When it comes to quick, delicious, and versatile side dishes, few things can beat crispy potato slices. Whether you’re craving a healthier alternative to potato chips or want a flavorful side for dinner, air frying is one of the best methods to achieve golden-brown, crunchy perfection without using too much oil. These crispy air fryer potato slices are tender on the inside, crispy on the outside, and packed with flavor. The best part? They require minimal ingredients, cook quickly, and are a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults.
In this recipe, we’ll go step-by-step through preparation, seasoning, and air frying, as well as provide tips for achieving restaurant-quality results right at home.
Ingredients
To make crispy air fryer potato slices, you’ll need:
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2–3 medium russet or Yukon Gold potatoes (russets give a crispier texture, Yukon Golds are creamier inside)
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2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil for a lighter option)
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika adds depth)
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
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Optional: Parmesan cheese, chili flakes, or a dash of cayenne for extra heat
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. You can peel them if you prefer, but leaving the skin on adds flavor, nutrients, and texture. Slice the potatoes into ¼-inch thick rounds—this thickness ensures even cooking while still allowing them to crisp up nicely. Try to keep the slices uniform so that they all cook at the same rate.
Step 2: Soak and Dry
One key to extra-crispy slices is removing excess starch. Place the potato slices in a large bowl of cold water and let them soak for at least 20–30 minutes. This step prevents the potatoes from sticking together and helps achieve that irresistible crispiness.
After soaking, drain the slices and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness, so make sure they are completely dry before seasoning.
Step 3: Season the Potatoes
In a large mixing bowl, toss the potato slices with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure each slice is well coated. The oil helps the seasoning stick and promotes browning in the air fryer.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes. Preheating ensures the potatoes start cooking immediately, which helps create a crispy crust.
Step 5: Arrange and Cook
Place the potato slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Overcrowding the basket will cause uneven cooking, so you may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
Air fry the slices at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes, as cooking times can vary depending on the thickness of the slices and the power of your air fryer.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the potato slices are golden brown and crispy, transfer them to a serving plate. Sprinkle with fresh parsley, chives, or a dusting of Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, garlic aioli, or ketchup.
Serving Ideas
These crispy air fryer potato slices are incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them as:
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A snack: Pair them with sour cream dip or salsa for a light yet satisfying treat.
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A side dish: They complement grilled chicken, steak, burgers, or fish.
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A party appetizer: Serve them in a basket with a variety of dipping sauces for guests.
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A breakfast side: They’re perfect alongside eggs, bacon, or avocado toast.
Tips for Perfect Crispy Potato Slices
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Choose the right potato: Russet potatoes are starchy and crisp up beautifully, while Yukon Golds offer a creamier inside. Both work well, but russets give more of a chip-like crunch.
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Don’t skip soaking: This step removes excess starch, which is crucial for avoiding soggy slices.
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Dry thoroughly: Even a little water left on the potatoes will cause them to steam instead of crisp.
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Flip halfway: Flipping ensures both sides are evenly browned.
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Adjust seasoning to taste: You can go classic with salt and pepper, or experiment with Cajun spices, Italian herbs, or even a sprinkle of curry powder for unique flavors.
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Cook in batches: Air fryers work best when food is spread out; avoid piling the slices.
