Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes

Name: Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Tools; Potato Scrubber; Air Fryer; Hasselback Cutter Tool; 3-4 large potatoes washed, scrubbed, and patted dry; 1 1/2 tablespoons oil; 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese; Salt and Pepper; Seasonings optional

Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes are a delicious side dish with crispy, golden edges and a soft, fluffy centre. Thin slices allow butter, olive oil, and seasonings to flavour every bite, while the air fryer cooks them beautifully with less oil than traditional oven-roasted potatoes. They’re easy to prepare and pair perfectly with chicken, steak, fish, or your favourite vegetarian meal.

How to Make Hasselback Potatoes in the Air Fryer

Making Hasselback potatoes in the air fryer is simple. The secret is to slice the potatoes thinly without cutting all the way through, allowing the layers to fan out as they cook.

Ingredients

4 medium potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or Maris Piper
2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried rosemary or thyme
½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley or chives, for serving

Directions

Prepare the potatoes. Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly, then pat them dry. You can peel them if you prefer, but leaving the skins on helps create a crispier texture.
Slice the potatoes. Place each potato between two wooden spoons or chopsticks. Make thin slices about ⅛ inch (3 mm) apart, cutting down towards the spoons so you don’t slice completely through the potato. The bottom should remain intact.
Season the potatoes. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil or melted butter with the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, rosemary, thyme, and paprika. Gently brush the mixture over each potato, making sure some of it gets between the slices.
Preheat the air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C) for about 3 minutes, if your model recommends preheating.
Arrange the potatoes. Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving a little space between them so the hot air can circulate.
Air fry. Cook at 360°F (180°C) for 25–35 minutes, depending on the size and type of potato. Brush with a little more oil or butter halfway through cooking. If the potatoes are browning too quickly, reduce the temperature slightly.
Check for doneness. The edges should be golden and crisp, and a knife should slide easily into the centre. Larger potatoes may need another 5–10 minutes.
Add Parmesan (optional). Sprinkle the potatoes with grated Parmesan during the final 3–5 minutes of cooking, allowing it to melt and turn lightly golden.
Serve. Carefully remove the potatoes from the basket, garnish with fresh parsley or chives, and serve immediately while the edges are crispy.

FAQs: Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes

What are Hasselback potatoes?

Hasselback potatoes are potatoes cut into thin, closely spaced slices that stop just before the bottom. The slices fan out during cooking, creating crispy edges and a tender centre. They originated in Sweden and are a popular side dish.

What is the best temperature for Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes?

A temperature of 360°F (180°C) works well for most air fryers. It allows the potatoes to cook through while developing golden, crispy edges. You can increase the temperature slightly near the end if you want extra crispiness, but watch them carefully.

How long do Hasselback potatoes take in the air fryer?

Medium potatoes usually take around 25–35 minutes at 360°F (180°C). Smaller potatoes may cook faster, while larger or denser potatoes may need 40 minutes or more. Always check that the centre is tender before serving.

How do I stop myself from cutting all the way through the potatoes?

Place each potato between two wooden spoons, chopsticks, or the handles of two wooden utensils before slicing. These act as barriers and help prevent your knife from reaching the bottom.

Why aren’t my Hasselback potatoes crispy?

The potatoes may be overcrowded, insufficiently coated with oil, or not cooked long enough. Leave space between them in the basket, brush oil between the slices, and add a few extra minutes if needed. Drying the potatoes before seasoning also helps.

Do I need to soak the potatoes before cooking?

No, soaking is not necessary. For this recipe, simply wash and dry the potatoes thoroughly before slicing. If you choose to soak them, dry them very well afterwards to avoid excess moisture.

Can I use butter instead of olive oil?

Yes. Melted butter gives the potatoes a rich flavour, while olive oil helps the edges crisp nicely. You can also use a combination of both. If using butter, keep an eye on the potatoes because the milk solids can brown quickly.

Can I add cheese to Hasselback potatoes?

Absolutely! Parmesan, mature Cheddar, or Gruyère all work well. Add grated cheese during the last 3–5 minutes of cooking so it melts without burning. You can also finish the potatoes with sour cream, crispy bacon pieces, or chopped chives.

How should I store leftover Hasselback potatoes?

Allow the potatoes to cool, then place them in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours. They will generally keep for up to 3–4 days when refrigerated properly.

How do I reheat Hasselback potatoes in the air fryer?

Reheat them at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 4–8 minutes, depending on their size, until heated through and crisp again. Check them frequently to prevent the edges from becoming too dark.

Can I prepare Hasselback potatoes ahead of time?

Yes. You can wash and slice the potatoes a few hours ahead. Keep them submerged in cold water in the refrigerator to help prevent browning, then drain and dry them thoroughly before seasoning and cooking. For the best texture, cook them just before serving.

What can I serve with Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes?

They pair well with roast chicken, grilled steak, salmon, pork chops, burgers, or roasted vegetables. For a simple finishing touch, serve them with garlic butter, sour cream, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.