Air Fryer Sliced Potatoes are a revelation in easy, healthy, and delicious side dishes, offering the satisfying crispiness of fried potatoes with a fraction of the oil and effort. This recipe masterfully leverages the intense, circulating heat of the air fryer to transform simple potato rounds into a golden-brown, crispy-edged, and tender-centered treat that is incredibly versatile. The process begins with a crucial step of slicing and soaking the potatoes, which removes excess surface starch and is the secret to achieving that perfect crispy exterior without sogginess. A light coating of olive oil and a simple yet robust seasoning blend of garlic granules and dried herbs ensures every bite is packed with savory flavor, while the hot air circulation works its magic, cooking the slices evenly and creating an irresistible texture that rivals any deep-fried alternative.
The true brilliance of this recipe lies in its simplicity and its ability to deliver a crowd-pleasing side dish or snack with minimal active cooking time. Unlike oven-roasting, which can take much longer, the air fryer delivers these crispy potatoes in under 20 minutes, making them an ideal last-minute addition to any weeknight meal. They are a blank canvas for customization; you can experiment with different spice blends like smoked paprika, cayenne for heat, or rosemary and thyme for a more herbal note. Whether served alongside a juicy burger, a roasted chicken, or simply enjoyed on their own with a dipping sauce, Air Fryer Sliced Potatoes are a guaranteed hit that proves healthy eating doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor or that beloved satisfying crunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Healthier “Fried” Potatoes: Achieves a wonderfully crispy texture using just a tablespoon of oil, making it a guilt-free alternative to deep-frying.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish, with very little hands-on prep time.
- Incredibly Versatile: The perfect side for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and easily adaptable with your favorite herbs and spices.
- Foolproof Method: The soaking and drying step ensures perfectly crisp results every single time.
Ingredients:
- 4 large Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried mixed herbs (such as an Italian blend)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Scrub the potatoes clean under cold running water. You can peel them or leave the skins on for extra texture and nutrients. Using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer for uniformity, slice the potatoes into ½ cm (approximately ¼-inch) thick rounds.
Step 2: Soak and Dry
Place the sliced potatoes in a large bowl and cover them with cold water. Let them soak for at least 20-30 minutes. This step is crucial for removing excess starch, which leads to a crispier result. Drain the potatoes thoroughly and then pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Removing all surface moisture is key.
Step 3: Season the Slices
Transfer the dried potato slices to a large, dry bowl. Drizzle with the olive oil and sprinkle with the garlic powder, dried herbs, and salt. Toss vigorously with your hands until every slice is evenly and lightly coated.
Step 4: Air Fry
Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) if your model requires it. Arrange the potato slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t overlapping too much. You may need to cook in batches. Air fry for 18-20 minutes, pausing to shake the basket or toss the slices halfway through the cooking time for even browning.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
The potatoes are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the edges and can be easily pierced with a fork. If you prefer them extra crispy, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the potato slices from the air fryer and season with an extra pinch of salt if desired. Serve immediately while they are hot and at their crispiest.
Tips:
- Dry Thoroughly: This is the most important step for crispiness. After soaking, take the time to pat every slice completely dry.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Air circulation is vital. Cooking in batches is better than stacking the slices, which will steam them instead of frying them.
- Uniform Slicing: Try to slice the potatoes to the same thickness so they all cook at the same rate.
- Customize Your Seasoning: Feel free to use your favorite spice blends. Smoked paprika, onion powder, or a Cajun seasoning mix are all excellent options.
Storage Options:
- Best Served Immediately: These potatoes are at their absolute peak straight out of the air fryer.
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness. The microwave will make them soft.
