Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Butter Sliced Potatoes

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Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Butter Sliced Potatoes

Introduction

Crispy sliced potatoes cooked in the air fryer are a perfect side dish that delivers golden edges, a tender interior, and rich garlic butter flavor. This recipe takes inspiration from Hasselback-style potatoes but simplifies the process for air frying. The result is evenly cooked potatoes with crisp surfaces and buttery, herb-infused layers in every bite.

These potatoes pair beautifully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, fish, or vegetarian main dishes. They are also impressive enough to serve at holiday meals or dinner parties, yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 pounds small to medium Yukon Gold or baby potatoes
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley or Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary

Optional Additions

  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • Red pepper flakes for heat
  • Lemon zest for brightness

Equipment Needed

  • Air fryer with basket or tray
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Mixing bowl
  • Pastry brush or spoon
  • Tongs

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

  1. Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly to remove dirt.
  2. Pat dry completely using a clean kitchen towel.
  3. Slice the potatoes into even rounds, approximately ¼-inch thick.
  4. Try to keep slices uniform to ensure even cooking.

Using small potatoes ensures the centers cook fully without burning the outside.

Step 2: Season the Potatoes

  1. Place the potato slices in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Drizzle with olive oil and melted butter.
  3. Add minced garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, dried parsley, and thyme.
  4. Toss thoroughly until every slice is evenly coated.

The combination of olive oil and butter ensures crisp edges while maintaining a rich, savory flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 to 5 minutes.
  2. Lightly grease the basket if needed to prevent sticking.

Preheating helps achieve a crisp exterior immediately upon cooking.

Step 4: Arrange the Potatoes

  1. Arrange the potato slices in the air fryer basket standing upright or slightly overlapping.
  2. Avoid overcrowding to allow proper air circulation.
  3. If necessary, cook in batches for best results.

Spacing is key to achieving crispy surfaces on each slice.

Step 5: Air Fry the Potatoes

  1. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes.
  2. Remove the basket and gently flip or rearrange the slices using tongs.
  3. Return to the air fryer and cook for an additional 10–15 minutes.
  4. Increase temperature to 400°F (205°C) during the last 5 minutes for extra crispness.

Total cooking time may vary depending on potato thickness and air fryer model.

Step 6: Add Optional Cheese

  1. If using Parmesan, sprinkle it evenly over the potatoes during the last 3–5 minutes of cooking.
  2. Allow it to melt and form a golden crust.

Cheese adds depth and a slightly nutty finish.

Step 7: Final Garnish

  1. Remove potatoes from the air fryer.
  2. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or herbs.
  3. Season lightly with additional salt if needed.
  4. Serve immediately while hot and crisp.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve alongside grilled steak, roasted chicken, or baked fish.
  • Pair with garlic aioli, sour cream, or ranch dip.
  • Use as a base for loaded potatoes with cheese, bacon, and green onions.
  • Serve with eggs for a hearty breakfast or brunch.

Storage and Reheating

Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

  • Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 5–7 minutes.
  • Avoid microwaving, as it softens the crispy texture.

Variations

Herb Butter Potatoes

  • Replace dried herbs with fresh rosemary, thyme, and chives.

Spicy Potatoes

  • Add cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for heat.

Lemon Garlic Potatoes

  • Add lemon zest and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Vegan Version

  • Replace butter with vegan butter or additional olive oil.

Tips for Perfect Results

  1. Always dry potatoes thoroughly to promote crisping.
  2. Avoid stacking slices too tightly.
  3. Shake or turn potatoes halfway through cooking.
  4. Use Yukon Gold or baby potatoes for the best texture.
  5. Adjust seasoning after cooking for balance.

Texture and Flavor Profile

These potatoes have crisp, golden-brown edges with a soft, fluffy interior. The garlic butter penetrates each layer, while herbs add aromatic depth. The air fryer creates a texture similar to oven-roasted potatoes in less time and with less oil.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overcrowding the basket, which leads to steaming instead of crisping.
  • Using too much oil, causing soggy potatoes.
  • Skipping the flip halfway through cooking.
  • Cutting uneven slices that cook inconsistently.

Conclusion

Crispy air fryer garlic butter sliced potatoes are a versatile, flavorful side dish that delivers restaurant-quality results at home. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe produces beautifully golden potatoes that are crisp on the outside and tender inside. Perfect for everyday meals or special occasions, these potatoes are guaranteed to become a repeat favorite.

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