh flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these crispy Parmesan potatoes with grilled meats, alongside a green salad, or as a snack with a dipping sauce like aioli or sour cream.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have baby potatoes, you can use larger potatoes cut into chunks. Substitute smoked paprika with regular paprika, and if you’re out of Parmesan cheese, try using Pecorino Romano.
Seasonal Variations
In the summer, add some fresh herbs like basil or oregano. During the winter months, pair these potatoes with heartier dishes like roasts or casseroles.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy (Parmesan cheese). For a dairy-free version, simply omit the cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.
FAQ:
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be used in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time slightly as they may cook faster.
How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking to the air fryer basket?
Ensure the potatoes are tossed well in olive oil before placing them in the air fryer. You can also lightly spray the basket with cooking spray.
Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
Yes, you can roast the potatoes in a conventional oven at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes, shaking halfway through.
How can I make the potatoes extra crispy?
To make them extra crispy, soak the potatoes in water for 30 minutes before cooking to remove excess starch, then dry them thoroughly before seasoning.
Can I prepare the potatoes in advance?
You can season the potatoes in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before air frying.
What’s the best way to reheat these potatoes?
The best way to reheat the potatoes is in the air fryer for 5-7 minutes at 375°F or in the oven for 10-15 minutes at the same temperature.
Air Fryer Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
Ingredients
- 1 pound baby potatoes cut in half
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese grated (plus extra for serving)
Instructions
- Set your air fryer to preheat at 400°F.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the halved potatoes with olive oil, stirring to ensure all pieces are well-coated. Add garlic powder, thyme, salt, paprika, pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the potatoes are evenly covered with the seasoning.
- Arrange the seasoned potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10 minutes. Then, remove the basket, shake the potatoes, and continue cooking for another 3 to 5 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Once done, remove the potatoes from the air fryer. If you like, sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese over the top before serving. Enjoy!
