Air fryer Hasselback potatoes

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Ingredients

Potatoes

• 4 medium Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes
(Choose potatoes that are similar in size for even cooking)

Oil and Seasoning Base

• 3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Flavor Additions (Choose Any)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon chili flakes

Optional Finishing Toppings

• Fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped
• Grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese
• Sour cream or garlic yogurt sauce

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Equipment Needed

• Air fryer (basket or tray style)
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon handles or chopsticks
• Pastry brush or spoon
• Small bowl for oil mixture

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Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Wash the potatoes thoroughly and scrub the skins clean.
   Do not peel them; the skin helps hold the potato together and crisps beautifully.
2. Pat the potatoes completely dry with a towel.
   Moisture prevents crisping, so this step matters.

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Step 2: Slice Hasselback-Style

1. Place one potato between two wooden spoon handles or chopsticks.
   These act as guards to stop your knife from cutting all the way through.
2. Using a sharp knife, slice the potato crosswise into thin cuts:
   • Aim for ⅛-inch spacing
   • Slice slowly and evenly
   • Stop when the knife hits the spoon handles
3. Repeat with all potatoes.

Tip: The thinner the slices, the crispier the final result.

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Step 3: Pre-Cook in the Air Fryer

1. Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (182°C) for 3 minutes.
2. Place the sliced potatoes in the air fryer basket:
   • Cut-side up
   • Leave space between each potato
3. Air fry for 10 minutes.
   This softens the interior and helps the slices begin to separate.

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Step 4: Season Generously

1. In a small bowl, mix:
   • Olive oil or melted butter
   • Salt
   • Pepper
   • Any additional spices you are using
2. Remove the potatoes from the air fryer carefully.
3. Brush or spoon the oil mixture over the potatoes:
   • Make sure oil drips into the cuts
   • Gently fan the slices with a fork if needed

Proper seasoning at this stage ensures flavor deep inside the potato.

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Step 5: Air Fry Until Crispy

1. Return the potatoes to the air fryer.
2. Increase temperature to 390°F (200°C).
3. Cook for 15–20 minutes, depending on size:
   • Flip not required
   • Halfway through, brush with more oil if desired
4. Potatoes are done when:
   • Edges are deep golden brown
   • Centers are tender when pierced with a knife

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Step 6: Add Final Toppings (Optional)

If using cheese:

1. Sprinkle grated cheese over the potatoes.
2. Return to the air fryer for 1–2 minutes until melted.

If using herbs:
• Add fresh herbs after cooking to keep them bright and aromatic.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve immediately while hot and crisp.

Pairs well with:
• Steak or grilled chicken
• Salmon or roasted vegetables
• As a stand-alone appetizer with dipping sauce

Suggested sauces:
• Sour cream with lemon and salt
• Garlic aioli
• Herb yogurt sauce