
Air fryer sliced potatoes have become my go-to side dish when I'm craving something crispy and satisfying without the guilt of deep frying. These golden rounds achieve that perfect balance of crispy exterior and creamy interior that makes them absolutely irresistible. After countless batches, I've discovered that the secret lies in the preparation - getting the slices uniformly thick and thoroughly dry before cooking.
I stumbled upon this technique while experimenting with my new air fryer, and it's revolutionized how I prepare potatoes. The key discovery was that soaking the slices in water first removes excess starch, leading to crispier results.
Essential Ingredients Guide
- Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold provide the best texture.
- Olive Oil: Just enough to coat; the air fryer does the rest.
- Garlic Granules: They distribute more evenly than fresh garlic.
- Mixed Herbs: A blend of thyme, rosemary, and oregano works beautifully.
- Sea Salt: Fine salt adheres better than coarse.
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground adds the best flavor.
Detailed Cooking Instructions
- Step 1: Perfect Potato Preparation
- Wash potatoes thoroughly under cold water. Slice into exactly ½ cm rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline. Submerge in cold water for 15-20 minutes. Drain and pat completely dry with clean kitchen towels. Any moisture will prevent crispiness.
- Step 2: Seasoning for Success
- Place dried potato slices in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, starting with less. Add seasonings gradually while tossing. Ensure each slice is evenly coated. Let rest for 5 minutes to absorb flavors.
- Step 3: Air Fryer Setup
- Preheat air fryer to exactly 200°C. Arrange slices in a single layer. Don't overcrowd - work in batches if needed. Leave space between slices for air circulation.
- Step 4: Cooking Process
- Set timer for 18 minutes. Shake basket at 9-minute mark. Check at 15 minutes for desired crispiness. Adjust time based on thickness and quantity.
The most satisfying part of this recipe is achieving that perfect golden-brown color with a satisfying crunch. I've found that patience during the drying process makes all the difference in the final texture.
Serving Suggestions

These crispy potato rounds are incredibly versatile. I love serving them alongside burgers or grilled meats, but they also make fantastic appetizers with a variety of dips. My family particularly enjoys them with homemade garlic aioli or a spicy sriracha mayo.
Temperature Mastery
Understanding your specific air fryer is key. I always start with a test batch of a few slices to gauge the exact timing needed. Some air fryers run hotter than others, so it's worth taking the time to learn your appliance's quirks.
Make-Ahead Tips
While these are best served fresh, you can prep the potatoes ahead of time. Slice and soak them up to 4 hours in advance, keeping them submerged in cold water in the refrigerator. Just remember to dry them thoroughly before cooking.

This simple yet satisfying dish has become a regular in my kitchen rotation. The way the air fryer transforms humble potato slices into crispy, golden rounds never fails to impress. Whether serving them as a side dish or a snack, they offer that perfect combination of simple preparation and delicious results that makes cooking so rewarding.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why soak the potato slices in water?
- Soaking removes excess starch, which helps the potatoes get crispier when cooking.
- → Can I skip drying the potatoes?
- No, drying thoroughly is crucial for crispy results. Wet potatoes will steam instead of getting crispy.
- → What other seasonings can I use?
- Try paprika, onion powder, ranch seasoning, or Italian herbs - they all work great.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
- Best served fresh, but you can reheat them in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to crisp them up again.
- → Why are my potatoes not crispy?
- Make sure not to overcrowd the basket and dry the slices thoroughly before seasoning.