Crispy Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes with Parmesan & Rosemary: Your Ultimate Guide
Discover the magic of perfectly roasted fingerling potatoes, transformed into golden-brown, crispy bites in your air fryer, all while maintaining a delightfully creamy and tender interior. Seasoned with savory Parmesan cheese and fragrant fresh rosemary, these quick and easy air-fried fingerlings are so irresistible, you’ll find yourself reaching for just one more, every single time!
Table of Contents
- What Makes These Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes So Good?
- Ingredients and Substitutions for Perfect Air Fryer Fingerlings
- How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Storage and Reheating Tips for Leftover Fingerling Potatoes
- Key Recipe Tips for the Best Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes
- Delicious Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Fingerlings
- Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes: Recipe FAQs
- More Irresistible Air Fryer Potato Recipes
Fingerling potatoes, with their distinct shape and delightful texture, are a true culinary gem. While they might not always be prominently displayed in every grocery store, when I recently spotted bags of these elongated beauties, I knew they had to come home with me. And, as is often the case with most potato recipes in my kitchen, their destiny was clear: the air fryer! The air fryer is an absolute game-changer for potatoes, delivering unparalleled crispiness with minimal oil and effort.
This particular fingerlings air fryer recipe is a harmonious blend of two of my absolute favorite potato preparations: air fryer baby potatoes for their simple roasting technique and air fryer parmesan potatoes for that irresistible cheesy crispness. The preparation mirrors the ease of roasting baby potatoes, but with the added touch of freshly grated Parmesan, these fingerlings achieve an extra layer of crunch and a depth of savory flavor that you won’t soon forget.
What Makes These Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes So Good?
Beyond their delicious taste and ease of preparation, there are several compelling reasons why this Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes recipe stands out as a must-try:
- Unbeatable Speed: Roasting fingerlings in the air fryer is significantly quicker than traditional oven roasting. The intense, circulating hot air cooks them faster and more efficiently, meaning less waiting and more enjoying! You can have a gourmet-tasting side dish on your table in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
- Leftovers Are a Treat: Unlike many potato dishes that lose their appeal when cooled, these air-fried fingerlings are incredibly delicious as leftovers. A quick reheat in the air fryer brings them back to their crispy, tender perfection in just a few minutes, making them ideal for meal prep or a spontaneous snack.
- Ultra Crispy Texture: The addition of freshly grated Parmesan cheese isn’t just for flavor; it’s a secret weapon for achieving an unbelievably crispy exterior. As the cheese melts and crisps up, it forms a delectable crust around each potato, contrasting beautifully with the soft, creamy interior.
- Incredible Versatility: These fingerling potatoes are wonderfully adaptable. Serve them like gourmet fries with your favorite dipping sauce – try a zesty cashew red pepper dip or a classic aioli. Alternatively, they make an elegant and satisfying side dish alongside almost any protein, from a simple grilled chicken breast to a flavorful pork schnitzel, or even a hearty steak or fish.
- Simple & Approachable: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this recipe is accessible to cooks of all skill levels. It’s a fantastic entry point for anyone new to air frying or looking for an easy yet impressive potato dish.
Ingredients and Substitutions for Perfect Air Fryer Fingerlings
Crafting these irresistible air fryer fingerling potatoes requires just a handful of simple ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and potential substitutions to suit your pantry and preferences. The precise quantities can be found in the recipe card at the end of this post.
- Fingerling Potatoes: These unique potatoes are characterized by their small, elongated, and narrow shape, resembling fingers. They are distinctively lower in starch and higher in moisture, making them waxy with a wonderfully creamy texture when cooked. Their thin, delicate skin is also a major advantage for roasting, as it crisps up beautifully without needing to be peeled, adding to both texture and nutritional value. Look for varieties like Russian Banana, French Fingerling, or Red Thumb. If fingerlings are unavailable, baby potatoes (such as baby red or Yukon Gold) are an excellent substitute; simply ensure they are cut into uniform, bite-sized pieces.
- Oil: A good quality oil is essential for achieving that desirable crispy exterior. Olive oil is my go-to for its flavor, but avocado oil or canola oil are also excellent choices, particularly for their higher smoke points, which are well-suited for the air fryer’s intense heat. Feel free to use any neutral-flavored oil you prefer.
- Seasonings (Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt): These form the foundational flavor base, offering a classic savory profile.
- Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These provide concentrated, aromatic flavor without the risk of burning that fresh garlic or onion might pose at high air fryer temperatures.
- Salt: Fine sea salt is recommended for its even distribution and ability to enhance all the other flavors.
- Variations: Feel free to customize your seasoning blend! Experiment with dried herbs like oregano, basil, or Italian seasoning for an herbaceous twist. For a smoky kick, add smoked paprika. A pinch of chili powder or cumin can introduce a warm, earthy note. Black pepper is always a welcome addition for a subtle bite.
- Rosemary: Fresh rosemary is a true star in this recipe, imparting a highly fragrant, piney, and slightly citrusy flavor that perfectly complements potatoes. Its robust aroma is truly unmatched.
- Fresh vs. Dried: While fresh is highly recommended for its potent aroma and texture, dried rosemary can be used. If using dried, remember to crush it between your fingers to release its oils and flavor. Use only 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary for every tablespoon of fresh, as dried herbs are significantly more potent.
- Alternatives: Fresh or dried thyme would also work beautifully, offering a slightly earthier, lemony note.
- Parmesan Cheese: For the absolute best flavor and a superior crispy texture, freshly grated Parmesan cheese is non-negotiable. Its fine texture allows it to adhere perfectly to the potatoes, melting and crisping up into a delightful crust.
- Quality Matters: Avoid the pre-grated, shelf-stable powdered Parmesan found in shakers, as it often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from crisping properly and has a less intense flavor. Invest in a block of good quality Parmesan or Grana Padano and grate it yourself just before use.
- Substitution: Grana Padano is an excellent, slightly milder, and often more affordable substitute for Parmesan. If you need a dairy-free option, you can omit the Parmesan entirely or try a high-quality dairy-free Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy umami flavor, though the crispness might vary.
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating these perfectly crispy and tender air fryer fingerling potatoes is incredibly simple. Below is a concise overview of the steps, accompanied by photos to guide you. For precise measurements and further details, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card located at the conclusion of this post.
Storage and Reheating Tips for Leftover Fingerling Potatoes
One of the many great things about these air-fried fingerling potatoes is how delicious they are as leftovers! Properly stored, they can make for an excellent quick snack or a side dish for future meals.
To store, allow the potatoes to cool completely to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Place the container in the refrigerator, and they will keep wonderfully for 3-4 days. This makes them a fantastic option for meal prepping throughout the week.
When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheating is a breeze and brings them back to their crispy glory. Simply preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and air fry the leftover potatoes for about 5 minutes, or until they are thoroughly heated through, sizzling, and have regained their delightful crispiness. Avoid reheating in a microwave, as this will often make them soft and soggy, losing that desirable texture. An oven can also work, spread them on a baking sheet and heat at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Key Recipe Tips for the Best Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes
Achieving perfectly crispy and flavorful air fryer fingerling potatoes is easy with a few expert tips. Follow these guidelines to ensure success every time:
- Thorough Drying is Essential: After you’ve washed and scrubbed your potatoes clean, it is absolutely crucial to dry them thoroughly with a paper towel. Any residual moisture will steam the potatoes rather than crisp them, preventing that desirable golden-brown exterior from forming. Take the extra minute to ensure they are bone-dry!
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: While the potatoes don’t need to be in a single layer, avoid overfilling the air fryer basket. Overlapping them is fine, but if the basket is too full, air circulation will be restricted. This can lead to uneven cooking and less crispiness. If you’re cooking a larger batch, it’s better to work in two separate batches.
- Shake for Even Crispiness: Periodically stopping the air fryer (every 5-7 minutes) and giving the basket a good shake is vital. This rotates the potatoes, exposing all sides to the circulating hot air, which helps them cook more evenly and develop that perfect crispiness all around.
- Parchment Paper for Sticky Situations: If you’re concerned about the finely grated Parmesan cheese sticking to or falling through the air fryer basket, you can line the bottom with a perforated parchment paper liner designed for air fryers. While I generally don’t find this necessary with my air fryer model (Cosori 5.8 quart), it’s a useful trick for peace of mind, especially with certain basket designs.
- Rosemary Timing for Aromatic Bliss: We prefer to toss the fresh rosemary in with the potatoes just before serving. This allows the herb’s vibrant fragrance to shine through, providing a burst of fresh flavor with every bite. If you prefer a more subtle, cooked-in rosemary flavor, you can add it along with the other seasonings before air frying.
- Adjust for Your Air Fryer Model: This recipe was developed and tested using a Cosori 5.8 quart air fryer. Air fryer models vary significantly in wattage, size, and heating elements. Therefore, you may need to adjust the temperature and/or air frying time slightly to achieve the best results with your specific appliance. Always keep an eye on your potatoes, especially during the first cook.
- Cut Uniformly: Aim for potatoes of similar size or cut them into uniform halves to ensure they cook evenly. This prevents some pieces from being overcooked while others remain undercooked.
- Preheat Your Air Fryer: While not strictly necessary for all recipes, preheating your air fryer for 3-5 minutes at the cooking temperature can help achieve a more consistent and quicker crisp from the start.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste a potato after it’s cooked (and cooled a bit!) and before serving. You can always add more salt, pepper, or fresh herbs to suit your preference.
Delicious Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Fingerlings
These crispy Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes are incredibly versatile and can elevate a wide range of meals. Here are some ideas to inspire your next dinner:
- Classic Side Dish: Serve them alongside roasted chicken, pan-seared salmon, grilled steak, or a hearty pork chop for a complete and satisfying meal. Their crispy texture provides a delightful contrast to tender proteins.
- Gourmet Fries: Ditch the traditional fries and offer these fingerlings as an elevated alternative. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces like homemade aioli, sriracha mayo, a creamy herb dip, or a tangy ketchup.
- Brunch Star: Elevate your weekend brunch by serving these potatoes with scrambled eggs, a frittata, or alongside some crispy bacon and sausages.
- Salad Topper: Let them cool slightly and add them to a warm salad for extra texture and flavor. They work wonderfully with mixed greens, goat cheese, and a balsamic vinaigrette.
- Appetizer or Snack: Arrange them on a platter with a selection of dips for an easy and impressive appetizer at gatherings. They’re also perfect for a quick, satisfying snack on their own.
- Burger or Sandwich Companion: Move beyond potato chips and serve these fingerlings with your favorite burger, pulled pork sandwich, or grilled cheese for a more substantial and flavorful side.
- Bowl Meals: Incorporate them into healthy grain bowls with roasted vegetables, a lean protein, and a flavorful dressing for a wholesome and balanced meal.
Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes: Recipe FAQs
Fingerling potatoes are small, elongated, and narrow varieties of potatoes, aptly named for their finger-like shape. They typically have a thin skin and a lower starch content compared to larger, rounder potatoes like Russets. This makes them waxy and gives them a wonderfully creamy, firm texture when cooked, rather than a fluffy or mealy one. Popular varieties include Russian Banana, French Fingerling, and Red Thumb.
Absolutely not! The skin on fingerling potatoes is quite thin and delicate, making peeling entirely unnecessary. In fact, keeping the skin on is highly recommended as it contributes significantly to the potatoes’ crispy texture when air-fried. Plus, the skin contains valuable nutrients and fiber. Just make sure to scrub them thoroughly clean under running water and dry them very well before seasoning.
No, there’s no need to soak fingerling potatoes before air frying. Soaking is typically recommended for starchier potatoes, like Russets, to remove excess starch, which helps them crisp up. However, fingerlings are naturally more waxy and less starchy, so soaking isn’t required to achieve a crispy result. The addition of Parmesan cheese in this recipe also helps to enhance their crispiness further.
Yes, you can certainly air fry whole fingerling potatoes if you prefer. However, be aware that keeping them whole will increase the cooking time. If air frying them whole, you’ll need to add an additional 6-8 minutes (or potentially more, depending on their size) to the recommended air frying time to ensure they are cooked through and tender in the center. Cutting them in half lengthwise, as suggested in the recipe, helps them cook faster and more evenly, and also creates more surface area for crisping.
Absolutely! This recipe is adaptable to other potato varieties. Baby potatoes (such as baby red, Yukon Gold, or creamer potatoes) are excellent substitutes, offering a similar waxy texture. If using larger, full-size potatoes (like Yukon Golds or even Russets), you’ll need to cut them into smaller, uniform, bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch chunks) to ensure they cook evenly and within a reasonable timeframe. Depending on the size and type of potato, you may need to adjust the air frying time slightly – smaller pieces will cook faster, while denser potatoes might take a bit longer.
Yes, you can definitely leave out the Parmesan cheese to make this recipe dairy-free. While the Parmesan adds a fantastic savory flavor and an extra layer of crispiness, the potatoes will still be delicious and wonderfully crispy on their own with just the oil and other seasonings. If you’d like to retain a cheesy flavor, you could try tossing the potatoes with nutritional yeast or a high-quality dairy-free Parmesan alternative during the last few minutes of air frying.
While you technically can freeze cooked fingerling potatoes, their texture may change upon thawing and reheating. They tend to become softer and lose some of their crispiness. For best results, it’s generally recommended to enjoy them fresh or reheated from the fridge. If you do freeze them, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to an airtight bag. Reheat from frozen in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes.
More Irresistible Air Fryer Potato Recipes
If you’ve fallen in love with the ease and deliciousness of air-fried potatoes, you’re in luck! The air fryer is a potato’s best friend, capable of creating a wide array of crispy, tender, and flavorful dishes. Here are some more air fryer potato recipes you might enjoy trying:
- Air Fryer Home Fries
- Air Fryer Potato Wedges
- Air Fryer Potato Slices
- Air Fryer Potato Cakes
- Air Fryer Roasted Baby Potatoes
- Air Fryer Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
We hope you enjoy making these fantastic Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes! If you give this recipe a try, we would absolutely love to hear your thoughts and feedback in the comments section below!
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Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes
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Author: Leanne
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Side Dish
Method: Air Fry
Cuisine: American, Canadian
Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes with parmesan and rosemary are golden brown and crispy on the outside and creamy and tender in the middle.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds fingerling potatoes
- 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/3 cup grated fresh parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
Instructions
- Scrub the potatoes clean and dry well with a paper towel.
- Cut the potatoes in half lengthwise and add them to a large bowl.
- Toss with oil, garlic powder, onion powder and salt.
- Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry on 400F for 15-20 minutes, or until almost fork tender. Stop the air fryer to shake the basket a few times. This will help to evenly crisp up the potatoes.
- Sprinkle on the parmesan and air fry for another 5 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy.
- Top with fresh chopped rosemary and serve.
Notes
- After you wash the potatoes and scrub them clean, make sure you dry them well. Wet potatoes won’t crisp up nicely.
- The potatoes don’t need to be air fried in a single layer. You can overlap them, just be careful not to fill up the basket.
- If you’re worried about the grated parmesan sticking to or falling through the air fryer basket, you can use a parchment paper liner.
- If you don’t like how fragrant fresh rosemary is, instead of adding it just before serving, you can add it to the potatoes with the other seasonings before air frying.
- To substitute with dried rosemary, reduce the amount to 1 teaspoon and crush it up before adding it along with the other seasonings.
- This recipe was tested in a Cosori 5.8 quart air fryer for this recipe. If you have a different size, brand or model of air fryer, you may need to adjust the temperature and/or air frying time slightly.
- Be sure to check out the other sections above the recipe card for more detailed advice and suggestions for making this recipe.