Air Fryer Potato Slices are one of those recipes that prove you don’t need a deep fryer to get perfectly crispy potatoes. With just a few basic ingredients and your air fryer, you can make golden, crunchy potato slices that are soft inside and irresistible outside. They’re perfect as a snack, a side dish, or even a light meal with a dipping sauce.
What makes this recipe special is how simple it is. Potatoes, oil, and a few seasonings turn into something that feels like restaurant-style fries, but healthier and easier. No messy oil, no long waiting time, and no complicated steps.
This is the kind of recipe you’ll make again and again once you try it.
Ingredients
Serves 3–4 people
- 3 medium potatoes (about 600 g / 1.3 lb), washed and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
Optional for serving
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Ketchup, garlic sauce, or yogurt dip
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Potatoes
Wash the potatoes well. You can peel them if you want, but the skin adds extra texture and flavor. Slice them into thin, even rounds about 3–4 mm thick. Try to keep the slices the same size so they cook evenly.
Step 2 – Soak to Remove Starch
Place the potato slices in a bowl of cold water and let them soak for 20–30 minutes. This removes excess starch and helps the potatoes get extra crispy in the air fryer.
Step 3 – Dry Completely
Drain the potatoes and pat them very dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This step is very important. Wet potatoes will steam instead of crisp.
Step 4 – Season the Potatoes
Put the dried potato slices in a large bowl. Add olive oil, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, and chili powder if using. Toss well with your hands until every slice is lightly coated.
Step 5 – Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 190°C (375°F) for about 3 minutes. This helps the potatoes start crisping immediately.
Step 6 – Air Fry in Batches
Arrange the potato slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd them. Cook in batches if needed.
Air fry for 10 minutes, then shake the basket or flip the slices.
Step 7 – Finish Cooking
Air fry for another 8–10 minutes until the slices are golden brown and crispy on the edges. Cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer and slice thickness.
Step 8 – Final Touch
Once done, remove the potatoes and sprinkle with a little extra salt if needed. Add Parmesan or parsley if you like.
Serving Ideas
Air Fryer Potato Slices are incredibly versatile. Serve them as a side with burgers, grilled chicken, or steak. They’re also perfect as a snack with dipping sauces like ketchup, garlic aioli, spicy mayo, or yogurt-lemon sauce.
You can even top them with melted cheese and serve them as loaded potato slices.
Why This Recipe Works
The secret to perfect air fryer potatoes is removing the starch and keeping everything dry. Soaking the slices and drying them well ensures they get crispy instead of soggy. The hot circulating air in the air fryer cooks them evenly with very little oil, making them healthier than deep-fried potatoes.
The seasonings add depth and flavor, turning simple potatoes into something exciting and addictive.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Potato Slices are proof that simple food can be the most satisfying. They’re crispy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for your family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe never disappoints.
Once you master this basic version, you can play with flavors forever—BBQ spice, lemon pepper, curry powder, or even cinnamon sugar for a sweet version.
Your air fryer just found its new favorite recipe.
Q&A – Air Fryer Potato Slices
Q: Can I use sweet potatoes?
Yes. Sweet potato slices work great, but they cook a little faster and will be slightly softer.
Q: Do I really need to soak the potatoes?
It’s not required, but it makes them much crispier. If you skip it, they’ll still be good, just not as crunchy.
Q: Can I make them ahead of time?
They’re best fresh, but you can reheat them in the air fryer for 3–4 minutes.
Q: Can I store leftovers?
Yes. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat in the air fryer, not the microwave.
Q: Can I use less oil?
Yes. You can reduce to 1 tablespoon, but a little oil helps with browning and flavor