Easy Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes

How to Make Hasselback Potatoes in the Air Fryer

Hasselbacks are insanely easy to make. Please scroll down for the detailed printable directions in the recipe card below. All you need is a sharp knife and a little bit of time. I love how they look absolutely gorgeous on the plate.

Ingredients

• 4 medium potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet are best).
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, but highly recommended).
• Salt and pepper, to taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, fresh herbs (like parsley or chives), sour cream, or bacon bits.

Tools to Have Handy

• An air fryer (obviously). I’m using Ninja XL 6-in-1.
• A sharp knife, chopsticks or wooden skewers (more on this in a sec).
• A brush for slathering on that buttery goodness.

Directions

1. Prep Your Potatoes. First things first, give those potatoes a good scrub under water and pat them dry. Nobody wants dirt in their fancy food.

Now, the fun part—making those famous Hasselback slices! Place a potato on a cutting board and lay a chopstick or skewer on either side of it. Carefully cut thin, even slices into the potato, stopping just before you cut all the way through (the chopsticks keep you from slicing too far). Repeat with the other potatoes.

2. Place the potatoes in the microwave, and cook on high for 5-7 minutes until fork tender.

3. Season. Mix your olive oil (or melted butter) with the garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Remove potatoes from the microwave. Using your brush, coat the potatoes generously, making sure to get the mixture into all the slices. This is where the magic happens—flavor in every bite!

4. Air Fry. Place your potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Set the temperature to 375°F and cook for 12-14 minutes, depending on the size of your potatoes.

About halfway through (around 6 minutes), pull out the basket and give the potatoes another brush with oil or butter. This keeps them crispy and extra golden.

Serve. Hasselback potatoes go with everything. Serve them alongside steak, chicken, or fish, or keep it casual with a side salad. Pile on toppings and make them the main course.

FAQs: Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes

1. What type of potatoes are best for Hasselback potatoes?
Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes work best! Yukon Gold gives a creamy texture with crispy edges, while Russets have a fluffier inside. Choose medium-sized ones for even cooking.

2. What is the Origin of Hasselback Potatoes?

Hasselback potatoes might sound super fancy, but they actually have a pretty chill origin story. They were first made way back in the 1950s at a restaurant in Stockholm, Sweden, called Hasselbacken—yep, that’s where the name comes from! A chef-in-training decided to slice up potatoes in this cool, fan-like way, and boom, a star was born. The idea was to make something that looked fancy but was easy to cook, with crispy edges and a soft, fluffy inside. Now they’re famous all over the world, and people love them because they’re simple, delicious, and totally Instagram-worthy.

3. How do I prevent cutting all the way through the potato?
Place chopsticks, wooden skewers, or even butter knives on either side of the potato. These act as guides, stopping your knife from cutting through completely.

4. I don’t have the microwave. How long do I cook Hasselback potatoes in the air fryer?
Cook for 20–25 minutes, depending on the size of your potatoes. Thicker or larger potatoes might need an extra 5-10 minutes.

5. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Slice and season the potatoes, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Cook them fresh in the air fryer when ready to serve.

6. Can I use sweet potatoes for this recipe?
Totally! Sweet potatoes can be made Hasselback-style, but they may cook a little faster since they’re softer. Start checking them at the 18-minute mark.

7. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store cooked potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes to crisp them up again.

8. Can I make Hasselback potatoes without oil or butter?
While you can skip the oil or butter for a healthier version, the potatoes might not be as crispy. Use a light spray of cooking oil if you’re cutting back but still want a bit of crunch.

9. Are these gluten-free and vegan?
Yes! As long as you stick to plant-based toppings like olive oil, herbs, and dairy-free cheese, this recipe is both gluten-free and vegan-friendly.

10. Do I need to soak the potatoes before cooking?
No soaking is needed! Just wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt, and you’re good to go.

Got more questions? Drop them in the comments, and I’ll be happy to help!