Introduction: The Magic of Sliced Air Fryer Potatoes
Who doesn’t love crispy potatoes? Whether you call them potato rounds, potato chips, or thick-cut fries, sliced potatoes cooked in an air fryer are a perfect side dish or snack. They’re wonderfully crispy, yet they use far less oil than deep-fried versions, making them healthier without sacrificing flavor.
In this recipe, you’ll learn how to make perfectly crisped potato slices, along with tips on:
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Choosing the best potatoes
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Slicing techniques
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Seasoning blends
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Cooking times for ultimate crispiness
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Fun variations
🛒 Ingredients
For 3–4 servings:
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3 medium Russet potatoes (or Yukon Golds for softer insides)
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1½ tablespoons olive oil
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional but adds depth)
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½ teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon dried parsley or rosemary (optional for herb flavor)
Optional garnish:
Fresh parsley
Grated Parmesan cheese
Chili flakes
🔪 Equipment You’ll Need
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Air fryer (any model; basket or tray-style)
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Sharp knife or mandoline slicer (for even slices)
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Mixing bowl
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Paper towels or clean kitchen cloth
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Cooking tongs or spatula
🥔 Step 1: Choose and Prepare the Potatoes
Best Potatoes for Crispiness:
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Russet Potatoes: High starch content, perfect for crispy slices.
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Yukon Gold: Creamier and buttery—ideal if you like a softer interior with a crisp edge.
Avoid waxy potatoes (like red or new potatoes) if crispiness is your goal.
Wash, Scrub, and Slice:
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Wash the potatoes thoroughly.
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Leave the skin on for texture and nutrients, or peel them if preferred.
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Slice into ¼-inch rounds—thinner slices get crispier but cook faster.
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Use a mandoline for consistency.
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Too thick = soft centers; too thin = chips.
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💦 Step 2: Soak for Extra Crispiness (Optional but Recommended)
To get rid of excess starch (which can make them soggy):
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Place slices in a bowl of cold water.
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Let them soak for 20–30 minutes.
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Drain and dry thoroughly using a clean towel or paper towels.
Drying is essential—moisture = steam, not crisp.
🧂 Step 3: Seasoning the Potatoes
In a large bowl:
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Add the potato slices.
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Drizzle with 1½ tablespoons olive oil.
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Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and herbs.
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Toss gently with your hands or tongs until evenly coated.
🍳 Tip: You can also use avocado oil for higher smoke point.
🍽 Step 4: Preheat and Load the Air Fryer
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Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) – this helps kick-start crisping.
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Arrange the slices in a single layer in the basket or tray.
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Do not overcrowd – air circulation is key to crispiness.
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If needed, cook in batches.
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⏲️ Step 5: Air Fry the Sliced Potatoes
Cooking Instructions:
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Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.
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Flip the slices with tongs or shake the basket.
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Cook for another 5–10 minutes, depending on thickness and desired crispiness.
Total Time: ~15–20 minutes
✅ Done when: Edges are golden brown and crispy, and centers are tender.
🧀 Step 6: Optional Garnishes & Serving
Once cooked:
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Sprinkle with fresh parsley or rosemary
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Add a dusting of Parmesan cheese for an umami hit
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Add chili flakes for spice lovers
Delicious Dipping Sauces:
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Garlic aioli
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Ranch dressing
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Spicy ketchup
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Chipotle mayo
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Honey mustard
🔄 Recipe Variations to Try
1. Loaded Potato Slices
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After air frying, top with:
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Shredded cheese
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Crumbled bacon
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Green onions
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Sour cream
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Return to air fryer for 2 minutes to melt cheese.
2. Sweet Potato Slices
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Replace with sweet potatoes
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Use cinnamon + paprika + salt for a sweet-savory profile
3. Spicy Cajun Potato Rounds
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Add 1 tsp Cajun seasoning blend for bold flavor
4. Lemon Herb Potato Slices
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Squeeze lemon juice before serving + fresh dill or thyme
📦 Storing and Reheating
Storing:
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Let cool completely
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Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
Reheating:
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Reheat in air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 4–6 minutes
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Regains crispiness better than microwaving
👨🍳 Pro Tips for the Best Results
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Slice uniformly to ensure even cooking
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Always preheat your air fryer for better texture
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Don’t overcrowd—air needs to circulate!
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Flip or shake halfway through
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Add a splash more oil halfway through for extra golden edges if needed
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Finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for a gourmet touch
🧠 Nutritional Info (Per Serving, Approximate)
| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~180 |
| Fat | 7g |
| Carbs | 28g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium (varies) | 200–300 mg |
Healthier than traditional fried chips with all the crunch!
💬 Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use baby potatoes?
Yes! Slice them thinly and follow the same instructions—bonus points for cuteness.
Q: Can I skip oil?
Yes, but they won’t be as crispy. Use a light spray of oil instead if reducing fat.
Q: Why are mine soggy?
Most likely causes:
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Didn’t dry slices well enough
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Overcrowded basket
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Didn’t flip halfway
🥂 Serving Ideas
Crispy sliced potatoes pair beautifully with:
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Burgers or grilled sandwiches
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Breakfast eggs and toast
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Grilled chicken or steak
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Wraps and paninis
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On a snack board with dips
🏁 Final Thoughts
These Crispy Air Fryer Sliced Potatoes are quick, addictive, and incredibly easy to customize. Whether you’re making them as a side dish for dinner or serving them with dips at a party, they’ll become a repeat recipe in your kitchen. The best part? You get deep-fried flavor with a fraction of the oil—and in a fraction of the time.
