Some nights, I just need dinner to be easy, cozy, and full of flavor — no fuss, no mess.
That’s when I reach for my air fryer and make this air fryer kielbasa and potatoes.
It’s the kind of hearty, rustic dish that hits the spot every single time.
Why I Love This Recipe
It’s a one-basket wonder — no extra pans needed!
The air fryer kielbasa and potatoes come out crisp, juicy, and so flavorful.
Minimal prep, simple seasoning, and ready in under 30 minutes.
Great for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or meal prep.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Potatoes: Starchy or all-purpose potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russet work well.
They crisp beautifully in the air fryer.
Kielbasa sausages: Smoky, garlicky Polish sausage that adds richness and depth.
You can use turkey kielbasa too.
Brown onion: Adds sweetness and contrast to the savory sausage.
Olive oil: Just a bit helps everything crisp without drying out.
All-purpose seasoning: Adds a savory, herby kick.
Garlic granules: For a warm, toasty flavor that complements both potatoes and sausage.
Salt & pepper: Season to taste and balance the whole dish.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Soak the potatoes in cold water — this removes starch for crispier results.
Make sure to dry the potatoes well before air frying.
Don’t overcrowd the basket — cook in batches if needed.
Toss halfway through air frying for even browning.
How to Make Air Fryer Kielbasa and Potatoes
Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (360°F).
Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes.
Place them in a large bowl of cold water and rinse several times until the water runs clear.
Drain and pat them completely dry with a clean towel.
Step 2: Season the Potatoes
Transfer the dry potatoes to a large bowl.
Add half of the olive oil, all-purpose seasoning, garlic granules, salt, and black pepper.
Toss until all the pieces are evenly coated.
Step 3: First Air Fry
Place the seasoned potatoes in the preheated air fryer basket.
Air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to cook evenly.
The potatoes should be fork-tender and mostly cooked (about 90–95%).
Step 4: Prep the Sausage and Onion
While the potatoes are cooking, slice the kielbasa into thick rounds or on a bias (diagonal slices).
Chop the onion into chunky pieces and separate the layers.
Toss the sausage and onions in the remaining olive oil in a bowl until lightly coated.
Step 5: Combine and Finish Cooking
Add the sausage and onions to the air fryer basket with the potatoes.
Toss gently to combine without breaking the potatoes.
Air fry for another 5–8 minutes, flipping once midway through, until the sausage is browned and the onions are slightly caramelized.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the air fryer, let cool for 2 minutes, then serve hot.
Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika, if desired.
What to Serve It With
Pair it with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies for a well-rounded meal.
Top with sour cream or mustard for an extra flavor punch.
This also works great inside a toasted bun for a kielbasa sandwich twist!
Variations / Substitutions
Swap kielbasa with smoked turkey sausage or vegan sausage.
Add bell peppers or mushrooms with the onions for extra color and veggies.
Try paprika or smoked paprika instead of all-purpose seasoning.
Use sweet potatoes for a sweeter contrast to the savory sausage.
Storage & Leftovers
Let leftovers cool fully before storing.
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the air fryer at 180°C (360°F) for 4–5 minutes to crisp it back up.
Freezing is possible, but textures may soften — better to enjoy fresh or refrigerated.
FAQs
Do I need to boil the potatoes first?
No! The air fryer crisps them up beautifully without pre-boiling, as long as they’re soaked and dried well.
Can I use frozen kielbasa?
Yes, but thaw it fully before slicing and cooking so it browns properly.
What kind of potatoes work best?
Starchy or all-purpose varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold give the best crispy results.
Can I cook everything at once from the start?
It’s best to give the potatoes a head start so they get crispy before adding the sausage and onion.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding and uneven cooking.
How do I keep the potatoes from sticking?
Tossing them in a little oil and not overcrowding the air fryer helps prevent sticking.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, just be sure your kielbasa and seasoning blend are certified gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
This air fryer kielbasa and potatoes is everything I want in a weeknight dinner — hearty, quick, and bursting with comfort.
The crispy potatoes, smoky sausage, and sweet onion all come together in a way that feels like a home-cooked hug.
It’s one of those recipes that’s always in rotation at my house — and once you try it, you’ll see why.
