Parmesan Crusted Airfryer Potatoes

Name: Parmesan Crusted Airfryer Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds of baby potatoes; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Easy Comfort Recipes

I absolutely love making Parmesan Crusted Airfryer Potatoes, as they offer a deliciously crispy texture with an irresistible cheesy flavor. The air fryer cooks the potatoes to perfection, giving them that golden-brown crunch while keeping the insides fluffy and tender. By tossing the potatoes in a mix of Parmesan and herbs, we elevate this simple side dish to something truly special. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, these potatoes are guaranteed to impress while still being easy to prepare.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-07T17:26:28.245Z

When I first decided to try Parmesan Crusted Airfryer Potatoes, I was skeptical about how well the air fryer would crisp them up. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the outcome! The secret lies in the even hot air circulation in the air fryer, which gives the potatoes that satisfying crunch without the excess oil.

Another tip I learned is that parboiling the potatoes for just a few minutes before air frying helps them become even fluffier on the inside. It’s a simple step that makes a world of difference in texture. I can’t wait for you to try this delightful side dish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crispy exterior packed with rich Parmesan flavor
Simple preparation that anyone can master
Perfect complement to any main dish

Understanding the Potatoes

When selecting potatoes for this recipe, baby potatoes work best due to their small size and natural sweetness. The skin is thin, allowing for a crispy exterior while maintaining a fluffy interior. Using uniform sizes helps ensure they cook evenly—around 1 to 2 inches in diameter is ideal. You can also substitute with new potatoes or small Yukon Golds if baby potatoes are unavailable, but avoid larger varieties which may require longer cooking times.

Parboiling the potatoes is a crucial step that enhances texture. By boiling for just 5-10 minutes, you soften the potatoes slightly, ensuring they cook through in the air fryer while still retaining their shape. Avoid overcooking them in the boiling stage; a fork should pierce them with slight resistance, indicating they are ready to be drained and coated.

Maximizing Flavor with Coatings

Olive oil not only helps the coatings adhere to the potatoes but also contributes to the browning process. When tossed with Parmesan and herbs, it creates a flavorful barrier that results in a crunchy texture. For a twist, consider adding spices like smoked paprika or cumin to the mix for an extra layer of flavor. Remember to adjust the salt to balance out the added spices if you choose to experiment.

Garlic powder plays a dual role by imparting flavor and enhancing the savoriness of the dish. Feel free to replace it with fresh minced garlic for a more pronounced taste, though I recommend using half of the amount listed as fresh garlic is more potent. This small adjustment will ensure that the garlic taste does not overpower the cheese and herbs.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Parmesan Crusted Airfryer Potatoes:

For the Potatoes

2 pounds of baby potatoes
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your air-fried potatoes:

Prepare the Potatoes

Begin by washing the baby potatoes thoroughly. Place them in a pot of boiling water and parboil for 5-10 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and let them cool for a few minutes.

Season & Coat

In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the cooled potatoes and toss until they are well coated.

Air Fry

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy.

Once cooked, serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Parmesan Crusted Airfryer Potatoes!

Pro Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, try adding fresh herbs such as parsley or rosemary just before serving. You can also experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella for a unique twist.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover Parmesan Crusted Airfryer Potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, their crispy texture may diminish during storage. To reheat them while maintaining optimal crunch, I recommend using the air fryer again at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This brief reheating allows them to regain their crispy exterior without overcooking the insides.

If you plan to make these potatoes ahead of time, prep all the ingredients by parboiling and coating them on the day before. Store the coated potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet in the fridge, then transfer them to the air fryer when you're ready to cook. This allows for a quick and convenient side dish whenever you need it.

Serving Suggestions

These Parmesan Crusted Airfryer Potatoes pair beautifully with a variety of main dishes. They complement roasted meats, such as chicken or beef, adding a delightful crunch to your meal. I also love serving them alongside grilled fish or seafood, as the rich, cheesy flavor balances the freshness of the ocean's bounty.

For a more casual dining experience, try serving these potatoes as an appetizer or snack. Dip them in garlic aioli or your favorite dipping sauce to elevate the experience. Beyond traditional sides, consider tossing them into salads for added texture or using them as a base for a loaded potato dish topped with sour cream, chives, and bacon bits.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use larger potatoes?

Yes, but you'll want to cut them into smaller chunks to ensure even cooking.

→ Is it necessary to parboil the potatoes?

Parboiling helps ensure the insides are fluffy. If you're short on time, you can skip this step, but the texture may differ.

→ What dipping sauces go well with these potatoes?

I love serving them with garlic aioli or a spicy dipping sauce for an extra kick!

→ Can I make these potatoes ahead of time?

While they are best served fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best results.