Airfryer Cheesy Potato Wedges
Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Dishes
I absolutely love making Airfryer Cheesy Potato Wedges because they strike the perfect balance between crispy and creamy. The air fryer provides that delightful crunch without excessive oil, making them healthier than traditional fried potatoes. I enjoy customizing the cheese blend and adding spices, which elevates the flavor profile while keeping the preparation simple. They make for a fantastic side dish or a satisfying snack, and I promise you'll find yourself reaching for seconds!
When I first tried making potato wedges in the air fryer, I was amazed at how quickly they cooked and how crispy they turned out without frying. The method works perfectly by circulating hot air evenly around the wedges, allowing them to crisp up beautifully in just minutes. I usually slice the potatoes into even wedges for a consistent cook, making it a breeze to achieve that golden-brown hue.
One tip I've picked up is to soak the wedges in water for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps to remove excess starch and results in a crunchier texture. Paired with a blend of cheddar and mozzarella, these cheesy potato wedges are a crowd-pleaser in my home!
Why You'll Love These Wedges
- Perfectly crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.
- Generously topped with melted cheese for that comforting flavor.
- Quick and easy preparation, ideal for a weekday snack or game day.
Mastering the Wedge Technique
Achieving perfectly crisp potato wedges starts with the right cutting technique. Aim for uniform wedges, about 1 inch thick, to ensure even cooking. Thinner wedges can become overly crispy, while thicker ones may remain soft inside. A sharp knife is essential for precise cuts, and a cutting board with a non-slip surface can enhance stability during preparation.
Soaking the wedges isn't just a suggestion; it's crucial. By soaking them in cold water for 30 minutes, you remove excess starch, resulting in wedges that fry up light and crispy. After soaking, make sure to pat them dry thoroughly with a kitchen towel. Excess moisture can lead to steaming rather than crisping, leaving you with less desirable texture.
Elevating Flavor with Spices and Cheese
The combination of paprika and garlic powder in the seasoning not only enhances the flavor but also adds warmth and depth. Feel free to experiment with other spices like cayenne for a kick or Italian seasoning for a herby twist. Remember that the cheese blend also plays a significant role; mixing mozzarella with cheddar gives a balance of creaminess and a rich cheese pull that makes these wedges indulgent.
After the initial cook in the air fryer, when you sprinkle the cheese on top, watch closely as it melts. You want it to become bubbling and slightly golden rather than burnt. If you prefer a bit of crunch, consider adding a final minute of cooking time, but be sure to keep a close eye on it to avoid overcooking.
Ingredients
For the Wedges
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and peel the russet potatoes. Cut them into wedges, ensuring they are of uniform size for even cooking.
Soak the Wedges
Soak the potato wedges in cold water for about 30 minutes. This will help remove excess starch.
Season the Wedges
Drain the wedges and pat them dry with a kitchen towel. In a large bowl, toss the wedges with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Cook in the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the seasoned wedges in a single layer in the basket and cook for 15 minutes.
Add Cheese and Finish Cooking
After 15 minutes, remove the basket and sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the wedges. Return the basket to the air fryer and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve
Once cooked, carefully remove the wedges and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Pro Tips
- For an extra kick, consider adding some cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the seasoning mix. Experiment with different cheese blends to find your favorite flavor combination.
Serving Suggestions
These cheesy potato wedges are incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of dips. Classic options like ranch or sour cream are delightful complements, but consider trying spicy sriracha mayo or a cheesy nacho dip for a fun twist. For those who love a bit of acidity, a drizzle of tangy balsamic glaze can elevate the dish beautifully.
If you're hosting a gathering, these wedges can easily double as a shareable appetizer. Keeping them warm in the air fryer while guests arrive ensures they stay crispy. Alternatively, serve them alongside your favorite burger or grilled meats for a heartier meal—perfect for game day or casual family dinners.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover potato wedges can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy them again, avoid using a microwave, as this will cause them to become soggy. Instead, reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness.
If you're planning to make these ahead of time, you can prepare the potato wedges, season them, and freeze them uncooked. Spread them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you want to cook them, there’s no need to thaw—just toss them straight into the air fryer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, you can use other varieties like yellow or sweet potatoes, but cooking times may vary slightly.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer to bring back the crispiness.
→ Can I make these wedges vegan?
Absolutely! Simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
→ What dipping sauces go well with cheesy wedges?
Ranch, sour cream, or even a spicy aioli make great dipping sauces for these cheesy potato wedges.
Airfryer Cheesy Potato Wedges
I absolutely love making Airfryer Cheesy Potato Wedges because they strike the perfect balance between crispy and creamy. The air fryer provides that delightful crunch without excessive oil, making them healthier than traditional fried potatoes. I enjoy customizing the cheese blend and adding spices, which elevates the flavor profile while keeping the preparation simple. They make for a fantastic side dish or a satisfying snack, and I promise you'll find yourself reaching for seconds!
What You'll Need
For the Wedges
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
Wash and peel the russet potatoes. Cut them into wedges, ensuring they are of uniform size for even cooking.
Soak the potato wedges in cold water for about 30 minutes. This will help remove excess starch.
Drain the wedges and pat them dry with a kitchen towel. In a large bowl, toss the wedges with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the seasoned wedges in a single layer in the basket and cook for 15 minutes.
After 15 minutes, remove the basket and sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the wedges. Return the basket to the air fryer and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Once cooked, carefully remove the wedges and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Extra Tips
- For an extra kick, consider adding some cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the seasoning mix. Experiment with different cheese blends to find your favorite flavor combination.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 42g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 8g