Crispy Air Fryer Hasselback Cheesy Potato

Serves: 2
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40–50 minutes

🛒 Ingredients

• 2 large russet potatoes (similar size)

• 3 tbsp melted butter (or olive oil)

• 2 tbsp olive oil (for extra crispiness)

• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp paprika (optional)

• ½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning

• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or mix)

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley or chives, chopped

• Optional: 2 tbsp grated Parmesan

🔪 Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Wash and scrub potatoes thoroughly. Leave the skin on.

2. Pat completely dry.

3. Slice thin cuts across the potato (about ⅛ inch apart), but do not cut all the way through.

Tip:

Place chopsticks or wooden spoons on each side of the potato while slicing — this prevents cutting through.

🧄 Step 2: Make Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, mix:

• Melted butter

• Olive oil

• Garlic

• Salt

• Pepper

• Paprika

• Dried herbs

🥄 Step 3: Season the Potato

1. Gently fan open the slices.

2. Brush garlic butter mixture generously over the potato.

3. Use a pastry brush to get butter between the slices.

4. Reserve a little butter for later.

🔥 Step 4: Air Fry

1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

2. Place potatoes in air fryer basket.

3. Cook for 30–35 minutes, brushing with remaining butter halfway through.

4. The slices should begin opening and turning golden.

🧀 Step 5: Add Cheese

1. Remove potatoes carefully.

2. Gently insert shredded cheese between slices.

3. Sprinkle extra cheese and Parmesan on top.

4. Return to air fryer.

5. Cook another 5–10 minutes at 375°F until:

   • Cheese is melted

   • Edges are crispy

   • Potato inside is fork-tender

🌿 Step 6: Finish & Garnish

1. Remove from air fryer.

2. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives.

3. Optional: drizzle with garlic butter or sour cream.

🔥 How to Know It’s Perfect

✔ Crispy golden skin
✔ Edges slightly browned
✔ Cheese bubbling and slightly toasted
✔ Inside soft and fluffy

🧈 Flavor Upgrade Options

• Add crispy bacon bits between slices

• Sprinkle chili flakes for heat

• Add ranch seasoning to butter

• Mix cheddar + mozzarella for stretch

• Finish with a dollop of sour cream

🥓 Loaded Version

After baking, top with:

• Sour cream

• Bacon bits

• Green onions

• Extra cheese

🥔 Oven Version (If No Air Fryer)

Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 50–60 minutes total, adding cheese in the last 10 minutes.