Crispy & Tender: Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes Recipe

Introduction

Hasselback potatoes are one of those dishes that marry elegance with simplicity. Named after the Hasselbacken restaurant in Stockholm, Sweden, these beautifully sliced potatoes have gained international fame for their accordion-like shape, crisp outer layers, and tender, flavorful insides. The classic oven-baked version is time-consuming, but with the advent of the air fryer, preparing this gourmet-worthy side dish has never been easier—or quicker.

Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes are a game-changer. Thanks to the rapid hot air circulation, they develop a crispy exterior with golden edges while keeping the inside fluffy and soft, achieving the perfect textural balance. The signature thin slices help absorb all the buttery, garlicky goodness, making each bite better than the last.

This recipe is not just about taste—it’s also a stunning visual centerpiece. Whether served at a holiday feast, a cozy dinner for two, or a casual weekday meal, Hasselback potatoes turn a humble spud into a showstopper. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, your air fryer can work magic in under an hour.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn:

• How to choose the right potatoes

• The best slicing technique for consistent results

• Tricks to ensure the perfect crisp-tender finish

• Variations and toppings to customize your creation

Let’s dive into the delicious world of Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes.

Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes Recipe

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 4 medium Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes (about 200-250g each)

• 3 tablespoons melted butter

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 3 garlic cloves, finely minced

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)

• Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

• Grated Parmesan cheese or shredded cheddar (optional topping)

🔄 Optional Fillings for Between the Slices:

• Thin slices of garlic

• Small bits of cheese

• Bacon pieces

🔪 Equipment Needed

• Air fryer (any model with at least a 4-quart capacity)

• Sharp knife or Hasselback slicing rack

• Cutting board

• Pastry brush (for butter/oil application)

• Small mixing bowl

⏱️ Prep and Cook Time

• Preparation time: 15 minutes

• Cooking time: 30–40 minutes

• Total time: ~55 minutes

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Choose the Right Potato

The two best potato types for Hasselback preparation are:

• Yukon Gold: Creamy and buttery flavor with medium starch content.

• Russet Potatoes: Fluffy inside and crispier exterior due to higher starch levels.

Make sure the potatoes are medium-sized and uniform in shape for even cooking.

Tip: Wash and scrub your potatoes thoroughly. Hasselback potatoes are often made with the skins on for texture and flavor.

Step 2: Slice the Potatoes

This is the most important and delicate part of the process.

1. Place each potato between two wooden chopsticks or wooden spoons on a cutting board. This ensures you don’t slice all the way through.

2. Using a sharp knife, slice the potato into thin slices (about ⅛ inch or 3mm thick). Stop just before you reach the bottom—thanks to the chopsticks, you won’t cut all the way through.

🎯 Goal: Create thin, even slices without detaching the potato base.

Step 3: Prepare the Flavor Mixture

In a small bowl:

• Combine the melted butter, olive oil, and minced garlic.

• Add salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or rosemary if desired.

Mix well.

Step 4: Brush and Season the Potatoes

1. Use a pastry brush to coat the potatoes generously with the butter-oil mixture.

2. Carefully open up the slices slightly with your fingers or the brush to let the mixture seep between the layers.

3. Reserve some of the mixture for basting halfway through cooking.

Step 5: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 180°C (350°F) and let it preheat for 3–5 minutes.

Preheating ensures that the potatoes start cooking immediately and promotes an even, golden crust.

Step 6: Air Fry the Potatoes

1. Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket, cut side up. Don’t overcrowd; air circulation is key for crisping.

2. Air fry at 180°C (350°F) for 25 minutes.

3. Pause and baste the potatoes with the remaining butter mixture, especially between the slices.

4. Increase the temperature to 200°C (390°F) and air fry for another 8–12 minutes until the potatoes are crisp on the outside and tender on the inside.

⏲️ Total Cooking Time: 35–40 minutes, depending on size and your air fryer model.

Step 7: Add Toppings (Optional)

During the last 2–3 minutes of cooking:

• Sprinkle Parmesan or shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

• Add crumbled cooked bacon bits for an indulgent twist.

Let cook until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Remove the potatoes carefully using tongs or a spatula.

Garnish with:

• Fresh chopped parsley

• A final pinch of salt

• A drizzle of melted butter if desired

Serve hot and enjoy!

Serving Ideas

These potatoes are extremely versatile. You can serve them as:

• A side dish with steak, roast chicken, or grilled fish.

• A vegetarian main, topped with cheese and herbs.

• A party appetizer, cut into smaller baby Hasselback potatoes.

• A brunch item, served with eggs and sour cream.

Tips for Success

• Don’t skip preheating the air fryer. It helps crisp the edges from the start.

• Use similar-sized potatoes for even cooking.

• The thinner the slices, the crispier the exterior will be.

• Brush the butter-oil mix generously between the slices.

• If the slices are closing during cooking, baste halfway to keep them open and crispy.

Flavor Variations

1. Cheesy Hasselback Potatoes

• Alternate slices with cheddar or mozzarella cheese.

• Top with shredded Parmesan before serving.

2. Garlic Parmesan Hasselback

• Add more garlic and fresh Parmesan.

• Garnish with a parsley and garlic butter drizzle.

3. Spicy Tex-Mex Style

• Season with cumin, paprika, and chili powder.

• Top with salsa, sour cream, and jalapeños.

4. Bacon and Chive Hasselback

• Insert cooked bacon strips between the slices.

• Top with sour cream and chives.

5. Vegan Option

• Swap butter for vegan margarine or more olive oil.

• Skip cheese and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste.

Nutritional Information (Per Medium Potato)

Note: Values may vary depending on toppings and potato variety.

Storing and Reheating

Storage:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Reheat in the air fryer at 180°C (350°F) for 5–7 minutes until hot and crispy.

• Avoid microwaving if you want to retain crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

❓ Can I make Hasselback potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can slice and brush them with butter, then store covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before air frying.

❓ What if I cut too deep?

If you slice through the potato, don’t worry! You can still cook it—just handle it gently, and place it seam side down to hold it together.

❓ Can I use sweet potatoes?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes work beautifully, though they cook slightly faster and may be softer.

❓ Can I freeze Hasselback potatoes?

It’s not recommended. Their texture suffers after freezing. However, leftover cooked slices can be diced and pan-fried or added to frittatas.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes are a brilliant way to turn a simple spud into a crispy, golden, flavor-packed dish that looks as amazing as it tastes. Whether you keep it traditional with butter and garlic or get creative with cheese, bacon, and herbs, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The air fryer not only simplifies the process but also enhances the texture, delivering perfect results in less time than a conventional oven.

This dish is proof that with the right technique and a bit of creativity, the humble potato can truly shine. And thanks to the air fryer, anyone—no matter their cooking skill—can recreate restaurant-style Hasselback potatoes from the comfort of their kitchen.

So grab your potatoes, heat up the air fryer, and get slicing. Once you try these Hasselback beauties, they’re sure to become a staple on your table.