Hasselback Potatoes In The Air Fryer: A Quick, Easy Treat

Yes, you can make hasselback potatoes in an air fryer. This cooking method gives you a quicker version of the classic Swedish side dish, with a crisp exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. The air fryer is also said to give more consistent results compared to baking.

How to get the perfect level of crispiness

To get the perfect level of crispiness, there are a few key steps to follow when making hasselback potatoes in an air fryer.

Firstly, it is important to choose the right type of potatoes. Russet potatoes are often recommended as they have a higher starch content, which helps to achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the interior soft and fluffy. However, other types such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes can also be used, but the edges may not get as crispy.

Before cutting the potatoes, it is recommended to wash and dry them thoroughly. When slicing, use a sharp knife to make cuts that are about 1/4-inch to 1/8-inch thick, leaving a small portion of the bottom intact so that the slices remain connected. This can be achieved by using a wooden spoon or chopsticks as a guide to prevent the knife from cutting all the way through.

Once sliced, it is important to soak the potatoes in cold water to remove excess starch. This step helps to ensure crispiness and prevent the slices from sticking together. After soaking, dry the potatoes thoroughly before placing them in the air fryer.

Brush the potatoes with a mixture of melted butter, oil, and seasonings such as garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This adds flavour and moisture to the potatoes. Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded, as this can lead to uneven cooking.

Cook the potatoes in the air fryer at a temperature between 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-30 minutes, depending on the size of the potatoes and your air fryer model. Brush the potatoes with the remaining butter mixture halfway through the cooking process.

Finally, for an extra crispy finish, sprinkle grated cheese such as cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan between the slices during the last few minutes of cooking. This will melt the cheese and give the potatoes an extra crispy and gooey texture.

By following these steps, you can achieve the perfect level of crispiness for your hasselback potatoes in an air fryer.

The best potatoes to use for hasselback potatoes

When choosing a potato type, it is also important to consider the size and shape of the potatoes. Look for potatoes that are around 250g/8oz and have an oval shape rather than a round one. This will allow the potatoes to fan out better, creating crispier edges. If the potatoes are too small, the inside will become too soft before the edges crisp up. Larger potatoes can also be used, but it may be more difficult to cook the inside without burning the edges.

Some specific potato varieties that are well-suited for hasselback potatoes include:

• Sebago (Australia)
• Desiree (Australia)
• Yukon Gold (US)
• Russet (US)
• Maris Piper (UK)
• King Edward (UK)

How to cut the potatoes

Firstly, wash the potatoes and pat them dry. You can peel the potatoes if you prefer, but it is not necessary. Leaving the skin on can add an extra layer of texture and a rustic appearance, as well as an extra crispiness to your potatoes.

Next, you will need a sharp knife. Some recipes suggest using a wooden spoon or chopsticks to help guide your knife and prevent you from cutting all the way through the potato. Place the potato in a wooden spoon and slice into it with the knife, ensuring the cuts go just deep enough. Alternatively, place the potato between two chopping boards, with the top one thinner, and hold it against the edge of the top board as you slice into the potato. You can also use a hasselback potato cutter or slicer if you have one. Make cuts as close together as possible, leaving a small portion of the bottom intact so the knife doesn't go all the way through. The more slices you make, the crispier your potatoes will be!

Finally, soak the sliced potatoes in ice-cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch, which will help achieve the crispiest results. Then, dry the potatoes on paper towels to remove excess water before cooking.

The best toppings for hasselback potatoes

There are many toppings that can be used to enhance the flavour of hasselback potatoes. Here are some ideas:

Herbs and Spices

Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, sage, and parsley can be tucked between the slices or sprinkled on top of the potatoes before serving. They add a warm, earthy flavour to the dish. Dried herbs like thyme or sage can also be used, but fresh herbs are preferred as they have a more subtle flavour that won't overpower the potatoes.

Spices like smoked paprika, black pepper, and chilli powder can be mixed with melted butter and brushed over the potatoes before cooking, or sprinkled on top before serving.

Cheese

Cheese is a popular topping for hasselback potatoes, and for good reason. Sliced or grated cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, or Parmesan cheese can be added between the slices or sprinkled on top during the last few minutes of cooking to melt into a gooey, delicious finish.

Sour Cream

A dollop of sour cream on top of a hasselback potato adds a creamy, tangy contrast to the crispy, buttery potato. It can be added on its own or mixed with herbs and spices for an even more flavourful topping.

Bacon

Bacon is a classic topping for potatoes, and hasselback potatoes are no exception. Crispy bacon bits can be sprinkled on top, or bacon fat can be brushed over the potatoes before cooking to add a savoury, smoky flavour.

Sauces

A variety of sauces can be drizzled over hasselback potatoes to take them to the next level. Pesto, romesco, or Sriracha sauce all pair well with the potatoes and add a fresh, vibrant flavour. For a truly indulgent treat, try an avocado aioli or garlic butter sauce.

Breadcrumbs

For an extra crunchy topping, mix breadcrumbs with herbs and Parmesan cheese and sprinkle over the potatoes before cooking. This adds a two-punch combo of flavour and texture that will elevate your hasselback potatoes to the next level.

Eggs

For a unique and filling twist, try topping your hasselback potatoes with an egg. Cook the egg until the yolk is just barely set, so it drips down between the slices of the potato for a rich and decadent treat.

These are just a few ideas to get you started, but the possibilities for toppings are endless! Get creative and experiment with different combinations to find your favourite way to enjoy hasselback potatoes.

How to reheat hasselback potatoes

Reheating hasselback potatoes in an air fryer is the best way to maintain their coveted crispiness. Place the potatoes back in the air fryer and air fry at 400°F for 3-5 minutes to warm them up.

If you're reheating them in the microwave, do so in 30-second increments. You can also reheat them in the oven, but they won't be as crispy.

• It's best to serve hasselback potatoes right away while hot and crispy.
• You can save leftovers, but they won’t be quite the same when reheated.
• Store air fryer hasselback potatoes wrapped in foil or in an airtight container and refrigerate for 2 to 3 days.
• For best results, leave off any extras—including bacon and cheese—until after reheating.
• If you're making a large batch, cook the potatoes in the air fryer until you get to the step of adding the cheese. Then, cook them in batches with the cheese.

Frequently asked questions