Air-Frying Hasselback Potatoes: A Quick, Crispy Treat

Air fryer hasselback potatoes are a tasty and quick side dish with a crispy exterior and a tender interior. They are easy to make and can be cooked in an air fryer in 20 minutes or less. The potatoes are sliced thinly, leaving a small portion of the bottom intact, and then brushed with butter or oil and seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic. They are then placed in the air fryer and cooked until golden brown and crispy. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the potatoes and the model of the air fryer.

How to cut Hasselback potatoes

To cut Hasselback potatoes, start by washing and drying the potatoes. You can peel the potatoes if you prefer, but this is optional. Place a potato on a cutting board and cut a very thin slice lengthwise from the flattest side so that it lays cut-side down and sits evenly without rolling.

To ensure you don't cut all the way through the potato, you can place two wooden chopsticks or a large serving spoon alongside the potato, using them as a guide for when to stop slicing. You can also purchase a special hasselback potato cutter. Continue making slices across the entire length of the potato, leaving around 1/8" to 1/4" between slices. Make sure the slices are thin and even, and that the bottom of the potato remains intact. Repeat this process with the remaining potatoes.

Seasoning and toppings

Seasonings and toppings can make or break your hasselback potatoes. The options are endless, but here are some ideas to get you started:

Seasonings

• Garlic: Fresh, minced garlic is a popular choice, but garlic powder is also a great option, especially when mixed with butter or oil.
• Salt and Pepper: Kosher salt and black pepper are classic seasonings that can enhance the flavour of your potatoes.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley can add a boost of flavour. You can also use dried herbs like basil, oregano, and parsley.
• Spices: Smoked paprika, chilli powder, and cayenne pepper can add a kick of heat to your potatoes.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs and spices like basil, oregano, and parsley can give your potatoes an Italian twist.
• Other Seasonings: You can also experiment with other seasonings like ranch, Mexican seasoning, Cajun seasoning, or any other blend that suits your taste.

Toppings

• Butter: Melted butter can be brushed over the potatoes for a rich, moist, and golden finish. Use non-dairy butter for a vegan option.
• Cheese: Grated cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan cheese can be sprinkled between the slices for a gooey, cheesy finish.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream can add a creamy, tangy element to your potatoes.
• Bacon Bits: Crispy bacon bits can add a salty, savoury crunch to your potatoes.
• Chives: Fresh chives not only add flavour but also a pop of colour to your dish.
• Pesto: Brushing the potatoes with almond, kale, or sun-dried tomato pesto can add a burst of flavour. Top with Parmesan cheese and red chilli flakes for an extra kick.
• Other Toppings: You can also get creative with other toppings like green onions, sliced cheese, fresh herbs, ranch dressing, or even reach dressing.

Remember, the beauty of hasselback potatoes is that you can make them your own. Don't be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and toppings to find your perfect combination!

Cooking times and temperatures

The cooking time and temperature for hasselback potatoes in an air fryer depend on the size of the potatoes and the model of the air fryer. For example, larger potatoes will need a slightly longer cooking time.

As a general rule, air fryers should be preheated to 350 degrees F (175-180 degrees C). At this temperature, the cooking time is around 30 minutes. However, some sources suggest cooking at a higher temperature of 400°F for 30 minutes, or 375°F for 25 to 35 minutes.

For smaller potatoes, cooking times can be as short as 15 minutes, or 20 minutes for larger potatoes. It is important to keep an eye on the potatoes and adjust the cooking time accordingly, as overcooking can result in dry potatoes.

Potato varieties

You can use just about any potato variety for making hasselback potatoes. However, some varieties are better than others. For example, Yukon Golds are great for their creamy texture, and the fist-sized potatoes are usually just the right portion size for one person. Russets are also a good option, as they have plenty of starch, which helps them get nice and crispy on the outside while staying tender and soft on the inside. If you're using Russets, keep in mind that they are larger potatoes, so you'll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Sweet potatoes and small red potatoes also make delicious hasselback potatoes, but again, keep an eye on the portion sizes. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even try using tiny new potatoes. The key to getting crispy hasselback potatoes is to slice them thinly and evenly, leaving a small portion of the bottom intact so that the slices remain attached. This can be tricky, but there are some handy tools and techniques to help you get the perfect slice.

One technique is to use a sharp knife to make deep vertical cuts about 1/8-inch apart, or you can use a hasselback potato cutter if you have one. To guide your slices and prevent cutting too deeply, you can place chopsticks or the handles of wooden spoons on either side of the potato while you cut. Another tip is to slice the potato lengthwise from the flattest side first, then lay the potato cut-side down on a cutting board with chopsticks along the top and bottom edges before slicing across.

No matter which potato variety you choose, the key to success is getting those crispy edges and creamy middles that hasselback potatoes are known for. Brushing the potatoes with butter, oil, or even duck fat will help achieve that perfect crispiness, and don't forget to season with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you desire. So, go ahead and experiment with different potato varieties and find your favourite!

Storing and reheating

To reheat the potatoes, you can use an oven, a microwave, or an air fryer. If you want the potatoes to be crispy, using an oven is the best method. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the potatoes on it, ensuring they are evenly spaced out. Drizzle some olive oil or melted butter over the potatoes for extra crispiness. Bake the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are heated all the way through. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning or overcooking.

If you are short on time, you can use a microwave to reheat the potatoes. Place the potatoes in a microwavable dish and sprinkle some water or broth over them to add moisture. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a microwave-safe lid and microwave on high for about 2-3 minutes. Then, pause and stir the potatoes gently before microwaving again.

You can also reheat hasselback potatoes in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the potatoes in the basket. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy.

Frequently asked questions