When it comes to effortless, crave-worthy side dishes, air fryer sliced potatoes are in a league of their own. These golden rounds offer the crispy satisfaction of deep-fried potatoes—minus the excess oil and calories. Whether you’re new to air frying or already hooked, this recipe is quick, easy, and beginner-friendly.
In under 20 minutes, you’ll have a batch of hot, crispy sliced potatoes perfect for dipping, snacking, or pairing with a hearty breakfast. They work beautifully as a side for dinner, a game-day snack, or even a base for loaded potato nachos.
For anyone just diving into air fryer recipes for beginners, this one is a must-try. You’ll learn how to prep, season, and crisp your potatoes like a pro—without turning on the oven or deep fryer. All you need is a potato, a few spices, and your trusty air fryer to get started.
Why Use an Air Fryer for Sliced Potatoes?
The air fryer is a game changer for potatoes. It cooks food by circulating hot air at high speeds, which delivers that crispy texture we all love—using very little oil. This makes your sliced potatoes healthier and faster to prepare compared to deep frying or baking.
In terms of efficiency, an air fryer heats up quicker than a conventional oven and uses less energy. While oven-baked potatoes can be dry or uneven, the air fryer gives you crispy edges and tender centers every time. For anyone short on time (or just craving crunchy bites), it’s the ideal kitchen tool.
Best Types of Potatoes to Use
Choosing the right potato can make or break your recipe. Here are the top picks:
-
Russet potatoes: High starch, ideal for crispy slices
-
Yukon Gold: Balanced starch and moisture for buttery texture
-
Red potatoes: Lower starch, great if you prefer creamier bites
Whether you leave the skin on or peel them is up to you. Leaving it on adds texture and nutrients, while peeling offers a smoother bite.
Pro Tips:
-
Starchy potatoes = crispier edges
-
Waxier potatoes (like reds) = creamier insides
Experiment with different types to find your perfect fry style.
How to Slice Potatoes for Air Frying
Uniform slicing is essential for even cooking in the air fryer. Uneven slices will result in some being too crisp or undercooked. Ideally, aim for slices that are ⅛ to ¼ inch thick.
Tools to Use:
-
Mandoline slicer – For fast, evenly thin slices
-
Sharp chef’s knife – Works well with a steady hand
Thinner slices yield crunchier results, while slightly thicker ones provide a soft interior with a crisp shell. Try both to see which texture you prefer!
Pro tip: Always slice against the grain to avoid stringy bites.
Prepping Your Potatoes
To achieve that irresistible crunch, prep is everything. The secret? Soak your sliced potatoes in cold water for 15–30 minutes. This step helps remove excess starch, which prevents them from sticking and promotes crispiness.
After soaking:
-
Rinse the slices under cold water.
-
Pat them completely dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
Dry potatoes = maximum crisp.
Want even softer centers with crispy edges? Parboiling your potato slices for 3–4 minutes before air frying is a pro technique, especially for thicker cuts.
This extra prep might seem like a hassle, but it makes a huge difference in the final texture—giving you crispy outsides and fluffy interiors every time.
Seasoning and Flavor Variations
One of the best things about air fryer sliced potatoes is how easy they are to flavor. From simple sea salt to bold international spices, the options are endless.
Classic Seasoning:
-
Salt & black pepper
-
Garlic powder
-
Paprika
-
Olive oil or cooking spray
Loaded & Herby:
-
Parmesan cheese + Italian herbs
-
Chives or green onions
-
Ranch seasoning blend
Spicy Variations:
-
Cayenne pepper
-
Chili powder
-
Red pepper flakes
International Twists:
-
Za’atar (Middle Eastern)
-
Curry powder (Indian)
-
Taco seasoning (Mexican)
You can create endless combinations to suit your mood or meal.
Dietary-Friendly Options:
-
Vegan – Use olive oil and herbs only
-
Low-carb – Choose turnip or rutabaga as potato alternatives
Advertisement -
Kid-friendly – Use mild spices like cheese powder or ranch
Tip: Add seasonings after patting the potatoes dry, just before air frying for the most flavor impact.
Cooking Instructions: How to Air Fry Sliced Potatoes
Cooking air fryer sliced potatoes is super easy, but there are a few tricks to getting them just right.
Step-by-Step:
Preheat your air fryer (optional but recommended for even crisping). Set it to 375°F–400°F.
Lightly toss the sliced potatoes in oil and your desired seasoning.
Place them in the basket in a single layer. For large batches, cook in batches.
Air fry for 12–18 minutes, flipping or shaking the basket halfway through.
Check for doneness: They should be golden brown and crispy on the edges.
Tip: Thicker slices may need an extra 2–3 minutes of cook time.
Avoid stacking too many slices—air needs room to circulate for that signature crunchy texture.
Tips for Perfectly Crispy Slices
Getting those crispy, golden slices takes a little technique.
Key Tips:
Don’t overcrowd the basket—spread slices out evenly.
Use minimal oil—just a spray or a quick toss is enough.
Cook in a single layer whenever possible.
Flip or shake the basket halfway through for even browning.
If you’re cooking a double batch, use racks or cook in two rounds to avoid steaming. Dry potatoes + hot air + light oil = maximum crunch.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Air fryer sliced potatoes are incredibly versatile and go with just about anything.
Breakfast:
With scrambled eggs or sunny-side-up
Topped with avocado and hot sauce for a breakfast bowl
Lunch & Dinner:
Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or veggie burgers
Add to wraps or salads for crunch
Dips to Try:
Garlic aioli
Sour cream and chives
Ketchup or cheese sauce
Bonus: Use them as a crispy base for loaded nachos or sheet pan appetizers!
Storage and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Here’s how to keep your sliced potatoes tasting fresh.
Storage:
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
Reheating:
Best method: Air fry for 3–5 minutes at 350°F
Microwave: Faster but loses crispiness
Avoid reheating more than once—it can make them rubbery. Recrisping in the air fryer brings back that original crunch with ease.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To get the best results every time, avoid these rookie errors:
Top Mistakes:
Slicing too thick or uneven – results in inconsistent cooking
Skipping the soak – leads to soggy slices
Not drying properly – moisture prevents browning
Overcrowding the fryer basket – causes steaming, not frying
If your potatoes aren’t crispy, it’s usually due to one of the above. Follow the prep steps carefully, and you’ll enjoy perfectly crunchy air fryer potatoes every single time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can you put raw sliced potatoes in an air fryer?
Yes! Just make sure to soak and dry them first for best texture.
How long do sliced potatoes take in the air fryer?
They typically cook in 12–18 minutes, depending on thickness and air fryer model.
Do you need to soak potatoes before air frying?
Soaking helps remove excess starch, leading to crispier results. It’s optional, but highly recommended.
Why are my air fryer potatoes not crispy?
Common causes include too much moisture, overcrowding, or not enough oil.
Can you reheat sliced potatoes in the air fryer?
Absolutely! Just pop them back in for 3–5 minutes at 350°F to restore the crunch.
Air Fryer Sliced Potatoes Recipe
Air Fryer Sliced Potatoes are a quick, crispy, and healthier alternative to traditional fried potatoes. Ready in under 20 minutes, these golden rounds are perfect for breakfast, snacks, or side dishes. With minimal oil and loads of flavor, they’re a go-to recipe for any air fryer lover.Equipment
Air Fryer Mandoline Slicer or Sharp Knife Mixing bowl Tongs or spatula Paper towelsIngredients
- 2 large Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
- 1 tbsp olive oil or cooking spray
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika optional
- Fresh herbs or grated parmesan optional for topping
Instructions
Wash and slice the potatoes into ⅛ to ¼ inch rounds using a mandoline or sharp knife. Soak the slices in cold water for 15–30 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels. Toss with oil and seasonings in a large bowl until evenly coated. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (optional, but helps with even cooking). Arrange slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd. Cook for 12–18 minutes, flipping or shaking the basket halfway through. Check for doneness—they should be golden brown and crispy. Serve hot with your favorite dips or as a side to any meal.Notes
- Soaking the potatoes is optional but strongly recommended for crispiness.
- You can use red potatoes, but they’ll yield a softer texture.
- Add grated parmesan or chili powder in the last 2 minutes for extra flavor.
- For best results, avoid stacking slices and cook in batches if needed.
- Great with dips like garlic aioli, ketchup, or cheese sauce.