Air Fryer Sliced Potatoes – Crispy, Quick, and Incredibly Easy
Introduction
Air Fryer Sliced Potatoes are the ultimate side dish — crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and seasoned to perfection. These thinly sliced potatoes cook in a fraction of the time compared to oven-roasted versions and require far less oil, making them a cleaner, quicker option that still satisfies every crunchy craving.
Whether you want a fast weeknight side, a healthier alternative to chips, or a fun appetizer for dipping, these air fryer potatoes are versatile, customizable, and incredibly addictive. Best of all? You only need a handful of pantry ingredients and about 15 minutes.
Ingredients Overview
This recipe is all about simple ingredients with big payoff in flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients
- Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet work best. Yukon Golds are creamier, while Russets get extra crispy. Thin, uniform slices help with even cooking.
- Olive Oil: Just a light coating helps crisp the edges and adds flavor. Avocado oil also works well for high-heat air frying.
- Salt & Pepper: The base seasoning. Sea salt or kosher salt provides the best flavor.
- Garlic Powder & Paprika: Optional but recommended for savory depth and a touch of smokiness.
Optional Seasonings & Toppings
- Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle during the last 2 minutes of air frying for cheesy flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Try rosemary, thyme, or parsley for garnish.
- Chili Flakes or Cajun Seasoning: For heat and boldness.
- Lemon Zest or Vinegar Splash: Adds brightness and balances richness.
Dipping Sauces
- Garlic aioli
- Sour cream with chives
- Spicy ketchup
- Honey mustard
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Potatoes
Wash and scrub potatoes well (no need to peel unless preferred). Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice potatoes into 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick rounds.
Tip: Try to keep the slices as even as possible for uniform crisping.
2. Soak for Crispiness (Optional but Effective)
Place slices in a bowl of cold water for 15–20 minutes. This removes excess starch and helps with extra crunch.
Drain and pat dry thoroughly with a clean towel or paper towels.
3. Season
Toss potato slices in a bowl with:
- 1–2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
Make sure every slice is evenly coated.
4. Air Fry
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) if needed.
Place slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket — avoid overcrowding. Work in batches if necessary.
Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to avoid burning.
Cook time varies depending on slice thickness and air fryer model. Add 2–3 extra minutes if using thicker slices.
5. Finish & Serve
Remove crispy potatoes from the air fryer and sprinkle with extra salt or Parmesan if desired.
Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces or alongside your main dish.
Tips, Variations & Substitutions
- Super Thin = Super Crispy: Use a mandoline slicer for perfect thin chips.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or cheddar during the last 2 minutes for a cheesy crust.
- Make It Spicy: Add cayenne, chili powder, or Cajun seasoning to the spice mix.
- Use Sweet Potatoes: For a naturally sweet twist — just reduce the heat slightly to prevent burning.
Serving Ideas & Occasions
Air fryer sliced potatoes are perfect for:
- Weeknight Side Dishes: Pair with grilled chicken, burgers, or sandwiches.
- Game Day Snacks: Serve with dips for a crunchy, crowd-pleasing bite.
- Breakfast Potatoes: Add to a breakfast plate with eggs and bacon.
- Meal Prep Bowls: Include in lunch boxes or prep containers for a satisfying carb source.
They’re versatile enough to work with everything from steak dinners to veggie wraps.
Nutritional & Health Notes
Air-fried potatoes offer the crispness of fried food with far less oil — making them a cleaner, lighter option.
Per serving (based on 1 medium potato with 1 tbsp olive oil):
- 160–180 calories
- 4g fat
- 28g carbohydrates
- 3g fiber
- 2–3g protein
Naturally gluten-free, vegetarian, and easy to adapt to most diets.
FAQs
Q1: Do I have to peel the potatoes?
Nope! The skin adds texture and nutrients. Just scrub well and slice thinly. Peel only if preferred.
Q2: Why soak the potatoes?
Soaking removes excess starch, which helps prevent sogginess and improves crispiness. It’s optional but recommended.
Q3: Can I make these ahead of time?
They’re best fresh, but you can prep the slices ahead and store them in water in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Dry and season before air frying.
Q4: Can I stack the slices in the air fryer?
Try to keep them in a single layer for maximum crisp. A little overlap is fine, but overcrowding leads to uneven cooking.
Q5: What’s the best potato to use?
Yukon Golds for creaminess and golden color. Russets for extra crunch. Red potatoes also work but stay softer.
Q6: Can I reheat leftovers?
Yes! Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving — they’ll turn soft.
Q7: Can I use frozen potato slices?
Fresh is best for this recipe, but thawed frozen slices can work — just dry them thoroughly and adjust cooking time.
PrintHomemade Potatoes: Crispy Air Fryer Slices
Crispy, golden air fryer sliced potatoes seasoned with garlic, paprika, and sea salt — ready in under 15 minutes for the perfect quick side or snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 2-3 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 medium Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes
- 1–2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
Instructions
- Wash and thinly slice potatoes (1/8–1/4 inch thick). Optional: soak in cold water for 15–20 minutes.
- Drain, pat dry, and toss with olive oil and seasonings.
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F. Place slices in a single layer in the basket.
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway. Cook until golden and crisp.
- Serve hot with optional toppings or dips.
Notes
- Add Parmesan cheese during last 2 minutes for a cheesy variation.
- Use sweet potatoes or spice blends for variation.
- Best served fresh but can be reheated in the air fryer.