Air Fryer Crunchy Cream Potatoes

Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, these air fryer potatoes are a quick, savory side dish with a delicious golden crunch. Perfect for weeknights or special gatherings, they’re easy, flavorful, and always a hit!

When it comes to the perfect potato dish, there’s something magical about combining a crispy outer crust with a soft, creamy interior. Air fryer crunchy cream potatoes give you just that—a golden, irresistibly crunchy layer wrapping around a tender, melt-in-your-mouth core. If you've ever craved a side dish that’s both comforting and a little bit gourmet, this recipe checks all the boxes. And the best part? It’s all done in the air fryer, so you get that deep-fried crispiness without the extra oil or fuss.

This dish is a fantastic choice for any occasion, whether you’re prepping a family dinner or adding an impressive side to your holiday spread. You’ll find this recipe not only easy to make but also versatile, pairing well with a variety of mains like roasted meats, fish, or even a hearty soup like Kenny Hot and Sour Seafood Soup.

What Are Air Fryer Crunchy Cream Potatoes?

Essentially, air fryer crunchy cream potatoes are bite-sized potato halves that are first parboiled to soften, then tossed with a bit of oil and seasonings, and finally air-fried to golden perfection. They end up with a crunchy outer layer and a creamy, fluffy center that’s perfect for absorbing flavors. For an extra touch, you can finish them off with a light drizzle of cream or sour cream to balance the crispiness with some smooth, rich texture.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a side dish that feels elegant yet approachable. And because it’s made in the air fryer, you’re cutting down on the oil and calories without sacrificing that deep-fried feel. It's a win-win for anyone looking to eat a bit lighter or simply simplify their cooking routine.

Why You’ll Love These Potatoes

If you’re a fan of perfectly crispy potatoes, you’re in for a treat. The air fryer does an amazing job of creating a crunch that you’d typically need a deep fryer to achieve. Plus, these potatoes are incredibly versatile. Serve them as an appetizer, alongside your favorite steak, or even as a base for breakfast hash with a dollop of garlic aioli. Speaking of which, check out this easy Blue Jam Garlic Aioli Recipe for a dipping sauce that pairs beautifully with these crunchy cream potatoes.

This dish is also incredibly adaptable to your taste. You can play with different seasonings, from a simple sprinkle of sea salt to a bold blend of paprika, garlic powder, and rosemary. And if you’re in the mood for a smoky kick, try topping them with a dash of smoked paprika right before serving.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Crunchy Cream Potatoes

To create this delicious recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1. Small Waxy Potatoes (like Baby Yukon Golds or Red Potatoes)
   Waxy potatoes are perfect because they hold their shape well after cooking and provide a creamier texture than starchy varieties. They’re also naturally buttery and flavorful, which shines through in this recipe.

2. Olive Oil
   A light coat of olive oil helps crisp up the potatoes in the air fryer without making them greasy. Choose a quality extra-virgin olive oil for the best flavor.

3. Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper
   Seasoning is simple but essential here. Salt brings out the potatoes' natural sweetness, while black pepper adds just a hint of heat and depth.

4. Garlic Powder or Fresh Garlic (optional)
   Garlic powder gives a subtle, even garlic flavor without overwhelming the dish. If you prefer a stronger garlic taste, feel free to add fresh minced garlic instead.

5. Cream or Sour Cream (for serving)
   The creaminess balances the crispiness, especially when you drizzle it over the hot potatoes right before serving. Sour cream adds a tangy note that complements the richness of the olive oil.

6. Fresh Herbs (like Chives, Rosemary, or Parsley)
   Fresh herbs not only add color but also bring out a fragrant aroma that enhances the whole dish. Chives or parsley are mild and fresh, while rosemary adds a more earthy, pine-like flavor.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Air Fryer Crunchy Cream Potatoes

Let’s walk through the process of creating these crunchy cream potatoes in the air fryer. It’s straightforward, but there are a few tips to make sure you get that perfect balance of crispy and creamy every time.

1. Parboil the Potatoes

Start by cutting your potatoes into halves or quarters, depending on their size. Place them in a pot of salted boiling water and parboil for about 10 minutes, or until just tender. You should be able to pierce them with a fork, but they shouldn’t be falling apart. This step softens the inside of the potatoes, so they’ll turn creamy after air frying.

2. Drain and Dry Thoroughly

Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly. Then, pat them dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is key to getting that crisp texture, as any leftover water will steam the potatoes instead of letting them fry to a crunchy finish.

3. Season with Olive Oil, Salt, and Pepper

In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated. Add garlic powder if you like a bit of a garlicky kick. Make sure each potato is evenly coated so they all crisp up the same way in the air fryer.

4. Air Fry the Potatoes

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket to avoid overcrowding, which can make them soggy. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking. The potatoes should be golden and crispy on the outside.

5. Serve with Cream and Fresh Herbs

For that creamy finish, drizzle a bit of warm cream or sour cream over the potatoes right after they come out of the air fryer. Garnish with chopped chives, rosemary, or parsley for an added layer of flavor and a pop of color.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Crunchy Cream Potatoes Every Time

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Waxy potatoes work best because of their creamy texture and ability to hold their shape.
• Don’t Skip the Parboil: Parboiling ensures the potatoes are tender inside while still giving them a chance to crisp up on the outside.
• Dry the Potatoes Well: Removing moisture is essential for that all-around crunch, so make sure they’re thoroughly dry before air frying.
• Add Fresh Herbs Last: Fresh herbs can burn in the air fryer, so save them for garnishing once the potatoes are done cooking.

If you’re looking for other flavorful sides to complement these potatoes, consider trying a unique bread option like this Tippins Cornbread Recipe, which pairs wonderfully with savory potato dishes. Or for a more substantial pairing, Lamb Ragu D'Rose Mary would make for a satisfying meal combination.

Serving Ideas for Air Fryer Crunchy Cream Potatoes

These air fryer crunchy cream potatoes are versatile enough for almost any meal. They make an excellent side for grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even seafood. Serve them with a simple dip like Blue Jam Garlic Aioli or alongside a fresh green salad to keep things light.

For a cozy, satisfying meal, consider pairing them with a hearty stew or soup. The crispy texture of the potatoes offers a nice contrast to dishes with a smooth, rich broth, like a classic chowder or a meat-based ragu.

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Air Fryer Crunchy Cream Potatoes

These air fryer crunchy cream potatoes are the ultimate combination of crispy golden edges with a creamy, tender center. With minimal oil and prep time, this recipe brings out the rich flavor of potatoes for a side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal. Perfectly seasoned and finished with a drizzle of cream, these potatoes are sure to become a favorite at your table.

Ingredients

• 1 lb small waxy potatoes (such as Baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes), halved
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream or sour cream (for serving)
• 1 tbsp fresh chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cut the potatoes in half or quarters, ensuring they are evenly sized. Place them in a pot of salted water and parboil for 10 minutes, until just tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes well and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
3. In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using), making sure each potato piece is evenly coated.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
5. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the potatoes are golden and crispy on the outside.
6. Serve immediately with a drizzle of cream or sour cream and garnish with chopped chives or parsley.

15 minutes prep time with 20 minutes cook time.

Serves 6 and contains approximately 180 calories per serving.

American, European / Side Dish, Comfort Food

Rated 4.8 by 1379 reviewers.

Recipe Tags: air fryer crunchy cream potatoes, crispy potatoes, air fryer recipes, creamy potatoes, side dish, comfort food, easy potato recipes, holiday sides

Published by: Show Recipe

Air fryer crunchy cream potatoes bring the best of both worlds to the table: a crispy, golden crust with a creamy, tender inside. It’s a simple recipe that lets the natural flavors of the ingredients shine, and it pairs well with a wide range of main dishes and sauces.

These potatoes are perfect for any gathering, family dinner, or even as a delicious snack on a cozy evening. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll see how easy it is to elevate your usual potato side dish into something truly memorable. Plus, with the convenience of the air fryer, it’s as easy as it is delicious.