These air fryer breakfast potatoes are a delightful diner-style side dish. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they’re seasoned with paprika and garlic powder, and cooked alongside bell peppers for added flavor and color. Perfect for pairing with eggs, bacon, or even serving as a hearty addition to your breakfast-for-dinner lineup.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 2 large baking potatoes
• 2 small bell peppers
• 1½ tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1½ teaspoons garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 4 slices bacon for garnish

Directions

1. Wash and dice the potatoes and bell peppers into 1-inch cubes.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the diced potatoes and peppers. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
3. Sprinkle the mixture with salt, garlic powder, paprika, and pepper. Stir to ensure even seasoning.
4. Transfer the seasoned vegetables into the air fryer basket, ensuring some space for air circulation.
5. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even cooking.
6. Once the potatoes are browned and crispy, remove them from the air fryer.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with crumbled bacon and chopped parsley if desired.

Nutritional Facts

Per serving:

• Calories: 186 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0.01g
• Cholesterol: 8mg
• Sodium: 726mg
• Potassium: 636mg
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 3g
• Vitamin A: 1993 IU
• Vitamin C: 97mg
• Calcium: 21mg
• Iron: 1mg

Why Choose Air Fryer for Cooking Potatoes?

The air fryer has quickly become one of the most popular kitchen appliances due to its ability to cook food quickly and efficiently with minimal oil. Potatoes, when cooked in an air fryer, achieve a crispy and golden exterior, similar to deep frying, but without the need for excess oil. This results in a healthier version of your favorite potato dishes without compromising on flavor. Air frying uses hot air circulation to cook food, which means that it cuts down on the use of fat while still creating that irresistible crispiness that everyone loves.

Another significant advantage of using an air fryer is the cooking time. Traditional methods of cooking potatoes, whether by roasting or frying, can take a while. With the air fryer, you can have perfectly cooked breakfast potatoes in a fraction of the time, making it perfect for busy mornings. The air fryer is not only faster but also much easier to clean compared to a traditional fryer, which requires dealing with large amounts of hot oil.

The Nutritional Benefits of Breakfast Potatoes

Potatoes are an incredibly nutritious vegetable that can contribute to a balanced diet when prepared correctly. They are a good source of vitamins, particularly vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health. They also provide significant amounts of potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and supports heart health. Potatoes are also rich in fiber, particularly when the skins are left on, which aids in digestion and helps keep you full longer.

By preparing breakfast potatoes in an air fryer, you can enjoy these benefits while keeping the fat content low. Traditional methods of frying potatoes in oil can add a significant amount of unhealthy fats and calories. Air frying minimizes the use of oil, allowing the potatoes’ natural nutrients to shine through without the added grease. The result is a much lighter dish that still delivers all the satisfying texture and flavor you crave in your morning meal.

Flavoring Your Air Fryer Breakfast Potatoes

One of the best aspects of making breakfast potatoes in the air fryer is the ability to experiment with various flavorings and seasonings. Potatoes are incredibly versatile and take well to many types of herbs, spices, and seasonings. From the classic combination of salt and pepper to more adventurous blends like rosemary, garlic, paprika, and cayenne, the options are endless.

For a savory kick, you can add garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika, which will complement the natural earthiness of the potatoes. If you’re in the mood for something a bit spicier, you can add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper for an extra layer of heat. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can add a fragrant and savory depth, while dried herbs such as oregano or basil can introduce a Mediterranean flair.

If you enjoy a bit of tanginess, consider adding a dash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese after the potatoes come out of the air fryer. This will not only enhance the flavor but also provide a delightful contrast to the rich and crispy texture of the potatoes. For a more indulgent version, you can also experiment with adding melted butter, sour cream, or a sprinkle of crumbled bacon on top.

Air Fryer Breakfast Potatoes as a Versatile Side Dish

While these air fryer breakfast potatoes are delicious on their own, they also pair well with a variety of other breakfast or brunch items. Their crispy texture and savory flavor make them an ideal side dish for scrambled eggs, sunny-side-up eggs, or even a fluffy omelet. Bacon, sausage, or grilled chicken are also excellent protein options to serve alongside the potatoes, creating a well-rounded and filling meal.

For those who prefer a vegetarian or plant-based breakfast, these potatoes can be paired with sautéed vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. You can even make a breakfast burrito by wrapping the potatoes, scrambled eggs, and your favorite toppings like salsa, avocado, and cheese in a tortilla.

Air fryer breakfast potatoes can also be served as part of a more extensive brunch spread. They are easy to prepare in large batches and can be kept warm in the oven while you finish preparing the rest of your meal. Their crispy texture holds up well, making them a great option for buffets or large gatherings.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Leftovers

If you have leftover air fryer breakfast potatoes, storing and reheating them correctly will help maintain their crispiness and flavor. First, allow the potatoes to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

When you’re ready to reheat the potatoes, the air fryer is your best bet for restoring their crispy texture. Simply place the potatoes back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3–5 minutes. This will ensure that they regain their golden, crispy exterior without becoming soggy. If you don’t have an air fryer, you can also reheat them in the oven on a baking sheet at 350°F (175°C) for around 10 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crisping.

While you can technically reheat the potatoes in the microwave, doing so will result in a less crispy texture. If you’re looking to enjoy the potatoes in their original crispy state, avoid using the microwave as much as possible.

Making the Recipe Your Own

One of the benefits of cooking at home is the ability to make recipes your own. Air fryer breakfast potatoes are no exception. You can customize the recipe by adding different ingredients or adjusting the seasoning to suit your tastes. For example, you could add diced bell peppers, onions, or even cheese for a more filling and flavorful dish.

Conclusion

Air fryer breakfast potatoes offer a healthier, faster, and more versatile way to enjoy a beloved breakfast classic. By using the air fryer, you can achieve the same crispy and satisfying texture without the extra calories and fats that come with traditional frying methods. With endless seasoning and flavoring options, you can easily customize this dish to suit your preferences and dietary needs.