If you’re looking for the ultimate crispy snack or side dish with bold flavor and a little heat, Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Potatoes are your answer. These golden-brown bites are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and drizzled with a sweet, spicy, creamy sauce that hits all the right notes. Thanks to the air fryer, you get the perfect crunch without deep frying—and they’re ready in just 20 minutes!
Why I Love This Recipe
These potatoes are the kind of snack you make “just to try” and end up devouring the entire batch. The air fryer works its magic to create restaurant-quality texture, while the Bang Bang sauce—a mix of creamy mayo, sweet chili, hot sauce, and sriracha—takes things over the top. Think of it as a cross between spicy fries and a loaded appetizer, like Dorito Casserole or Crockpot Nacho Dip, but even easier.
Ingredients
For the Potatoes:
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Spicy Drizzle:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp hot sauce
- ½ tsp sriracha
- ½ tsp honey
Ingredient Notes & Swaps
- Baby Potatoes: Fingerlings or small Yukon golds also work—just cut them to uniform size.
- Spice Level: Adjust sriracha and hot sauce to your heat preference. Omit the honey for a sharper kick.
- Dairy-Free: Use vegan mayo and a plant-based chili sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer
Set the air fryer to 400°F. - Season the Potatoes
In a large bowl, toss halved baby potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well coated. - Air Fry
Place seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 15–20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until crispy and golden brown. - Make the Spicy Drizzle
While the potatoes cook, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, hot sauce, sriracha, and honey in a small bowl. Taste and adjust for heat or sweetness. - Serve It Up
Transfer crispy potatoes to a plate and drizzle generously with the Bang Bang sauce. Serve immediately.
Tips for Success
- Single Layer Cooking: Don’t overcrowd the basket—this ensures even browning.
- Shake Halfway: Gives all sides of the potatoes that craveable crunch.
- Prep the Sauce Ahead: Make extra—it’s great on everything from tacos to Sheet Pan Quesadillas.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
These Bang Bang potatoes are versatile! Pair them with:
- Grilled meats or seafood
- Beer Cheese Dip for a creamy contrast
- Chicken Enchiladas to spice up dinner
- Crockpot Nacho Dip for a bold appetizer spread
- Dorito Casserole for the ultimate comfort combo
Storage & Leftovers
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Pop back in the air fryer for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Don’t Freeze: The sauce doesn’t freeze well, and potatoes lose texture.
More Recipes You’ll Love
Looking for more snacks and sides with bold flavor? Try these:
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas – cheesy and fast
- Dorito Casserole – cheesy, crunchy, and always a hit
- Beer Cheese Dip – rich and perfect for dipping
- Crockpot Nacho Dip – melty and meaty
- Chicken Enchiladas – saucy and satisfying
Final Thoughts
These Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Potatoes are the perfect combo of spicy, creamy, and crunchy. Whether you’re hosting game night, need a creative side, or just want to spice up snack time, this recipe delivers big-time flavor with minimal effort. You’ll be reaching for another bite before the plate even hits the table.
Tried it? Tag @ChefManiac and share your potato pics! And don’t forget to follow for more air fryer ideas, bold sauces, and crave-worthy side dish recipes.
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