Accordion Potatoes Air Fryer: The Crispy Side Dish You Can Make in Minutes

What are accordion potatoes, and why is the air fryer the best way to make them?

Accordion potatoes, also known as Hasselback potatoes, are a simple yet impressive side dish that involves making thin slices across a whole potato, without slicing all the way through. This creates a fan-like effect that allows for maximum crispy edges while keeping the inside soft and fluffy. While traditionally cooked in the oven, the air fryer has emerged as the ultimate tool for achieving perfectly cooked accordion potatoes every time.

The circulating hot air in an air fryer creates a consistent, high-heat environment that results in incredibly crispy potatoes in a fraction of the time compared to traditional oven baking. Plus, you’ll use less oil, making it a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor.

Ready to elevate your side dish game? Let’s dive into how to make the best accordion potatoes in your air fryer!

How can I make crispy accordion potatoes in an air fryer?

Making accordion potatoes in the air fryer is incredibly easy, even for beginner cooks. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and a step-by-step guide to get those crispy potatoes on your table:

What You’ll Need:

• Russet Potatoes: Their starchy interior and oval shape make them ideal for accordion potatoes.
• Olive Oil or Cooking Spray: A light coating helps with crispiness.
• Seasonings: Get creative! Salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, rosemary, and thyme are all excellent choices.

Now that you’ve got your ingredients, let’s talk about the simple steps involved in creating this delicious side dish:

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Prep the Potatoes: Wash and scrub your russet potatoes thoroughly. Pat them dry with a paper towel. To make slicing easier and prevent cutting all the way through, place a chopstick on either side of the potato. Using a sharp knife, make thin slices across the potato, stopping just before you hit the chopsticks.

2. Season Generously: Drizzle the potatoes with olive oil or lightly coat them with cooking spray. Gently toss to ensure even coverage. Sprinkle on your desired seasonings, making sure to get in between the slices.

Get ready for crispy perfection! We’re almost at the finish line.

1. Air Fry to Perfection: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket, ensuring they’re not overcrowded. Air fry for 25-35 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of your potatoes and your air fryer’s wattage.

2. Serve and Enjoy! Once cooked, carefully remove the potatoes from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. Top with your favorite garnishes like fresh herbs, grated Parmesan cheese, or a dollop of sour cream.

What are some tips and tricks for the best accordion potatoes?

While making accordion potatoes in the air fryer is fairly straightforward, I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way that guarantee perfectly cooked, flavorful potatoes every time:

• Soaking for Extra Crispiness: For ultra-crispy potatoes, soak them in cold water for 30 minutes before slicing and seasoning. This helps remove excess starch, promoting browning.

• Even Cooking is Key: Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. If necessary, cook the potatoes in batches to ensure they cook evenly.

• Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment! Accordion potatoes are incredibly versatile! Play around with different seasonings and toppings to discover your favorite combinations.

Let’s explore some creative variations to take your accordion potatoes to the next level.

What are some creative variations of accordion potatoes?

Beyond the basic recipe, the beauty of accordion potatoes lies in their adaptability. Here are some mouthwatering variations to inspire your culinary creativity:

• Cheesy Bacon Ranch: Sprinkle cooked and crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Top with a dollop of ranch dressing for a flavor explosion.

• Garlic Parmesan Herb: Toss the potatoes with minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and a blend of your favorite dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme for an Italian-inspired twist.

These are just a few ideas to get you started!

Can I make accordion potatoes ahead of time?

You can absolutely prep your accordion potatoes ahead of time! Slice the potatoes and store them in a bowl of cold water in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook them, pat them dry thoroughly and proceed with the recipe as directed.

Now you have all the tools you need to impress your family and friends with this simple yet impressive side dish.

Final Thoughts

Accordion potatoes made in the air fryer are a game-changer – crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and bursting with flavor. Their ease of preparation, endless customization options, and impressive presentation make them a winner for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. So why not give them a try? You might just discover your new favorite way to enjoy potatoes!