How to Achieve Perfect Roast Potatoes in an Air Fryer Every Time
Posted by Team Salter on 31st Mar 2026
How to Achieve Perfect Roast Potatoes in an Air Fryer Every Time
To cook perfect roast potatoes in an air fryer, start by choosing a floury potato like Maris Piper. Peel, chop, and parboil the potatoes for 8-10 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and shake them in a colander to fluff the edges, then coat with one tablespoon of vegetable oil and a pinch of salt. Preheat your air fryer to 200°C and cook for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure an even, golden crunch. Using an air fryer for roast potatoes is faster than a conventional oven and can save significant energy, making it a highly efficient method for the perfect Sunday roast.
Introduction
The Sunday roast is a cherished British tradition, and the crowning glory of the plate is undeniably the roast potato. Achieving that glass-like crispiness on the outside while maintaining a fluffy, cloud-like centre can be a culinary challenge. However, as the "Experts in everyday," Salter knows that upgrading your kitchen appliances can completely transform your cooking experience.
Using an air fryer to cook your roasties has revolutionised weekend dinners. Not only does it free up much-needed space in your main oven for the meat and Yorkshire puddings, but it also delivers incredibly consistent results without compromising on quality or flavour.
Why Choose an Air Fryer for Your Roasties?
If you haven't yet made the switch, you might be wondering why you should change a classic cooking method. Here is why air frying your side dishes is a smart choice:
- Energy Efficiency: Air fryers heat up rapidly and cook faster than traditional ovens, making them a value-led choice that can help save on household energy bills.
- Healthier Results: The rapid air circulation technology requires a fraction of the oil used in deep-roasting, offering a lighter way to enjoy a hearty favourite.
- Superior Texture: The enclosed, high-heat environment quickly dehydrates the surface of the potato, creating an unbeatable crunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Air Fryer Roast Potatoes
Master the ultimate air-fried potato.
Select the Right Spud
The secret starts with the potato. Opt for a floury variety like King Edward or Maris Piper, which yield the best fluffy interiors.
Prep and Parboil
Peel and cut your potatoes into evenly sized chunks. Place them in a pan of cold, salted water, bring to the boil, and simmer for 8-10 minutes until the outsides are just tender.
Fluff the Edges
Drain the potatoes well and let them steam dry for two minutes. Give the colander a vigorous shake to roughen up the edges—this is crucial for catching the oil and creating crispy shards.
Oil and Season
Transfer to a bowl and toss with just one tablespoon of high-smoke-point oil (like sunflower or vegetable oil) and your favourite seasoning.
Air Fry
Preheat your appliance to 200°C. Place the potatoes in the basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 20-25 minutes.
The Golden Shake
Halfway through the cooking time, remove the drawer and give the potatoes a good shake to ensure they brown evenly on all sides.
Pros of Air Frying Potatoes
Pros
- ✔Frees up the main oven for large joints of meat.
- ✔Cooks in almost half the time of a conventional oven.
- ✔Delivers a consistent crunch with minimal effort and oil.
Use the right air fryer
Ready to transform your family dinners? Explore the Salter range of air fryers today. Offering premium features at an accessible price point, it’s the perfect time to bring expert, value-led cooking into your home.
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