Delicious Air Fryer Scalloped Potatoes: Easy Side Dish For The Family

This recipe for the air fryer scalloped potatoes was initially published on the 18th of December 2023.

With the last posts for this Christmas 2023, we thought we’d go out with a bang and release some of our favorite savory dishes. One of those is the air fryer scalloped potatoes, which are honestly so easy to make and extremely delicious too, at that.

I mean, we have been having scalloped potatoes for years now and have usually baked them, so the air fryer scalloped potatoes are most definitely a revelation when it comes to the cooking method. But when it comes to what’s inside, that is a long-time favorite filling of ours. And since the holiday season is upon us, what better way to celebrate than with a dish that combines comfort and culinary delight?

Everyone, and I mean everyone, loves potatoes in any form. So it’s only bound to happen that everyone will love these air fryer scalloped potatoes too. They are soft, creamy, and savory to the right point. And you’ll get it ready to serve in less than an hour, so it’s not only delicious and easy to make but also quick to whip up.

But in case you are after some different savory dishes for the holidays, then check these out:

• the latest jalapeno cranberry meatballs, deliciously spicy;
• these ricotta honey crostini, fresh off the press;
• then the one and only Christmas Brussel Sprout Galette recipe;
• this cranberry rosemary chicken, similar to these beautiful meatballs;
• a delicious Christmas focaccia to serve with any dish;
• the cranberry whipped feta dip you can eat all day, every day;
• the Brie galette of dreams;
• a side of hassleback carrots which are as delicious as they look;
• this delicious vegan mushroom Wellington for your vegan friends;
• the brie and cranberry bites you can serve as appetizers or snacks;
• and the same goes for the Satay roast Brussel sprouts;
• another main dish for the vegans, the stuffed butternut squash;
• some savory shortbreads with fresh herbs;
• the traditional duck a l’orange for the Christmas dinner;
• and lastly, the leftover sandwich of dreams!

Elevating your holiday feast with air fryer scalloped potatoes

Picture this: the holiday table adorned with festive decorations, the aroma of cheesy scalloped potatoes wafting through the air, and the anticipation of that first forkful. The air fryer has not only made the cooking process a breeze but has also elevated the entire dining experience. So let’s see together how to make these air fryer recipes for your next Christmas dinner.

What are scalloped potatoes?

Scalloped potatoes are a classic and comforting dish that features thinly sliced potatoes in air fryer with cheese, rich and creamy between layers. The dish is typically baked until the potatoes are tender and the top layer becomes golden and crispy. The term “scalloped” in the name refers to the way the potatoes are layered, resembling the scalloped edge of a shell.

The key elements of scalloped potatoes include:

1. Potatoes: Varieties like Yukon Golds are often preferred for their creamy texture, although other types can be used as well. The potatoes are thinly sliced to ensure even cooking and layering;
2. Creamy Sauce: The sauce is a crucial component of scalloped potatoes, providing moisture and flavor to the dish. The sauce is usually made with a combination of butter, flour, milk, and sometimes heavy cream. Cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan, is often added to create a rich and cheesy flavor. Our version is a lot simpler and doesn’t involve as many ingredients;
3. Layering: The thinly sliced potatoes are layered in a baking dish, with each layer coated in a creamy sauce. This creates a delicious stack of potatoes that absorb the flavors of the sauce as they bake;
4. Baking: The dish is baked in the oven – or like in this case, the air fryer – until the potatoes are tender and the top layer is golden brown. The baking process allows the flavors to meld, and the top layer to develop a desirable crispiness.

Scalloped potatoes are a versatile dish that can be served as a side at holiday gatherings, family dinners, or potluck events. The creamy and cheesy goodness of scalloped potatoes makes them a beloved comfort food, and variations of the recipe may include additional ingredients such as onions, garlic, or herbs to add extra layers of flavor.

What is an air fryer?

An air fryer is a popular kitchen appliance designed to cook food by circulating hot air around it. It’s a compact, countertop appliance that provides a convenient and healthier alternative to traditional deep frying. The method used by air fryers is often referred to as rapid air technology.

Here’s a breakdown of how an air fryer works:

1. Hot Air Circulation: The primary mechanism of an air fryer involves the circulation of hot air around the food. The appliance is equipped with a heating element and a fan. The heating element warms up the air, and the fan distributes this hot air rapidly around the food, creating a convection effect;
2. Compact Design: Air fryers are typically compact in size and have a basket or tray where you place the food. The basket allows the hot air to reach all sides of the food, ensuring even cooking;
3. Minimal Oil Usage: One of the key advantages of air fryers is that they require significantly less oil compared to traditional deep frying. The hot air circulating around the food creates a crispy outer layer, similar to the texture achieved through deep frying, but with a fraction of the oil;
4. Versatility: Air fryers are versatile appliances that can be used to cook a wide range of foods, from vegetables and meats to frozen snacks and even baked goods. Some models come with additional features like grilling, roasting, and baking functions;
5. Healthier Cooking: By using less oil and relying on hot air circulation, air fryers are often considered a healthier cooking option. They allow you to enjoy the crispiness of fried foods without the excess oil and calories associated with deep frying;
6. Quick Cooking Time: Air fryers are known for their quick cooking times. The hot air rapidly cooks the food, making it an efficient choice for busy individuals who want to prepare meals faster.

Popular air fryer recipes include fries, chicken wings, roasted vegetables, and even desserts. It has become a go-to appliance for those looking to make healthier choices in their cooking while still enjoying the crispy textures and flavors associated with frying. We will be attempting more recipes with our own and share the successes (and maybe the failures too on Instagram!) so that you can use them too!

Unveiling the star ingredient: Yukon Gold potatoes

The key to achieving the perfect ninja air fryer scalloped potatoes recipe lies in selecting the right potatoes. Yukon Golds take center stage with their creamy texture and rich flavor. Slice them thinly, using a mandoline preferably, and you’re on your way to creating layers of potato slices goodness that will make your holiday feast unforgettable.

Why am I pushing for a mandoline? Because of the art of thinly sliced potatoes – a skill worth mastering for the ultimate scalloped delight. With each slice, envision the layers of flavor and texture that will dance on your palate. A mandolin slicer is your secret weapon here, ensuring uniformity and precision in every cut. But be careful, please – fingers are precious and those machines are little devils! Other recipes call for russet potatoes instead, but I think the yukon ones are better in texture.

What ingredients do I need to make these air fryer scalloped potatoes?

Let’s dive into the world of ingredients that will make our air fryer scalloped potatoes a culinary masterpiece. Each component plays a crucial role in creating layers of flavor and texture, transforming a humble dish into a sensation for the taste buds.

1. Potatoes

• Variety Matters: Yukon Gold potatoes are the star here, chosen for their creamy texture and rich flavor. These potatoes, when thinly sliced, will create the perfect foundation for our scalloped masterpiece;
• Thin Slices, Big Impact: Slicing the potatoes thinly is not just about aesthetics, it’s about ensuring that each layer cooks evenly and absorbs the creamy goodness of the sauce.

2. Cream

• Velvety Elegance: Cream is the magic elixir that transforms our dish into a luscious and velvety delight. When combined with butter, flour, and other ingredients, it forms the base of the cheese sauce that will bind the layers of potatoes together;
• Moisture and Flavour: The cream not only adds a luxurious texture but also infuses the dish with moisture, preventing the potatoes from drying out during the cooking process. It’s the key to achieving that perfect balance between creamy and crispy.

3. Butter

• Golden Goodness: Butter brings a rich, golden hue and a decadent flavor to the party. Melted butter, when combined with flour, creates a roux that serves as the foundation for our sauce. It adds a touch of indulgence that elevates the entire dish;
• Flavor Enhancer: Butter isn’t just about richness; it’s also a flavor enhancer. The marriage of butter and cream create a sauce that will coat each potato slice with a luxurious and savory essence.

4. Flour

• Binding Agent: Flour plays a crucial role in thickening the sauce. When combined with butter, it forms a roux that gives the sauce its velvety consistency. This ensures that our scalloped potatoes have the perfect balance of creaminess and structure;
• A Touch of Professionalism: The roux not only thickens the sauce but also adds a touch of professionalism to our cooking endeavor. It’s the secret behind achieving that restaurant-quality consistency.

5. Parmesan

• Umami Powerhouse: Parmesan, the aged cheese with a robust and savory flavor, adds depth to our sauce. Its umami notes complement the creaminess, creating a harmonious blend that will leave your taste buds singing;
• Golden Crust: When sprinkled on top, Parmesan forms a golden crust during the air frying process, adding a delightful crunch to each bite. It’s the finishing touch that takes these scalloped potatoes to the next level.

6. Chives

• Freshness and Colour: Chives bring a burst of freshness and a pop of color to our dish. Finely chopped, they add a mild onion flavor that beautifully contrasts with the richness of the sauce;
• Garnish Glory: Sprinkled on top just before serving, chives serve as a garnish that not only enhances the visual appeal but also introduces a refreshing element to the overall flavor profile.

7. Ham

• Savoury Surprise: Ham, with its savory and slightly smoky notes, is the optional ingredient that takes our scalloped potatoes to the realm of indulgence. Diced and layered between the potatoes, it adds a savory surprise in every few bites;
• Protein Boost: Ham not only contributes to the flavor but also provides a protein boost, making our dish more satisfying and turning it into a complete meal.

As we embark on the journey of crafting air fryer scalloped potatoes, each of these ingredients plays a pivotal role in creating a symphony of flavors and textures. Together, they transform a simple list of components into a culinary masterpiece that will be the highlight of your holiday table. Enjoy the process, savor the aromas, and get ready to indulge in a dish that celebrates the magic of festive cooking.

How do I make these air fryer scalloped potatoes?

These air fryer cheesy potatoes are extremely easy to whip up and it takes a few steps to get them ready. Let’s see together how.

We will start by preparing the potatoes. You will wash and peel the potatoes and then, using a mandolin slicer or a sharp knife, thinly slice the potatoes into rounds. Aim for slices that are about 1/8 inch thick for even cooking. Let them rest in a bowl full of cold water until you are ready to use them, so they don’t go black.

Then it will be time for the sauce, and this one is the foundation of your dish so make sure you do it right. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture becomes a light golden color. Gradually pour in the heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and whisk until the mixture thickens, forming a smooth and velvety sauce.

You can now stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s fully melted into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you’re adding diced ham, fold it into the sauce at this point for an extra savory kick.

It’s finally time to build and layer your dish! In your air fryer basket or a tray that fits in it, create a layer of thinly sliced potatoes. Pour a portion of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, ensuring an even coating. Repeat the process, layering potatoes and sauce until you’ve used up all the ingredients. Finish it with a sprinkle of some extra Parmesan cheese on top for a golden, crispy finish during air frying.

It’s time to cook: preheat your air fryer to 190°C. Once preheated, carefully place the tray or basket in the air fryer. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender, and the top layer is golden brown and crispy. Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the potatoes; they should be soft and easily pierced.

At last, the garnish of the scalloped potatoes: once cooked, carefully remove the air fryer basket or tray. Sprinkle the finely chopped chives over the top for a burst of freshness and color.

Allow the air fryer scalloped potatoes and ham to cool for a few minutes before serving. This ensures that the cheese sauce sets slightly, making it easier to portion the scalloped potatoes. Enjoy your scalloped potatoes in air fryer!

Can I make these ninja speedi potatoes in the oven?

You sure can! These air fryer potato scallops recipe is amazing because of its versatility, just make sure to count around 10 to 15 minutes longer for the potato to cook in the oven and make sure to check they are fully cooked before serving. Also, at the beginning, you might need to add some aluminium foil on top to ensure the cheesy topping doesn’t burn.

Do you have more air fryer recipes?

We do indeed! We have been loving our ninja multi cooker and have been using it almost daily and still playing with it to try new recipes! Some of our trusted recipes are:

• air fryer croissants: who said air fryers are only for dinner or lunch? These are the perfect way to enjoy croissants without lamination and waiting time! Amazing with jam, curds or even spreads.
• air fryer chicken fries: forget about fast food, you can make these straight at home and they taste far far better!
• air fryer cabbage wedges: forget about overlooking cabbage with these delicious crispy outside and tender inside wedges with a delicious ginger sauce;
• air fryer pizza roll ups: this is one of our go to lunches, they are easy to whip up and cook, it’s kind of a lunch recipe you put on and kinda forget about it until you start smelling the deliciousness!
• asian inspired mushroom burgers: the perfect way to enjoy a vegan burger and make it quick and easy for dinner.

Shop the air fryer scalloped potatoes post

In the realm of holiday cooking, the air fryer has proven to be a game-changer, turning a classic dish into a masterpiece of convenience and flavor. With thinly sliced Yukon Gold potatoes, a decadent cheese sauce, and the magic of air frying, you’ve unlocked the secret to the perfect air fryer scalloped potatoes. It’s time to gather your loved ones, savor the festive flavors, and revel in the joy of creating memorable holiday moments in the heart of your kitchen.

So, this holiday season, let the air fryer potato bake take center stage, and may your celebrations be filled with laughter, love, and the delectable aroma of cheesy air fryer scalloped potatoes. Happy holidays and happy cooking!

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