Air Fryer Potato Slices

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15-18 minutes

• Total Time: Under 30 minutes

• Course: Side Dish, Snack

• Cuisine: American

• Diet: Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free

• Servings: 2

• Calories: Approximately 180 per serving

Equipment

• Air Fryer

• Sharp Knife or Mandoline Slicer (for even slices)

• Large Mixing Bowl

• Kitchen Towel or Paper Towels

Ingredients

• 2 medium Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes (about 1 lb / 450g)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika is excellent for a deeper flavor)

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• Optional Garnishes: Freshly chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese (omit for vegan), or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Thoroughly scrub the potatoes clean under cold running water to remove any dirt. You can peel them if you prefer, but leaving the skin on adds texture, nutrients, and rustic appeal. Using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer for consistent results, slice the potatoes into ¼-inch thick rounds. Uniformity is key here for even cooking!

Step 2: Soak and Dry (The Secret to Crispiness!)

This is the most crucial step for achieving the ultimate crisp factor. Place the potato slices in a large bowl and cover them with cold water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour. This process draws out the excess starch, which prevents the slices from sticking together and helps them become incredibly crispy.

After soaking, drain the water and pat the potato slices completely dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. They must be very dry to ensure they crisp up instead of steam in the air fryer.

Step 3: Season the Slices

Return the dried potato slices to the dry mixing bowl. Drizzle with the tablespoon of oil and toss to coat evenly. In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the oiled potatoes and toss again until every slice is well-coated.

Step 4: Air Frying to Perfection

Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for 3 minutes. This gives the potatoes a hot start for better browning.

Arrange the potato slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. It’s essential not to overcrowd them; cook in batches if necessary. Air fry for 15-18 minutes, pausing to shake the basket or flip the slices halfway through. Cook until the slices are golden brown and crispy on the edges.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

Transfer the crispy potato slices to a plate. Taste and season with an extra pinch of salt if desired. Garnish with fresh parsley or Parmesan cheese for an extra touch. These are best enjoyed hot and fresh from the air fryer!

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Tips for the Best Air Fryer Potato Slices

• Potato Choice: Russet potatoes yield a fluffier interior, while Yukon Golds offer a creamier, buttery texture. Both work wonderfully.

• Don’t Skip Soaking: Forgetting to soak the potatoes will result in a gummy, less crispy texture. If you’re short on time, a quick 10-minute soak is better than nothing.

• Dry Thoroughly: Any residual moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Be diligent with the towel-drying step.

• Avoid Overcrowding: Giving the potato slices space allows for hot air to circulate freely, ensuring all sides get crispy.

• Customize Your Seasoning: Feel free to experiment! Add cayenne pepper for heat, Italian seasoning for an herbal note, or simply stick to salt and rosemary for a classic flavor.

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

This nutritional breakdown is an estimate based on the specific ingredients listed and may vary depending on the exact products you use.

• Servings: 2

• Serving Size: Approximately half of the recipe

Note: The nutrition information is calculated using 1 tablespoon of olive oil. A significant amount of this oil remains in the air fryer basket and on the parchment liner, meaning the actual consumed fat and calories are likely lower. For the most accurate nutritional data, consider using a dedicated nutrition calculator with your specific brands.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make these in the oven?
Yes! Arrange the prepared and seasoned slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store any cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3-4 minutes to restore their crispiness. The microwave will make them soft.

Why are my potato slices not crispy?
The most common reasons are not soaking the potatoes, not drying them well enough, or overcrowding the air fryer basket. Ensure you follow each step for the best results.