Air-Fryer Diced Potatoes are the perfect side dish to elevate any meal without taking up too much of your precious time. If you’re looking for a crispy, golden-brown treat that is easy to whip up and bursting with flavor, you’ve landed in the right spot. With just a handful of ingredients and your trusty air fryer, you can create deliciously seasoned diced potatoes that will impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into why this recipe belongs in your rotation, what you need, and how to make these delightful potatoes.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation
Air-Fryer Diced Potatoes are not only quick to prepare, but they also offer a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried potatoes, all while maintaining that crispy texture we love. The air fryer allows for even cooking and browning, giving you that satisfying crunch without the excess oil. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish at dinner, tossing them into a hearty breakfast bowl, or snacking on them with your favorite dip, these potatoes are versatile and delicious. Plus, they can be customized with a variety of seasonings to suit your taste—perfect for any occasion!
What’s in the Bowl
To make Air-Fryer Diced Potatoes, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that you likely already have on hand:
- 8 ounces diced potatoes (cut into 1/2-inch cubes)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for that perfect crisp)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or seasoning of choice for flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (to enhance the taste)
- Air-fryer safe cooking spray (optional, for extra non-stick assurance)
Kitchen Gear Checklist
Before you get started, make sure you have the following kitchen tools:
- Air Fryer – The star of the show for achieving that crispy texture.
- Mixing Bowl – For tossing your diced potatoes with oil and seasonings.
- Spatula or Spoon – To mix and serve your delicious potatoes.
- Measuring Spoons – For accurate measurements of oil and seasonings.
Cooking Air-Fryer Diced Potatoes: The Process
With your ingredients ready and your gear in place, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by washing and peeling your potatoes if desired. Cut them into 1/2-inch cubes to ensure they cook evenly in the air fryer.
Step 2: Season the Potatoes
In a mixing bowl, combine the diced potatoes, olive oil, dried thyme (or your seasoning of choice), and salt. Toss everything together until the potatoes are evenly coated.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect, crispy exterior.
Step 4: Air Fry the Potatoes
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray if desired. Place the seasoned potato cubes in the basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded for optimal crispiness.
Step 5: Cook and Shake
Cook the potatoes for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. You want them to be golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, carefully remove the potatoes from the air fryer, and serve them hot. Enjoy them as a side dish or toss them into your favorite recipe, like Creamy Roasted Garlic Mashed Potato Bowls With Chicken.
Variations for Dietary Needs
Feel free to adapt this recipe to meet dietary preferences or restrictions:
- Herb Variations: Swap out thyme for rosemary, oregano, or even garlic powder for a different flavor profile.
- Oil Alternatives: Use avocado oil or coconut oil for a different taste and health benefits.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for some heat.
- Vegan Option: This recipe is already vegan-friendly, but you can enhance flavor with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese.
Chef’s Rationale
Why do I love these Air-Fryer Diced Potatoes? They are the epitome of simplicity and flavor. The air fryer provides a cooking method that not only saves time but also delivers a satisfying crunch. Using just a tablespoon of olive oil keeps the calorie count low while allowing the potatoes to crisp up beautifully. Plus, the versatility of seasonings means you can tailor this dish to fit any meal or craving.
Freezer-Friendly Notes
If you find yourself with leftovers, or if you want to prepare a batch ahead of time, Air-Fryer Diced Potatoes are surprisingly freezer-friendly. Allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and crispy again.
Quick Questions
How do I keep my diced potatoes from turning brown?
Keep your diced potatoes in cold water until you’re ready to season and cook them. This helps prevent oxidation and keeps them looking fresh.
Can I use frozen diced potatoes for this recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen diced potatoes, but adjust the cooking time as they may require a few extra minutes to achieve the perfect texture.
What other dishes pair well with Air-Fryer Diced Potatoes?
These potatoes are a fantastic accompaniment to roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or even as a base for breakfast bowls. Try them with Sheet Pan Lemon Herb Chicken Garlic Potatoes for a complete meal.
Can I meal prep these diced potatoes?
Absolutely! You can prepare and season a large batch of diced potatoes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before cooking them in the air fryer.
Make It Tonight
Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to make Air-Fryer Diced Potatoes tonight! They are simple, flavorful, and sure to be a hit at your table. With just a few ingredients and a little bit of your time, you can create a dish that everyone will love. Don’t wait—your air fryer is ready to transform those humble potatoes into a crispy delight!
Air-Fryer Diced Potatoes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes - Start by washing and peeling your potatoes if desired. Cut them into 1/2-inch cubes to ensure they cook evenly in the air fryer.
- Step 2: Season the Potatoes - In a mixing bowl, combine the diced potatoes, olive oil, dried thyme (or your seasoning of choice), and salt. Toss everything together until the potatoes are evenly coated.
- Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer - Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect, crispy exterior.
- Step 4: Air Fry the Potatoes - Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray if desired. Place the seasoned potato cubes in the basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded for optimal crispiness.
- Step 5: Cook and Shake - Cook the potatoes for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. You want them to be golden brown and crispy.
- Step 6: Serve and Enjoy - Once cooked, carefully remove the potatoes from the air fryer, and serve them hot. Enjoy them as a side dish or toss them into your favorite recipe.
Notes
- For a different flavor, try using rosemary or garlic powder in place of thyme.
- If you want a healthier option, substitute olive oil with avocado oil.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
