Air Fryer Canned Potatoes

Air Fryer canned potatoes are easy to make as a delicious side dish for any meal. You can cook or fry them in the oven or skillet, but this perfect side dish uses your air fryer! This is a healthier alternative to frying and still gives you crispy, flavorful potatoes!

Canned Potatoes Recipe

You can cook or fry them in the oven or skillet, but this perfect side dish uses your air fryer! This is a healthier alternative to frying and still gives you crispy, flavorful potatoes!

Introducing the ultimate guide to mastering air fryer canned potatoes! You’ve hit the jackpot if you’re seeking a quick, delicious side dish with minimal prep time. Often overlooked, canned potatoes can transform into a crispy, golden delight in your air fryer, offering a convenient and tasty option for any meal. Whether you’re a busy parent, a student on the go, or simply looking to add a new twist to your culinary repertoire, this guide will show you how to elevate these humble spuds into a crowd-pleasing favorite. Perfectly seasoned and with a texture that balances crispy exteriors with tender insides, air fryer canned potatoes will soon become your go-to for a fast and satisfying accompaniment to any dish. So, let’s dive in and discover the simplicity and versatility of air-frying canned potatoes, ensuring your next meal is easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious!

What Are Canned Potatoes?

Canned potatoes (or tinned potatoes) are potatoes that have been peeled, cooked, and then sealed in a can with water (and sometimes a bit of salt) to preserve them. This process gives the potatoes a long shelf life, making them a convenient pantry staple. They are fully cooked and ready to eat right out of the can, which makes them a time-saving ingredient for quick meals.

Canned potatoes can be used in various dishes, including soups, stews, salads, and side dishes.

They’re instrumental when you need a cooked potato but don’t have the time or inclination to peel, chop, boil, or roast fresh potatoes. Due to the canning process, canned potatoes have a soft texture and a mild flavor, which makes them versatile for incorporating into recipes that call for cooked potatoes.

Can You Cook Canned Potatoes In The Air Fryer?

Yes, you can cook canned potatoes in the air fryer! This method is a fantastic way to give canned potatoes a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and tender. Air frying canned potatoes enhances their flavor and adds a delightful texture contrast that can elevate simple canned spuds into a more gourmet dish.

Why You’ll Love Canned Potatoes Recipe

• Canned goods are shelf-stable and budget-friendly
• You only need cans of potatoes and a handful of herbs or spices.
• Delicious and crispy — no one will know these came canned!
• So easy in the air fryer

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Canned Potatoes

Prepare to elevate the humble canned potato with key ingredients that promise to unlock a world of flavor and texture. This straightforward lineup will guide you through creating a dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also irresistibly delicious.

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

• Can of Potatoes: The star of the show, canned potatoes offer convenience and a soft texture that crisps up beautifully in the air fryer. They’re fully cooked, saving you time and effort in the kitchen.
• Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil ensures your potatoes have that golden crispness while enhancing their natural flavors. It also helps seasonings stick to the potatoes.
• Salt: Essential for bringing out the potatoes’ flavors, Kosher salt or sea salt is a simple seasoning that makes a big difference, highlighting the potatoes’ natural taste.
• Black Pepper: A hint of black pepper introduces a mild heat and complexity, elevating the potatoes from plain to savory with just a few grinds.
• Garlic Powder: Garlic powder offers a quick and easy way to infuse your potatoes with a rich, aromatic flavor. It complements the crispy exterior with a hint of garlic.
• Paprika (optional): Paprika is an excellent addition for those who enjoy a little smokiness with a mild kick. It adds color and depth to the dish.
• Fresh Herbs (optional, for garnish): A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving adds a burst of color and freshness, enhancing the visual appeal and adding a layer of fresh flavor.

With these ingredients, you’re all set to turn canned potatoes into a satisfying and simple gourmet side dish.

How To Cook Whole Canned Potatoes In Air Fryer

Cooking whole canned potatoes in the air fryer is an excellent way to transform them into a delicious, crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside side dish. Here’s how you can do it:

Step 1: Preparation

• Drain the whole potatoes and rinse them under cold water to remove the canning liquid and excess starch.
• Thoroughly pat the potatoes dry with paper towels. Removing as much moisture as possible ensures they crisp well in the air fryer.

Step 2: Season Potatoes

• Place the dried potatoes in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil or lightly coat them with cooking spray. The oil helps the seasoning stick to the potatoes and promotes browning and crisping.
• Season the potatoes with salt, black pepper, and any additional seasonings you like. Toss them until they are evenly coated.

Step 3: Cook Potatoes

• Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F (200°C) if your model requires preheating.
• Arrange the seasoned whole potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between them for air circulation.
• Set cook time for 5-7 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy outside. Shake the basket or turn the potatoes halfway through the cooking time to ensure they cook evenly.

How To Cook Canned Potato Slices In Air Fryer

Cooking canned potato slices in the air fryer is a breeze and a fantastic way to achieve a delicious, crispy side dish with minimal effort. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making perfectly crispy canned potato slices in the air fryer: they come in chip-like shapes for maximum convenience.

Step One: Prep the Potatoes

• Start by draining the pre-sliced cans of potatoes or sliced potatoes and rinsing them under cold water to remove excess starch or brine. Canned potatoes have plenty of salt, so rinsing the potatoes will wash away some of the salt.
• Pat the potato slices dry with paper towels to ensure they crisp up nicely in the air fryer. The key is to remove as much moisture as possible.

Step Two: Season Potatoes

• In a bowl, toss the dried potato slices with olive oil or spray them lightly with cooking spray. Ensure each slice is lightly coated to help the seasonings stick and achieve a golden crispness.
• Season the oiled potato slices with salt, black pepper, and any additional seasonings you prefer. Toss them well to ensure even coverage.

Step Three: Air Fry

• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes to ensure a crispy outcome.
• Arrange the seasoned potato slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. It’s crucial not to overcrowd them, as air circulation is necessary for even crisping.
• Set cook time for 5-7 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Shake the basket or flip the slices halfway through cooking to ensure they brown evenly.

Step Four: Serving

• Once the potato slices are crisped to your liking, carefully remove them from the air fryer.
• Serve immediately as a side dish or with your favorite dipping sauce. They’re excellent with ketchup, aioli, or a herb yogurt dip.

How To Season Canned Potatoes

Seasoning canned or tinned potatoes effectively can elevate them from a simple pantry staple to a delightful side dish. Here’s a straightforward approach:

• Drain and Rinse: Start by draining the liquid from the can and rinsing the potatoes to remove preservatives or excess salt.
• Dry Thoroughly: Pat the potatoes dry with paper towels to ensure the seasonings and oil adhere well.
• Oil Lightly: Toss the potatoes in a light coating of olive oil or melted butter. This helps the seasoning stick and contributes to a crispier finish when cooked.
• Basic Seasonings: Season with salt and black pepper. These foundational seasonings enhance the potatoes’ natural flavor.
• Add Aromatics: Incorporate garlic powder and onion powder for depth and a savory boost.
• Herbs and Spices: For an aromatic touch, experiment with dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano. Smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can add a smoky or spicy kick.
• Toss to Coat: Toss the potatoes thoroughly in a bowl to ensure they are evenly coated with the seasoning mix.
• Adjust to Taste: Taste a small piece if possible, and adjust the seasonings according to your preferences.
• Marinate Briefly: Let the seasoned potatoes sit for a few minutes before cooking to deepen the flavors, especially if using robust spices or herbs.
• Versatile Use: These seasoned potatoes can be roasted, air-fried, sautéed, or grilled, offering a versatile side dish for any meal.

By following these steps, you’ll have perfectly seasoned canned potatoes ready to be transformed into a delicious and crispy accompaniment to your main dishes.

Pro Tips

To elevate your air fryer canned potatoes to gourmet levels, consider these pro tips:

• Preheat Your Air Fryer: Starting with a preheated air fryer ensures a crispy exterior. Aim for a temperature of 400°F (200°C) for the best results.
• Ensure Even Cooking: Cut the potatoes into uniform sizes for even cooking. If using whole canned potatoes, consider slicing them in half or quarters, depending on their initial size.
• Dry Potatoes Thoroughly: After rinsing, pat the potatoes dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is key to achieving a crispy finish.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Arrange the potatoes in a single layer with some space between them. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of frying, preventing them from getting crispy.
• Shake or Turn Midway: Halfway through cooking, shake the basket or turn the potatoes to ensure they brown and crisp up evenly on all sides.
• Use Oil Sparingly: A light spray or drizzle of oil is enough. A thin layer of olive oil helps the potatoes crisp up. Too much oil can make the potatoes soggy rather than crispy.
• Season Well: Season the potatoes after drying them but before air frying. This ensures the seasonings stick to the potatoes and enhance their flavor. Use your favorite spices. 
• Experiment with Flavors: Beyond essential salt and pepper, experiment with garlic powder, paprika, rosemary, or Parmesan cheese for different flavor profiles.
• Finish with Freshness: After cooking, finish the potatoes with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color and a fresh flavor boost.
• Serve Immediately: Air-fried potatoes are best served hot and crispy straight from the air fryer. Their texture can change as they cool.
• Customize Your Dip: To complement the crispy potatoes, serve with a side of your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup, aioli, or a homemade herb dip.

By incorporating these pro tips, your air fryer canned potatoes will be a convenient and quick side dish and a flavorful and crispy delight that could steal the show at any meal.

Faq’s

Do I need to preheat my air fryer before cooking canned potatoes? Yes, preheating your air fryer to around 400°F (200°C) ensures a crispy exterior on the potatoes from the start.

How long does it take to air fry canned potatoes? It typically takes about 5-7 minutes to air fry canned potatoes at 400°F (200°C), but the exact time can vary based on your air fryer model and how crispy you like your potatoes.

Should I peel canned potatoes before air-frying them? Canned potatoes come pre-peeled, so there’s no need to peel them. Drain and rinse them, and they’re ready to season and air-fry.

Can I air fry potatoes straight from the can, or must I do something to them first? Drain and rinse the potatoes first to remove the canning liquid and excess starch. Drying them thoroughly before seasoning and air frying them are also recommended for the best texture.

How do I prevent air-fried canned potatoes from becoming soggy? After rinsing, ensure the potatoes are well-dried, use minimal oil, and don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow for proper air circulation. Use a little oil to ensure all canned or tinned potatoes are coated, giving you the crispy edges you get with a skillet. While olive or avocado oil is best, you can use vegetable or canola oil.

Can I make these ahead of time and reheat them? While air-fried potatoes are best served fresh, reheat them in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes to crisp them back up.

What seasonings work well with air-fried canned potatoes? Salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, onion powder, paprika, and dried herbs like rosemary or thyme are great additions. For a different flavor, you can experiment with Parmesan cheese or chili powder.

Are air-fried canned potatoes healthy? Air frying is a healthier alternative to deep frying, as it uses significantly less oil. Thus, these potatoes are a healthier choice while still being delicious.

Can I use cooking spray instead of oil? Yes, cooking spray is a convenient way to lightly coat the potatoes for air frying without adding too much oil.

How to store leftover canned potatoes: Let the potatoes cool to room temperature, and then alce the leftover canned or tinned potatoes into an airtight container or freezer bag. The leftovers will last for 2-3 days in the refrigerator. 

What dipping sauces pair well with air-fried canned potatoes? Classic ketchup, garlic aioli, ranch dressing, or a sour cream and chive dip are excellent choices for dipping sauce.

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