Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Potatoes

Equipment

• Air Fryer (4-quart or larger recommended)
• Mixing bowl
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons and cups

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs (680g) Baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or Baby Reds), halved or quartered
• 2 tbsp Olive oil
• 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is best for melting)
• 1 tsp Garlic powder
• 1 tsp Smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp Dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp Salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp Black pepper
• Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: Pinch of red pepper flakes (for heat)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes (Time: 5 minutes | Intensity: Low)

1. Wash and scrub the baby potatoes thoroughly. Cut them in half (or quarters if they are large) so they are all roughly the same size. This ensures even cooking. Tip: Pat the potatoes completely dry with a paper towel. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness.

Step 2: Create the Parmesan Crust (Time: 3 minutes | Intensity: Low)

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until the spices are evenly distributed through the cheese.

Step 3: Coat the Potatoes (Time: 5 minutes | Intensity: Medium)

1. Add the dried potato halves to the bowl with the Parmesan mixture. Drizzle the olive oil over the potatoes. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly. Ensure every potato surface is coated in the oil and the cheese/spice blend. The cheese should cling to the potatoes.

Step 4: First Air Fry Session (Time: 12 minutes | Intensity: Medium)

1. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil (or use a perforated parchment liner). Place the potatoes in a single layer in the basket, cut-side down. Do not overcrowd. If you have a smaller air fryer, cook in two batches.
2. Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 12 minutes . Shake the basket halfway through (at the 6-minute mark) to ensure even browning.

Step 5: Second Air Fry Session – Crisping (Time: 8-10 minutes | Intensity: High)

1. After the first 12 minutes, increase the temperature to 400°F (204°C) . Shake the basket again to flip the potatoes. Air fry for an additional 8 to 10 minutes , or until the potatoes are golden brown, crispy, and the cheese has formed a crust.
2. Note on Intensity: This final stage is high-intensity cooking. Keep an eye on them during the last 3 minutes to prevent the cheese from burning, as Parmesan can go from golden to charred quickly.

Step 6: Rest and Serve (Time: 2 minutes | Intensity: Low)

1. Remove the potatoes from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving plate. Let them rest for 2 minutes (the cheese will harden slightly, becoming crunchier). Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: ~210 kcal · Protein: 7g · Fat: 10g · Carbohydrates: 24g Dietary · Saturated Fat: 3.5g · Fiber: 3g · Sugar: 1g · Sodium: 380mg