Air-Fryer Scalloped Potatoes: A Quick, Crispy Delight!

Scalloped potatoes are a classic side dish that is typically baked in an oven. However, cooking scalloped potatoes in an air fryer offers several advantages. Not only does it result in a quicker cooking time, but it also provides a more energy-efficient option by targeting heat directly at the dish. To cook scalloped potatoes in an air fryer, it is important to thinly slice the potatoes to ensure even cooking and layering. The potatoes are then layered with a creamy sauce, which can be made with a combination of butter, flour, milk, and cheese. The dish is cooked in the air fryer until the potatoes are tender and the top layer is golden brown.

Potato varieties for scalloped potatoes

Yes, you can cook scalloped potatoes in an air fryer. The key to success is to slice the potatoes thinly and evenly to ensure they cook through.

Now, let's talk about the types of potatoes that are best for scalloped potatoes. The variety of potato you choose can make a difference in the outcome of your dish. Here are some popular options:

Russet Potatoes

Russet potatoes are a popular choice for scalloped potatoes due to their starchy nature, which helps thicken the sauce and lends a creamy texture to the dish. They cook up tender and delicious, making them an excellent option for this recipe.

Yukon Gold Potatoes

Yukon Gold potatoes are another highly recommended variety for scalloped potatoes. They have a buttery flavour and a creamy texture. While they are not as starchy as russet potatoes, Yukon Golds hold their shape better during cooking. This variety is a good choice if you want your scalloped potatoes to have a more defined shape after baking.

Gold, White, or Similar Varieties

Potatoes like gold or white potatoes are also suitable for scalloped potatoes. These varieties tend to be more starchy, which can help thicken the sauce. They will also cook up tender and tasty.

Red Potatoes

While red potatoes are not the ideal choice for scalloped potatoes, some recipes do suggest using them. Red potatoes have a waxy flesh, which can make them harder to cook down to a tender texture. However, they do have thin skins, so you don't need to peel them, and they will hold their shape.

In summary, when choosing potatoes for scalloped potatoes, opt for varieties like russet, Yukon Gold, gold, or white potatoes. These types of potatoes will give you the best results in terms of texture and flavour. Avoid waxy varieties like red potatoes if possible, as they may not yield the desired tenderness.

How to cut potatoes for even cooking

To cut potatoes for even cooking, it is important to make uniform slices. Here is a step-by-step guide:

First, wash the potatoes under running water to remove any surface dirt. You can peel the potatoes if you prefer, but keeping the skin on is healthier as it preserves the nutrients in the potato, such as vitamin C, iron, and potassium.

Next, use a sharp knife to cut the potatoes into slices of your desired thickness. The thickness of the slices will depend on the final shape you want to achieve. For example, if you want small cubes, cut the potato into thin slices, and if you want large cubes, cut thicker slices. Place the slices cut-side down and cut again lengthwise into the same width.

Now, hold the stack of slices together and rotate it a quarter turn (90 degrees). Make the final cuts in the opposite direction of your previous cuts, ensuring they are the same width. You will now have uniform potato cubes. If you are making fries, keep the stack of slices together and cut them into thin sticks.

For scalloped potatoes, it is important to cut the potatoes into thin, even slices. This will ensure that they cook evenly in the air fryer. Russet, gold, white, or Yukon Gold potatoes are good options as they have a creamy texture and will cook tender.

The importance of preheating the air fryer

Preheating your air fryer is a crucial step in ensuring your food is cooked thoroughly and efficiently. While it may not be necessary for all dishes, preheating is particularly beneficial for certain foods and cooking methods. Here are a few reasons why preheating your air fryer is important:

• Thorough Cooking: Preheating ensures that your food is cooked evenly and thoroughly. When the air fryer reaches the desired temperature, it maintains that heat throughout the cooking process, ensuring consistent results. This is especially important for dishes like scalloped potatoes, where you want to achieve a tender texture and a golden, crispy top layer.
• Reduced Cooking Time: Preheating your air fryer can significantly reduce the overall cooking time. Since the appliance is already at the desired temperature, it can cook your food faster, making it a convenient option for quick meals. This is also helpful when cooking multiple batches, as it maintains a consistent temperature between batches.
• Improved Texture and Appearance: Preheating can enhance the texture and appearance of your dishes. For example, it can help achieve a crispy and crunchy texture in fried or breaded foods, such as chicken tenders or fries. The initial high heat creates a searing effect, browning the exterior of the food without drying out the interior.
• Consistency in Baking: For baked goods that require a good rise, such as bread, biscuits, muffins, or cakes, preheating is essential. The initial heat from a preheated air fryer helps with oven spring, allowing more heat to be transferred to the dough during the critical first few minutes of baking. This results in even browning and a better overall texture.
• Food Safety: Preheating can also be important for food safety, especially when cooking dishes with specific temperature requirements, such as meat or eggs. By preheating your air fryer, you ensure that your food reaches and maintains the necessary temperature to eliminate harmful bacteria.
• Crispness and Sizzle: Some cooks prefer preheating their air fryers to achieve a sizzling sound and a crisp exterior as soon as the food is placed inside. This initial blast of heat can enhance the sensory experience of cooking and add to the appeal of the final dish.

In summary, preheating your air fryer can improve cooking efficiency, enhance the texture and appearance of your dishes, and ensure food safety. While it may not be necessary for all recipes, preheating can elevate your cooking experience and the overall quality of your air-fried dishes.

The ideal sauce for scalloped potatoes

Scalloped potatoes are a classic casserole dish that is often served as a side dish during holidays and gatherings. The creamy sauce is a crucial component of scalloped potatoes, providing moisture and flavour to the dish. The sauce is usually made with a combination of butter, flour, milk, and sometimes heavy cream. Cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan, is often added to create a rich and cheesy flavour.

When making scalloped potatoes, it is important to use the right type of potato. Russet, gold, white, or similar potatoes are recommended as they have a starchy nature that lends well to the creamy texture of the dish. These potatoes will also cook to a tender texture. It is important to slice the potatoes thinly and evenly to ensure even cooking and layering.

To make the sauce, start by melting butter in a skillet or saucepan. Then, sprinkle in flour and whisk to create a roux. Slowly add milk, followed by broth, whisking continuously. For added flavour, you can also add garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook the sauce until it lightly coats the back of a spoon, about 2 to 3 minutes.

Once the sauce is ready, assemble the casserole by layering half the potatoes and onions in a baking dish. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, onions, sauce, and cheese. Cover the dish and bake at 400°F for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 35 to 40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is browned.

Let the scalloped potatoes cool for about 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken and ensures a creamier texture. Enjoy your cheesy, creamy, and comforting scalloped potatoes!

Reheating scalloped potatoes in an air fryer

When reheating scalloped potatoes, it is important that they are already cooked through before reheating. This is because the thin slices of potato used in scalloped potatoes cook quickly and may burn if reheated for too long. Therefore, it is best to err on the side of caution and reheat in short bursts, checking frequently, until you find the ideal timing for your air fryer.

Additionally, it is worth noting that some sources recommend reheating scalloped potatoes in the oven, as this yields better results. However, this process may take longer, and the air fryer is a more energy-efficient option.

Overall, reheating scalloped potatoes in an air fryer is a convenient and quick way to enjoy this delicious side dish.

Frequently asked questions