New potatoes cooking times
How long to cook new potatoes: 15–20 min boiled, 18–22 min steamed, 30–40 min in the oven at 200°C (180°C fan) and 18–22 min in an air fryer at 200°C. Every way to cook it is below, with the temperature and how to tell it’s done.
How long to cook new potatoes
Times are for 750 g, for 4.
| Method | Time | Heat | How |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boil | 15–20 min | from cold salted water, once boiling | Toss with butter and mint or chives. |
| Steam | 18–22 min | over simmering water | – |
| Oven | 30–40 min | 200°C (180°C fan), 400°F, gas 6 | Halved, tossed in oil and salt. |
| Air fryer | 18–22 min | 200°C (400°F) | Halved, tossed in a tablespoon of oil; shake halfway. |
| Microwave | 6–8 min | on full power, covered | Halved, with 3 tablespoons of water; stir halfway. |
Also see: Roast potato and potato times (roast, baked, mashed and Yorkshires).
Before you start
Scrub; no need to peel. Halve any big ones so they’re all the same size.
How to tell it’s done
A knife slides in easily.
Questions
How long to boil new potatoes?
15–20 min from cold salted water, once boiling. Toss with butter and mint or chives.
How long to steam new potatoes?
18–22 min over simmering water.
How long to cook new potatoes in the oven?
30–40 min at 200°C (180°C fan), 400°F, gas 6. Halved, tossed in oil and salt.
How long to cook new potatoes in an air fryer?
18–22 min at 200°C (400°F). Halved, tossed in a tablespoon of oil; shake halfway.
How long to microwave new potatoes?
6–8 min on full power, covered. Halved, with 3 tablespoons of water; stir halfway.
Times are a guide for typical home portions: ovens, air fryers, microwaves and the size of what you’re cooking all vary. Check meat, poultry and fish with a thermometer before serving. Safe temperatures follow USDA and UK Food Standards Agency guidance, last checked 11 November 2026.