Name: Air Fryer Cajun Potatoes – Crispy, Spicy Side Dish
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 19 min
Ingredients: 1 24 oz package small Yukon Gold potatoes; 1½ tablespoons butter (melted); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; ¼ teaspoon dried oregano; ¼ teaspoon garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (for garnish)

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Craving a side dish that’s crispy, packed with bold flavors, and ready in a flash? These Air Fryer Cajun Potatoes are your new go-to for a quick, zesty addition to any meal. With a spicy Cajun kick and a perfectly golden crunch, they’re ideal for weeknight dinners, game-day spreads, or summer barbecues. I started making these when I got my air fryer, and they’ve become a staple in my kitchen—my family can’t get enough of that spicy, crispy goodness! Let’s fire up the air fryer and whip up this easy, crowd-pleasing dish.

Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Cajun Potatoes

Bold and Zesty: Cajun seasoning brings a spicy, smoky flavor that wakes up your taste buds.
Super Quick: Ready in about 20 minutes, thanks to the air fryer’s magic.
Crispy Perfection: Golden and crunchy outside, tender and fluffy inside—no deep frying needed.
Healthy Twist: Less oil than traditional fried potatoes, keeping things light yet satisfying.
Versatile Side: Pairs with burgers, grilled meats, or even as a snack with dipping sauce.
Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level to suit your crowd, from mild to fiery.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients for These Air Fryer Cajun Potatoes

You’ll need just a few ingredients to make these potatoes pop:

Potatoes: Baby potatoes or Yukon Golds, cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Olive oil: For crispiness and to help the seasoning stick.
Cajun seasoning: Store-bought身后

System: bought or homemade for bold flavor. A mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, and oregano works great.

Salt: To enhance the natural potato flavor.
Black pepper: For a touch of extra spice.
Optional add-ins: Garlic powder, smoked paprika, or chili powder for a custom twist.
Optional garnish: Chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh, colorful finish.

Prep Tip: Cut potatoes into uniform 1-inch pieces to ensure even cooking. If using store-bought Cajun seasoning, check the salt content and adjust added salt accordingly. For a homemade blend, mix 1 tbsp paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, ½ tsp cayenne, ½ tsp thyme, and ½ tsp oregano.

How to Make Air Fryer Cajun Potatoes – Step-by-Step

These Air Fryer Cajun Potatoes are a breeze to make and deliver big on flavor. Here’s how to do it:

Prep the Potatoes: Wash 1.5 lbs baby potatoes (or Yukon Golds) and cut into 1-inch chunks. If using baby potatoes, halve or quarter them for bite-sized pieces. Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Season the Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the potato pieces with 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper. Mix well to coat evenly. Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder if you want extra depth or heat.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for 3–5 minutes, if required by your model.
Cook the Potatoes: Place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding (work in batches if needed). Air fry for 15–20 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes for even cooking, until the potatoes are golden and crispy on the outside and tender inside.
Check for Doneness: Test a potato piece with a fork—it should be soft inside with a crisp exterior. If not crispy enough, air fry for an additional 2–3 minutes.
Garnish and Serve: Transfer the potatoes to a serving dish. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh touch, if desired. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch, ketchup, or spicy mayo.

Texture Cue: The potatoes should be crispy and golden on the outside with a fluffy, tender interior. If they’re not crispy enough, ensure they’re well-dried before seasoning and avoid overcrowding the basket.

Helpful Tips for Air Fryer Cajun Potatoes

Avoid Soggy Potatoes: Pat the potatoes dry after cutting to remove excess water, which can prevent crispiness. Don’t skip the oil—it’s key for that golden crunch.
Make Ahead: Prep and season the potatoes a few hours in advance and store in the fridge. Air fry just before serving for the best texture.
Storage Smarts: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture may become mushy.
Serving Ideas: Pair with grilled meats, burgers, or fried chicken for a hearty meal. They’re also great as a snack with dipping sauces or tossed into a salad for extra crunch.
Spice It Up: For extra heat, add ¼ tsp cayenne or a dash of hot sauce to the seasoning mix. For milder flavor, reduce the Cajun seasoning to 2 tsp and skip the cayenne.

FAQs About Air Fryer Cajun Potatoes

Can I use a different type of potato for Air Fryer Cajun Potatoes?
Yes! Baby potatoes or Yukon Golds are ideal for crispiness, but russets or red potatoes work too. Just cut them into uniform 1-inch pieces for even cooking.

How do I keep Air Fryer Cajun Potatoes crispy?
Ensure the potatoes are dry before tossing with oil and seasoning. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket, and shake it regularly for even air circulation.

Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
Yes! Toss the seasoned potatoes on a baking sheet and roast at 425°F in a preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden.

What’s the best way to serve Air Fryer Cajun Potatoes?
Serve hot as a side with barbecue, burgers, or grilled veggies. They’re also great as a snack with ranch, garlic aioli, or spicy ketchup for dipping.

Can I make this recipe less spicy?
Absolutely! Use a mild Cajun seasoning or make your own with less cayenne. You can also replace some Cajun seasoning with smoked paprika for smoky flavor without heat.

These Air Fryer Cajun Potatoes are my go-to for a quick, flavorful side that never fails to impress. I make them for everything from weeknight dinners to game-day parties, and they’re always gone in minutes. My final tip? Don’t skip shaking the basket—it’s the secret to perfectly crispy potatoes. Try them out and let me know in the comments how you like them or what dipping sauces you pair them with. Happy air frying!