New potatoes need 15 to 20 minutes in an air fryer, depending on size. So if you are wondering how long do you cook new potatoes in an air fryer, the short answer is 15 to 20 minutes at 400°F (200°C), with a shake halfway through.
They come out crispy on the outside and fluffy inside. And you barely need any oil to get there.
This guide breaks down exact times by size, plus simple steps, seasoning ideas, and fixes for common mistakes.
How Long Do You Cook New Potatoes In An Air Fryer
Timing depends mostly on how big your potatoes are. Small ones cook fast. Larger ones need a few extra minutes.
- Baby potatoes (1 inch or less): 12 to 15 minutes
- Small new potatoes (1 to 1.5 inches): 15 to 18 minutes
- Medium new potatoes (1.5 to 2 inches): 18 to 22 minutes
- Halved or quartered pieces: 12 to 15 minutes
Always cook at 400°F (200°C). This temp gives you a golden crust without drying out the inside.
If your air fryer runs hot, drop it to 390°F and add 1 to 2 minutes. Every machine is a little different.
Why New Potatoes Work So Well In An Air Fryer
New potatoes have thin skins and waxy flesh. That means they hold their shape and turn creamy inside.
They also cook quicker than big russet potatoes. No need to parboil or preheat the oven.
The air fryer circulates hot air all around each potato. That gives you even browning on all sides.
What You Need Before You Start
- 1 pound of new potatoes
- 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- Optional: garlic powder, paprika, rosemary, or parsley
A bowl for tossing helps. So does a sharp knife if you plan to cut them.
Step-By-Step Instructions For Air Fryer New Potatoes
Follow these steps and you will get consistent results every time.
- Rinse the potatoes under cold water. Scrub off any dirt with your hands or a soft brush.
- Pat them dry with a clean towel. Wet potatoes steam instead of crisping.
- Cut larger potatoes in half or quarters. Leave small ones whole.
- Put the potatoes in a bowl. Drizzle with oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any seasonings.
- Toss until every potato is coated. Use your hands or a spoon.
- Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd.
- Cook at 400°F for 15 minutes. Shake the basket at the 8-minute mark.
- Check for doneness. A fork should slide in easily. If not, cook 3 to 5 more minutes.
- Serve hot with your favorite dip or side.
Total time from start to plate is about 25 minutes. Most of that is hands-off cooking.
Do You Need To Soak New Potatoes First
No. New potatoes have low starch, so soaking is not needed.
Soaking is for cut russet potatoes that release starch. New potatoes skip that step.
Just rinse, dry, and cook.
Should You Boil New Potatoes Before Air Frying
No, and please don’t. Boiling adds water and makes them soggy.
The air fryer cooks them fully on its own. You get better texture without the extra step.
Tips For Crispy Air Fryer New Potatoes
Small changes make a big difference. Here is what works.
- Dry the potatoes well after rinsing.
- Use enough oil to coat, but not so much they sit in a puddle.
- Keep them in one layer. Cook in batches if needed.
- Shake the basket halfway through for even browning.
- Add fresh herbs after cooking. Dried herbs can go in before.
- For extra crunch, spray a light coat of oil at the 10-minute mark.
If your potatoes come out pale, your air fryer may run cool. Raise the temp by 10°F next time.
Best Seasonings For New Potatoes
Keep it simple or go bold. Both work.
- Garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika
- Rosemary and thyme with sea salt
- Lemon pepper and parsley
- Chili powder and cumin for a spicy kick
- Parmesan cheese sprinkled in the last 2 minutes
Salt matters most. Add it before cooking so it sticks.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
These are the issues people run into most.
- Overcrowding the basket. The potatoes steam instead of roast.
- Not drying them. Wet skin equals soft skin.
- Skipping the shake. One side burns while the other stays pale.
- Cutting them too small. They dry out fast.
- Using too little oil. A light coat helps browning and seasoning stick.
Fix these and your potatoes will turn out great.
How To Tell When New Potatoes Are Done
You have three easy checks.
- Pierce with a fork. It should go in with little resistance.
- Look at the skin. It should be wrinkled and golden brown in spots.
- Shake the basket. Done potatoes rattle and feel light.
If the inside is still firm, give them 3 more minutes. Check again after that.
Can You Reheat Air Fryer New Potatoes
Yes. Reheat at 375°F for 4 to 6 minutes.
They crisp back up nicely. The microwave makes them soft, so avoid it if you can.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days in a sealed container.
What To Serve With New Potatoes
These potatoes go with almost anything.
- Grilled chicken or steak
- Baked salmon
- Eggs and bacon for breakfast
- Burgers or sandwiches
- A simple green salad
They also work as a snack with ketchup, aioli, or sour cream.
Air Fryer New Potatoes At A Glance
Here is the quick version if you just need the numbers.
- Temperature: 400°F (200°C)
- Time: 15 to 20 minutes
- Shake: halfway through
- Oil: 1 to 2 tablespoons
- Prep: rinse, dry, cut larger ones
Small potatoes take closer to 12 minutes. Bigger ones push toward 22. Always check with a fork before serving.
Once you cook new potatoes in the air fryer a couple times, you will not need to measure anymore. You will know by look and feel. Start with 15 minutes, shake halfway, and adjust from there. That is the whole method.