These crispy air fryer hasselback potatoes are the ultimate side dish for any meal. With their perfectly crisp exterior and tender interior, they’re a showstopper that will elevate any dinner. Simply seasoned with salt, pepper, and fresh parsley, they complement almost any main dish. From steak and chicken to fish or even vegetarian meals. This simple yet versatile side dish is perfect for all occasions. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, preparing a special holiday meal, or just enjoying a cosy weeknight meal at home.
One of the best things about this recipe is its customization. While the classic version with just salt, pepper, and parsley is delicious, you can easily modify the seasoning to suit your preferences. Garlic and butter pair wonderfully with hasselback potatoes, adding rich, savoury flavours. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano, to match your preferene. For a little extra indulgence, sprinkle cheese on top during the last few minutes of cooking for a melty, golden finish.
This recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly quick, thanks to the efficiency of the air fryer. Hasselback potatoes typically take a long time to bake in the oven, but the air fryer cuts that time in half, allowing you to have these crispy delights ready in less than an hour. Plus, the air-fryer ensures they cook to perfection – crispier than traditional roasted potatoes – without the need for excessive oil. If you have leftover potatoes, don’t worry! They can easily be reheated in the air-fryer in under five minutes, maintaining their crispy texture.
Whether you’re using fresh potatoes or leftovers, these air fryer hasselback potatoes are sure to become a go-to side dish in your house.
PREP 10 minutes
COOK 40 minutes
KIT you will need an air fryer
Ingredients for air fryer hasselback potatoes
3 medium potatoes. washed and sliced (russet potatoes work really well)
Grated parmesan cheese (the amount will depend on the size of the potatoes and the number of cuts)
Fresh parsley, finely chopped
Light olive oil spray
Salt and pepper
Method
First, I made sure to wash the potatoes thoroughly under cold water, scrubbing them well since I planned to leave the skins on. The skin not only adds great texture but also holds a lot of flavour. Once clean, I dried them off and carefully cut slits into each potato, making the classic Hasselback shape. I spaced the cuts just a few millimetres apart, taking care not to slice all the way through the potatoes. It’s really important to leave about half an inch (or roughly a centimetre) uncut at the bottom so the potato stays together in one piece while cooking.
Next, I gave the potatoes a light spray of vegetable oil. Making sure to get it into the slits as much as possible. Then, I seasoned them generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. I placed them directly into the air fryer drawer. Leaving the crisper plates in to help with airflow. Try to space the potatoes out evenly. This helps the hot air circulate properly and ensures they cook evenly.
I cooked the potatoes low and slow at 160°C for about 40 minutes. I checked on them every 10 to 15 minutes. And halfway through, I gave them another light spray of olive oil to help get the skins extra crispy and golden.
Once done, I carefully removed the hot potatoes and immediately sprinkled over some fresh-grated Parmesan cheese while they were still steaming. A little bit of freshly chopped parsley adds a nice touch of colour and a fresh, herby flavour.
Personally, I love serving these baked Hasselback potatoes with a rich, sweet red onion balsamic gravy on the side. It’s the perfect combination of crispy, savoury, and tangy.
Tips for Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes
1. Choose the right potatoes
For the best results, go with waxy varieties like Yukon Gold or Charlotte potatoes. These types hold their shape better during cooking and offer a creamy, buttery texture inside. Avoid overly starchy potatoes, which can fall apart or dry out.
2. Slice carefully
The signature look of Hasselback potatoes comes from thin, even slices across the top. Use a sharp knife, and to avoid cutting all the way through, place the potato between two wooden spoons or chopsticks. This makes it easy to slice down to the right depth without splitting the potato.
3. Parboil first (optional)
Parboiling the potatoes for 5 to 7 minutes before air frying helps speed up the cooking process and ensures the insides are soft and fully cooked. Drain well and let them steam dry before seasoning.
4. Season generously
Brush with melted butter or olive oil, making sure it gets between the slices. Then season with salt, pepper, and herbs such as rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, or smoked paprika for added flavour.
5. Add cheese or toppings
To elevate the dish, top the potatoes with grated cheese during the last 2 to 3 minutes of cooking for a gooey, crispy finish. You can also sprinkle bacon bits or chives for extra flavour.
6. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer
Make sure the potatoes have enough space for air to circulate around them. If you’re cooking multiple potatoes, do it in batches for the crispiest results.
7. Preheat your air fryer
Preheating your air fryer for a few minutes first ensures that the potatoes start cooking right away, giving them a crispy exterior.
8. Flip halfway through
Flip the potatoes halfway through cooking to ensure an even crisping and browning on all sides.
Similar recipes
If you love these easy air fryer hasselback potatoes, you might also like my air fryer roast potatoes, the air fryer French fries or the air fryer sweet potato recipe. The air fryer is just so perfect for cooking all kinds of potatoe dishes.
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