Air Fryer Cheesy Hasselback Potatoes

Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and loaded with gooey melted cheese—these Air Fryer Cheesy Hasselback Potatoes are pure comfort food magic! With perfectly sliced potatoes air-fried to golden perfection, this easy side dish looks fancy but takes minimal effort.

Ingredients

4 medium russet or Yukon gold potatoes
2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika (optional)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or chives (for garnish)

How To Make Air Fryer Cheesy Hasselback Potatoes

Prepare the Potatoes:
Wash and scrub potatoes thoroughly. Place each potato between two chopsticks and slice thin cuts (about ⅛ inch apart) without cutting all the way through.
Season:
Brush the potatoes with olive oil or butter, making sure it gets between the slices. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Air Fry:
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the potatoes in the basket and cook for 20 minutes.
Add Cheese:
Carefully open the air fryer, sprinkle shredded cheese between the potato slices, and air fry for another 5–7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
Garnish with parsley or chives and serve hot!

You Must Know

Slice evenly to ensure the potatoes cook through and crisp properly.
Soaking the sliced potatoes in cold water for 10–15 minutes before air frying helps remove excess starch, giving extra crispiness.
Always use a sharp knife for clean cuts and avoid slicing all the way through.

Topping Variations

Loaded Style: Add crispy bacon bits, sour cream, and green onions.
Spicy Twist: Sprinkle chili flakes or drizzle hot sauce before serving.
Garlic-Parmesan: Use melted butter mixed with minced garlic and top with Parmesan cheese.
Italian Flavor: Add mozzarella and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning.

Make It A Meal

Serve your cheesy Hasselback potatoes with:

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders or Steak
Grilled Salmon or Shrimp
A fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables
Creamy coleslaw or roasted veggies for a full, hearty plate

Pro Tips

Use medium-sized potatoes for even cooking.
If your air fryer is small, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Brush extra oil halfway through cooking for a deeper golden crust.
Try mixing different cheeses like cheddar, gouda, and mozzarella for a flavor boost.

Recipe FAQs

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can slice and season the potatoes ahead, then air fry just before serving.

Q: What kind of potatoes work best?
A: Russet potatoes get crispier, while Yukon Golds offer a creamier texture.

Q: Can I use vegan cheese?
A: Absolutely—use your favorite plant-based cheese for a dairy-free version.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5 minutes to regain crispiness.