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Donna R. Luis

Easy Air Fryer Potato Cubes

Crispy Air Fryer Breakfast Potatoes combine tender Yukon Gold potatoes, smoky paprika, garlic, onion, and black pepper for a golden, savory side dish. Air frying delivers crisp edges and tender centers in about 20 minutes, with an optional quick broil for extra crunch.
Prep Time 7 minutes
Cook Time 23 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 1 serving
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes washed and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh chopped parsley for topping (optional)

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Cutting board
  • sharp knife
  • Measuring spoons
  • Spoon or spatula for tossing

Method
 

  1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F for 5 minutes while preparing the potatoes.
  2. Wash and Dry the Potatoes: Wash the Yukon Gold potatoes thoroughly and dry them very well before cutting.
  3. Dice the Potatoes: Cut the potatoes into even 1/2-inch cubes so they can cook and brown consistently.
  4. Season the Potatoes: Place the diced potatoes in a large bowl, add the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, then toss thoroughly until the potatoes are evenly coated.
  5. Arrange in the Basket: Transfer the seasoned potatoes to the air fryer basket and spread them into an even layer, avoiding overcrowding so the potatoes can become crispy; work in batches if necessary.
  6. Air Fry the Potatoes: Air fry at 375°F for 20 minutes, pausing to toss the potatoes 2–3 times during cooking so they cook evenly and remain well coated.
  7. Check for Doneness: Continue until the potatoes are fork-tender and beginning to brown around the edges.
  8. Optional Extra-Crisp Finish: If the air fryer has an air broil function, broil the potatoes for 2–3 minutes at the end, shaking as needed to stir them; alternatively, increase the heat to 450°F and broil them that way.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Top the finished potatoes with fresh chopped parsley if desired, then serve while hot.

Notes

  • Cut the potatoes into consistent 1/2-inch cubes so they cook evenly and develop a similar level of browning.
  • Dry the washed potatoes very well before adding the oil and seasonings.
  • Toss the potatoes thoroughly with the olive oil and seasonings so the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper are distributed evenly.
  • Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, as the source notes that overcrowding can prevent the potatoes from becoming as crispy.
  • Toss the potatoes 2–3 times during the 20-minute air-frying period for more even cooking and browning.
  • The potatoes are ready when they are fork-tender and beginning to brown around the edges.
  • For a crispier finish, use the air fryer’s broil function for 2–3 minutes, or increase the heat to 450°F and broil them if that function is unavailable.
  • Fresh chopped parsley is optional but adds a simple finishing touch.