Air Fryer Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Try This Buttery Air Fryer Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Today

Crispy edges and creamy centers define these delectable air fryer scalloped potatoes that promise a mouthwatering side dish.

Slicing potatoes becomes a breeze with sharp kitchen tools and a bit of patience.

Layers of thinly cut potatoes nestled between rich cheese and herbs create an irresistible combination.

Dairy and seasoning blend perfectly in this quick alternative to traditional oven-baked versions.

Comfort food takes on a lighter approach when cooked in the air fryer, reducing unnecessary oil.

Cheesy, golden-brown goodness awaits you with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

You’ll want to make this recipe again and again for its simplicity and delicious results.

Best Sides For Air Fryer Scalloped Potatoes

  • Elevate Flavor Pairings for Crispy Air Fryer Scalloped Potatoes
  • Savor Complementary Protein: Roasted herb-crusted chicken or glazed honey ham perfectly balances the creamy potato's richness, creating a harmonious main course combination.
  • Wine Wonderland: Select a crisp Chardonnay or buttery Pinot Noir to enhance the cheesy, creamy potato layers, cutting through the dish's decadent texture with elegant acidity.
  • Veggie Vibrance: Roasted green beans with toasted almonds or fresh asparagus spears provide a light, crunchy contrast to the potatoes' smooth, indulgent profile, adding nutritional brightness to the plate.

Store Scalloped Potatoes The Smart Way

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, ensuring the container is tightly sealed to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Transfer cooled potatoes to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Seal completely, removing excess air. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label the container with the date to track storage time.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Place potatoes in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes, adding a splash of cream to restore moisture if needed. Remove foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp the top.

FAQs On Air Fryer Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

  • Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, you can use Yukon Gold, Russet, or red potatoes. Just make sure to slice them uniformly for even cooking.

  • Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?

No, you can leave the skin on for added nutrition and texture. Just wash them thoroughly before slicing.

  • What if I don't have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce might be slightly less rich and creamy.

  • Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the butter or use a plant-based butter alternative, and ensure your cheese is vegetarian-friendly.

Why Scalloped Potatoes In The Air Fryer Turn Out So Crispy

Why Scalloped Potatoes In The Air Fryer Turn Out So Crispy
  • Savor Speedy Cooking: Air fryer technology cuts down cooking time dramatically, letting you enjoy crispy, creamy potatoes without long waiting periods.
  • Create Minimal Mess: With just one dish and simple layering technique, this recipe minimizes kitchen cleanup and reduces complicated cooking steps.
  • Customize with Ease: Flexible recipe allows adding or removing ingredients like onions, adjusting cheese types, and accommodating different dietary preferences without compromising taste.
  • Deliver Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Classic scalloped potato flavors combined with modern air fryer crispiness make this dish universally appealing for family dinners, potlucks, and casual gatherings.

Ingredients For Air Fryer Scalloped Potatoes

Main Ingredients:

Potato Ingredients:
  • Potatoes: Starchy root vegetables that form the base of this creamy and crispy dish.
Dairy Ingredients:
  • Heavy Cream: Creates a rich and luxurious sauce that coats the potatoes.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Provides a sharp and melty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps create a golden, crispy top.
Seasoning and Flavor Ingredients:
  • Garlic, Salt, Black Pepper: Classic seasonings that bring depth and warmth to the potato dish.
  • Paprika: Optional spice that adds a subtle smoky flavor and beautiful color.
Optional Ingredient:
  • Onions: Adds a subtle sweetness and extra layer of flavor to the scalloped potatoes.

Steps To Cook Scalloped Potatoes In The Air Fryer

Step 1: Preheat The Air Fryer

Heat your air fryer to 350°F. A proper temperature ensures even cooking and helps create that golden, crispy exterior we all love.

Step 2: Create Creamy Flavor Base

Whisk together in a bowl:
  • Heavy cream
  • Minced garlic
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Paprika (optional)

Blend ingredients until smooth, creating a rich and flavorful sauce that will make your potatoes irresistible.

Step 3: Build First Potato Layer

Slice potatoes thinly and evenly. If using onions, spread half the sliced onions at the bottom of an air fryer-safe dish. Arrange the first layer of potato slices carefully over the onions or directly in the dish.

Step 4: Add Initial Cream Layer

Pour half of the cream mixture evenly across the potato layer. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese to create a delicious foundation of flavor and texture.

Step 5: Complete Layering Process

Repeat the previous step with remaining potatoes, cream mixture, and cheese. Top the final layer with small pieces of butter to enhance richness and create a luxurious finish.

Step 6: Cook With Foil Cover

Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning. Place in the air fryer and cook for 25-30 minutes. The foil helps the potatoes steam and become tender.

Step 7: Crisp The Top

Remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking. This allows the surface to turn golden brown and develop a satisfying crispy texture.

Step 8: Rest And Serve

Allow the scalloped potatoes to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier. Scoop onto plates and enjoy the creamy, crispy goodness straight from the air fryer.

Tips For Crispy Yet Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

  • Slice Potatoes Uniformly: Cut potatoes to equal thickness ensuring even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.
  • Prevent Potato Browning: Soak sliced potatoes in cold water to remove excess starch and stop them from turning brown before cooking.
  • Boost Flavor Depth: Experiment with different cheese combinations like gruyere or parmesan to enhance the overall taste profile of the scalloped potatoes.
  • Manage Moisture Control: Cover with foil during initial cooking to retain moisture, then uncover for final crispiness and golden browning.
  • Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk for lactose-intolerant or vegan dietary needs.

Fun Variations On Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

  • Dairy-Free Delight: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of cheddar cheese for a creamy, plant-based alternative that's perfect for lactose-intolerant individuals.
  • Herb-Infused Variation: Mix fresh thyme, rosemary, and chives into the cream mixture to create an aromatic and flavorful version that elevates the classic potato dish.
  • Low-Carb Potato Swap: Replace traditional potatoes with thinly sliced turnips or cauliflower to create a low-carb friendly version that still maintains the creamy, cheesy texture of the original recipe.
  • Spicy Kick Rendition: Add diced jalapeños between layers and sprinkle cayenne pepper into the cream mixture for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their side dishes.
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Air Fryer Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Air Fryer Scalloped Potatoes Recipe


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4.7 from 9 reviews

  • Total Time: 45-55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Creamy, cheesy air fryer scalloped potatoes deliver ultimate comfort with minimal effort. Layers of thinly sliced potatoes bathed in rich sauce create a golden-brown masterpiece you can’t resist.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Seasoning and Aromatics:

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 small onion, thinly sliced

Additional Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons butter, diced

Instructions

  1. Prepare the air fryer and set the temperature to 350°F, ensuring even heating for optimal potato cooking.
  2. Create a flavor-packed cream blend by whisking together heavy cream, garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika until thoroughly combined.
  3. Arrange a base layer of thinly sliced onions in an air fryer-safe round dish, followed by a neat arrangement of potato slices.
  4. Drizzle half the cream mixture over the potato layer, ensuring even distribution and then sprinkle a generous portion of shredded cheddar cheese.
  5. Continue building subsequent layers by repeating the potato, cream, and cheese process, strategically placing small butter pieces on the top layer to enhance richness.
  6. Shield the dish with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning, then position in the preheated air fryer for 25-30 minutes until potatoes reach tender perfection.
  7. Uncover the foil during the final cooking stage, allowing the surface to transform into a golden, crispy texture that promises delightful crunch.
  8. Remove from air fryer and permit a brief resting period, enabling the dish to set and flavors to meld before serving these irresistible scalloped potatoes.

Notes

  • Choose starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for the best texture and crispy edges.
  • Slice potatoes uniformly using a mandoline or sharp knife to ensure even cooking and consistent layers.
  • Reduce cream and add milk for a lighter version without compromising rich flavor.
  • Experiment with different cheese combinations like Gruyère or Parmesan for unique taste profiles.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Side Dish, Snacks
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 430
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 300 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 18 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 34 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 9 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg
Olivia Brooks

Olivia Brooks

Contributing Writer

Expertise

  • Healthy recipe development
  • Plant-based cooking
  • Nutritional analysis
  • Food writing and content creation

Education

Culinary Institute of America
Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate Program
Focus: Culinary fundamentals, nutrition, and healthy cooking technique


Olivia believes good food should feed both the body and the soul. She earned her Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate from the Culinary Institute of America, where she focused on nutrition and practical cooking techniques that make healthy eating easy.
At 10 Below Ice Cream, Olivia shares single-serving recipes that are fresh, plant-forward, and full of heart. She loves helping people eat better, without stress, strict rules, or sacrificing flavor.
Beyond the kitchen, Olivia spends her time tending her backyard garden, practicing yoga, and discovering hidden gems in Portland’s food scene.

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