The Best Potatoes for Air Fryer: Perfect for Crunchy Delights

Are you on the hunt for the best potatoes for your air fryer? Look no further! Using an air fryer can revolutionize your potato meal prep, offering a crispy exterior with a tender inside in less time than traditional methods. This guide delves into the best potato varieties, ensuring your next meal is irresistibly delicious.

Types of Potatoes Ideal for Air Frying

Not all potatoes are created equal, especially when it comes to air frying. Here are some types you should consider:

• Russet Potatoes: These are starchy and ideal for frying, yielding fluffy insides and crispy outsides.


• Yukon Gold: Known for their buttery flavor and creamy texture, they are versatile and perform beautifully in an air fryer.


• Sweet Potatoes: With their natural sweetness and nutritional benefits, they adapt well to air frying.


• Fingerling Potatoes: Their unique shape holds up well and offers a delightful bite-size option.

What are the best potatoes for air fryer fries?

Russet potatoes are often considered the best for making air fryer fries due to their high starch content. This promotes a crunchy exterior while remaining fluffy on the inside.

Research Insight

According to a study published by The Idaho Potato Commission, russet potatoes are favored due to their texture and taste, especially in frying applications. Read more here.

How to Prepare Potatoes for Air Frying

Preparation is key! Here’s how to get your potatoes ready for the air fryer:

• Wash and peel (if desired) the potatoes.


• Cut them into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.


• Soak them in cold water for about 30 minutes to remove excess starch, then dry thoroughly.


• Toss them with oil and seasoning to taste.

Should I soak potatoes before air frying?

Soaking potatoes is highly recommended as it helps in achieving a crispier texture by removing excess starch.

Expert Opinion

Chef Jamie Oliver states that "soaking potatoes can make a world of difference in achieving that perfect golden crunch." Learn more about it here.

Tips for Achieving Perfectly Cooked Potatoes

For air fryer success, consider these practical tips:

• Do not overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if necessary.


• Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.


• Experiment with cooking times for different potato types to find your perfect texture.

How long does it take to air fry potatoes?

Typically, potato pieces take between 15-25 minutes at 375°F, depending on thickness and variety.

Case Study Example

In a cooking demo, a group showed that when air frying Yukon Gold potatoes at 400°F for 20 minutes yielded an ideal soft and crispy texture. Check out the results here.