Roasted potatoes are a delicious side dish that many people love. But when you have leftovers, reheating them can be tricky. Using an air fryer is one of the best ways to bring those crispy, golden potatoes back to life. It’s quick, and efficient, and preserves their texture far better than other reheating methods.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to reheat roasted potatoes in an air fryer for the best results.
Why Reheat Roasted Potatoes in an Air Fryer?
Reheating roasted potatoes in an air fryer offers several distinct benefits compared to other methods like microwaving or using the oven:
Restores Crispiness
Microwaves often make roasted potatoes soggy, and ovens can dry them out. An air fryer revives its crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and fluffy.
Quick and Convenient
Air fryers heat up quickly and require less time compared to conventional ovens.
Even Heating
The circulating hot air in the air fryer ensures that every piece of potato is reheated evenly without overcooking.
Energy Efficient
Air fryers consume less energy than preheating and using a full-size oven, making them an eco-friendly choice.
Preparing Leftover Roasted Potatoes for Reheating
Assess the Condition of the Potatoes
Take the leftover roasted potatoes out of the refrigerator and evaluate their condition. If they’ve dried out slightly, tossing them in a small amount of olive oil can restore some moisture and help with crispiness.
Bring to Room Temperature (Optional)
While not mandatory, letting the potatoes sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes can reduce the reheating time. This step is especially useful if you’re reheating a large batch.
Add Seasonings
If the potatoes seem a bit bland or have lost some flavor, now is the time to enhance them. Sprinkle them with additional salt, pepper, or even a pinch of garlic powder, paprika, or dried herbs to elevate their taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Reheat Roasted Potatoes in an Air Fryer
Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures the air fryer is at the optimal temperature, allowing the potatoes to reheat evenly and regain their crispness quickly.
Arrange the Potatoes
Spread the roasted potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can hinder the hot air circulation and result in uneven reheating. If you’re reheating a large quantity, it’s better to reheat them in batches for consistent results.
Reheat the Potatoes
Place the basket in the air fryer and set the timer for 4-6 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through the reheating process to ensure all sides of the potatoes are evenly heated and crispy.
Check for Doneness
After 4-6 minutes, check the potatoes for crispiness and temperature. If they’re not heated through or lack crispiness, reheat for an additional 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to overheat, as this can dry them out.
Serve Immediately
Once the potatoes are perfectly reheated, transfer them to a serving dish and enjoy. The air fryer ensures they stay crispy for longer compared to other reheating methods, but they are best served hot and fresh.
Enhancing the Flavor of Reheated Roasted Potatoes
Add Fresh Herbs
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley, rosemary, or thyme over the reheated potatoes for a burst of flavor.
Parmesan Cheese
Grating some Parmesan cheese over the potatoes immediately after reheating adds a savory, cheesy touch.
Drizzle with Sauce
A light drizzle of garlic butter, pesto, or aioli can transform reheated roasted potatoes into a gourmet side dish.
Spice It Up
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, toss the potatoes with a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper before reheating.
Reheating Frozen Roasted Potatoes in an Air Fryer
If you’ve frozen your roasted potatoes, reheating them in an air fryer is just as simple. Here’s how to do it:
No Need to Thaw
You can reheat frozen roasted potatoes directly in the air fryer without thawing them first.
Adjust the Temperature and Time
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and reheat the frozen potatoes for 8-10 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating.
Check for Crispiness
If the potatoes are not crispy enough, increase the temperature slightly to 400°F (204°C) and reheat for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Season After Reheating
Frozen potatoes might lose some seasoning during freezing. Add extra salt, pepper, or herbs after reheating to enhance their flavor.
Comparing Reheating Methods: Air Fryer vs. Other Methods
Air Fryer
Quick, retains crispiness, evenly reheats, and is energy-efficient.
Microwave
Fast and convenient it makes potatoes soggy, with uneven heating and loss of crispiness.
Oven
Good for large batches and even heating but requires a longer reheating time and higher energy usage.
Stovetop
Adds a crispy texture if done right but requires close attention, can burn easily, and might not heat evenly.
Tips for Perfectly Reheated Roasted Potatoes
Avoid Overcrowding
Overcrowding prevents proper air circulation, resulting in uneven reheating.
Use a Cooking Spray
If you’re reheating a very dry batch of potatoes, lightly spray them with cooking oil to restore moisture and enhance crispiness.
Monitor Closely
Every air fryer is different, so reheating times may vary. Check the potatoes frequently to avoid burning.
Reheat in Small Batches
This ensures each piece of potato is evenly reheated and crispy.
FAQs
Can I reheat potatoes in an air fryer without oil?
Yes, you can reheat roasted potatoes in an air fryer without oil. However, adding a light coat of oil can help restore crispiness and prevent dryness.
How long does it take to reheat roasted potatoes in an air fryer?
Reheating roasted potatoes in an air fryer typically takes 4-6 minutes at 375°F (190°C). For larger or frozen portions, it may take slightly longer.
Can I reheat other vegetables with roasted potatoes in the air fryer?
Yes, you can reheat roasted vegetables alongside potatoes in the air fryer. Ensure they’re evenly spaced and adjust the cooking time as needed, depending on the type of vegetables.
What’s the best way to store leftover roasted potatoes?
Store leftover roasted potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to 3-4 days and are best reheated in the air fryer for optimal taste and texture.
Final Thoughts
Reheating roasted potatoes in an air fryer is the ultimate solution for preserving their texture and flavor. It’s simple, fast, and results in perfectly crispy potatoes that taste as good as freshly made. Whether you’re reheating leftovers from a family dinner or preparing a quick snack, the air fryer is your go-to appliance for the job.
