🥔 Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes with Cheese – Crispy, Cheesy & Irresistible
Few side dishes strike the perfect balance of crispy on the outside and soft on the inside quite like Hasselback Potatoes. When cooked in the air fryer, these potatoes become even more irresistible—golden, buttery slices that fan out beautifully, ready to be filled with melty Colby Jack cheese. Add a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chives, and you’ve got a restaurant-worthy side dish right at home. 😍
This recipe is quick, easy, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re serving it alongside steak, roasted chicken, or enjoying it as a snack, these air fryer Hasselback potatoes are guaranteed to impress. In this guide, we’ll cover the step-by-step recipe, expert chef advice, nutrition facts, FAQs, and variations to make this dish your own. Let’s get started! 👩🍳
🥘 Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 russet potatoes
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 tablespoon garlic paste or minced garlic
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 3 to 5 slices Colby Jack cheese (adjust to your cheesiness preference 🧀)
- Optional toppings: sour cream, fresh chives
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Potatoes
Cut a thin slice from the bottom of each potato to create a flat base. Place the potatoes between two chopsticks and slice into ¼-inch thick slices, stopping just before cutting through. The chopsticks act as guards to prevent slicing all the way down.
2. Create the Potato Base
Place the bottom slice of potato that was cut off into the air fryer basket, then set the potato on top. This helps fan open the slices during cooking.
3. Make the Garlic Butter
In a bowl, mix melted butter, garlic paste, kosher salt, and black pepper. Carefully separate the potato slices slightly and brush the mixture generously over and in between slices.
4. Air Fry – First Stage
Sprinkle additional salt and pepper on top. Air fry at 370°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
5. Brush & Air Fry Again
Brush with remaining garlic butter and cook another 20–25 minutes at 370°F until crispy and golden brown.
6. Add the Cheese
Cut Colby Jack cheese slices into quarters. Insert cheese pieces between potato slices (every slice or every other slice). Air fry for 1–2 minutes, just until cheese melts.
7. Garnish & Serve
Top with sour cream and chopped chives. Serve hot as a side dish or indulgent snack. 🥳
👨🍳 Expert Chef Tips
- Chef Gordon Ramsay: “Always use starchy potatoes like russet or Yukon gold for Hasselback—they crisp beautifully.”
- Bobby Flay: “Experiment with different cheeses—sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or even Gruyère take it up a notch.”
- Ina Garten: “Don’t skip the garlic butter—it’s what infuses every slice with flavor.”
- Ree Drummond: “These make the perfect game-day snack. Serve with ranch or chipotle dip for extra fun.”
💡 Health Benefits & Safety Notes
- Potatoes are rich in potassium, vitamin C, and fiber.
- Air frying reduces oil use, making this dish lighter than traditional roasted potatoes.
- For a lower-fat option, use olive oil instead of butter and reduced-fat cheese.
- Always check potatoes are cooked through with a fork—they should be tender inside.
🥦 Nutrition Facts (Per Potato with Cheese)
| Nutrient | Amount | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal | Provides sustained energy |
| Protein | 12 g | Supports muscle repair |
| Carbohydrates | 42 g | Main energy source |
| Fat | 18 g | Essential for cell function |
| Fiber | 4 g | Improves digestion |
| Calcium | 220 mg | Strengthens bones |
| Vitamin C | 14 mg | Boosts immune system |
📌 10 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet?
Yes! Sweet potatoes make a slightly sweeter version and pair well with cinnamon butter or feta cheese.
2. Do I have to peel the potatoes?
No, the skin crisps up beautifully and adds texture and nutrients.
3. Can I make these in the oven instead of an air fryer?
Yes. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 50–60 minutes, brushing with garlic butter halfway through.
4. How do I keep cheese from burning?
Add cheese only in the last 1–2 minutes of cooking.
5. What dipping sauces go well?
Ranch, chipotle mayo, sour cream, or even salsa verde.
6. Can I prep potatoes ahead of time?
Yes. Slice and soak in cold water to prevent browning. Dry well before cooking.
7. Can I use different cheeses?
Yes! Try mozzarella for stretchiness, blue cheese for bold flavor, or parmesan for a crispy top.
8. Why are my potatoes not fanning out?
Be sure to place them on the bottom slice cut earlier—it helps spread slices while cooking.
9. Can I make them vegan?
Yes. Use vegan butter and dairy-free cheese alternatives.
10. How long do leftovers last?
Up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat in the air fryer for best crispiness.
🔗 Related Articles
✨ Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes with Cheese are the ultimate side dish—crispy, garlicky, buttery, and stuffed with gooey cheese. They’re easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to wow guests. Serve them for holidays, dinner parties, or weeknight meals—you’ll never look at plain baked potatoes the same way again. 🥔🧀
