Air Fryer Cheese Chips: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Air fryers are a convenient and versatile kitchen appliance that can cook a wide range of foods, from salmon to tofu and even cheese chips. Air fryer cheese chips are a delicious snack that can be made in under 20 minutes and are a healthier alternative to deep-fried chips. They are also a great way to satisfy your junk food cravings without breaking the bank. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to make cheese chips in an air fryer, as well as some tips and tricks to ensure perfect results every time.

Choosing the right cheese

The cheese you choose for your air-fried cheese chips will determine the flavour, texture, and overall vibe of the dish. A firm, low-moisture cheese is the best option for high-quality, crunchy cheese chips. Cheeses like Parmesan, cheddar, and Gruyère are great choices for ultra-crunchy chips. On the other hand, fresh cheeses like mozzarella, feta, or ricotta, which contain more moisture, may not be suitable for achieving a proper crunch.

If you're making classic British cheesy chips, a combination of mozzarella and cheddar is recommended. The mozzarella provides the desired cheese pull, while the cheddar adds flavour. It is important to note that pre-grated mozzarella is preferred over fresh mozzarella, as it is coated in potato starch and not as moist. This will prevent the chips from becoming soggy.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can experiment with different blends of cheese. Just make sure to choose a cheese that melts well. For a vegan option, simply swap out the dairy cheese for plant-based alternatives.

Additionally, seasoning the cheese before adding it to the chips can enhance the flavour. You can add table salt, black pepper, herbs, paprika, garlic, and cumin to create a well-seasoned, tasty treat.

Preparing the air fryer

Before you begin, it's important to note that different air fryers have different requirements. Some air fryers require preheating, while others do not. If your air fryer does require preheating, be sure to check the food a few minutes earlier than the recipe suggests, as it may cook faster.

To prepare your air fryer for making cheese chips, start by lining the air fryer basket with parchment paper. This will help to avoid a sticky mess and make cleanup easier. You can also use an air fryer liner, which can save time and be easier to wash than the basket. However, keep in mind that using a liner may increase the cooking time.

Once your air fryer is lined, you can add the cheese. For cheese chips, it is recommended to use a firm, low-moisture cheese such as Parmesan, cheddar, or Gruyère. Fresh cheeses like mozzarella, feta, or ricotta may not be suitable as they contain more moisture and may not achieve the desired crunch.

If you are using shredded cheese, arrange the shreds closely together and lay them flat in the air fryer. Avoid stacking the cheese too high to prevent uneven cooking. For sliced cheese, simply place the slices in the air fryer basket.

Cooking times and temperatures

When making cheese chips in an air fryer, the cooking time and temperature will depend on the type of cheese you use. Harder cheeses like Parmesan, Grana Padano, Romano, Gruyère, or Asiago tend to be less greasy and can withstand higher temperatures. Softer cheeses like mozzarella, feta, or ricotta have more moisture content and may not achieve the desired crispiness.

If you're using sliced cheese, a general guideline is to cook the cheese chips at 350° F for 5 minutes. If you're using grated cheese, the cooking time may be slightly shorter, around 3 to 4 minutes at 375° F. However, it's important to monitor the cheese chips during cooking, as air fryers can vary in temperature and cooking time. You may need to adjust the temperature or cooking time slightly based on your air fryer's settings and performance.

Additionally, the thickness of the cheese will impact the cooking time. For grated cheese, it's recommended to make the mounds thinner for crispier cheese chips. For sliced cheese, you can cut the cheese into squares to create crackers.

When cooking, it's important to use parchment paper or a silicone mat to line the air fryer basket or tray. This prevents the cheese from melting through and creates an easy removal process. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure proper air circulation and even cooking.

Adding toppings and seasonings

The toppings and seasonings you choose for your cheese chips can elevate this snack to the next level. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Herbs and Spices

Add some garden-fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme for an aromatic flair, or try everything bagel seasoning for a bold, savoury kick. Don't be afraid to experiment with other herbs and spices that you enjoy!

Nuts and Seeds

Incorporate sunflower seeds, slivered almonds, or pine nuts to add texture and nutty flavours. These can also be a great way to add some extra crunch to your cheesy chips.

Dips

Pair your cheese chips with dips like salsa, guacamole, spinach-artichoke dip, or a simple marinara sauce. This can add some extra flavour and moisture to your snack.

Meat

For a heartier option, add some meat on top of your cheesy chips. Something like a well-crumbled slice of corned beef can take your cheese chips to the next level.

Other Toppings

Feel free to get creative and add any other toppings you desire! You can include vegetables like sliced red onions or spices like garlic powder to give your cheese chips a unique twist.

Remember, the beauty of making cheese chips in an air fryer is that you can customise them to your liking. So, don't be afraid to experiment with different toppings and seasonings to find your perfect combination!

Storing and reheating your cheese chips

Storing your cheese chips

If you have leftover cheese chips, it's important to store them properly to ensure they stay fresh and safe to eat. Here are some tips:

• Cool the cheese chips as quickly as possible.
• Place them in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Do not seal the container completely. A loose cover will help prevent bacteria growth.
• Consume the leftover cheese chips within 2-4 days for food safety.

Reheating your cheese chips

Now, for reheating your cheese chips, you have a few options:

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C. Spread the chips on a baking tray in a single layer with no overlap. There is no need to add extra oil. Place the tray in the oven and bake for about 5 minutes. Sprinkle with salt and let them cool a bit before serving.
• Microwave: Although not ideal, you can also reheat your cheese chips in the microwave if you don't mind them a little soggy. Place them in a microwave-safe bowl and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave in short bursts of 30 seconds to avoid overcooking. Let the chips cool a bit before serving.
• Air fryer: Place the chips in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for about 5 minutes at 180°C or until hot and crispy. Pause halfway through and shake the basket to ensure even cooking. Remove the basket and let the chips cool slightly before serving.

So, there you have it! You can enjoy your leftover cheese chips by following these simple storage and reheating instructions.

Frequently asked questions