Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes with Bacon and Cheese

Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes with Bacon and Cheese

Ingredients:

• 4 medium-sized russet potatoes
• 4-6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Using a sharp knife, carefully make thin slices along the length of each potato, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch apart. Be careful not to cut all the way through; leave the bottom intact. Placing the potato between two chopsticks or wooden spoons can help prevent over-cutting.
3. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
5. Brush or rub the seasoned oil mixture all over the potatoes, making sure to get it in between the slices.
6. Place the potatoes in the preheated air fryer basket. Cook for 30-40 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of the potatoes, flipping them halfway through for even cooking. The potatoes should be crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
7. Once the potatoes are almost done, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese between the slices and on top. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Carefully remove the potatoes from the air fryer using tongs. Top with crumbled bacon and chopped parsley.
9. Serve the Hasselback potatoes with bacon and cheese immediately as a side dish or even a main course.

Notes:

• You can customize the seasoning by adding herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives to the olive oil mixture for extra flavor.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, Gouda, or Monterey Jack, for variety.
• If you prefer a crispy bacon topping, you can add the crumbled bacon during the last few minutes of cooking, so it crisps up without burning.
• Feel free to adjust the cooking time and temperature based on your air fryer model and personal preference. Thicker potatoes may require a slightly longer cooking time.
• Keep in mind that the cook time may vary, so it’s a good idea to check the potatoes for doneness by inserting a fork or skewer to ensure they’re tender all the way through.

Enjoy your delicious Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes with Bacon and Cheese!

Additional Tips and Variations:

1. Prep and Seasoning:
   • For a twist on the seasoning, mix grated Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast into the olive oil mixture for added umami and a cheesy flavor.
   • If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper on the potatoes before cooking.
2. Bacon Alternatives:
   • Swap out bacon for diced ham or cooked sausage for a different protein option.
   • For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon altogether and load up on extra cheese and your favorite veggies.
3. Cheese Combinations:
   • Create a gourmet twist by combining different cheeses, such as blue cheese and caramelized onions or feta and sun-dried tomatoes.
   • Add a layer of cream cheese or sour cream between the slices for extra creaminess.
4. Toppings and Garnishes:
   • Experiment with various toppings like chopped green onions, sliced jalapeños, or even a dollop of guacamole.
   • Drizzle with balsamic reduction or truffle oil for an elegant touch.
5. Serving Ideas:
   • Serve the Hasselback potatoes as an appetizer at parties, using smaller potatoes or cutting them into bite-sized pieces.
   • Create a loaded potato bar with various toppings and let your guests customize their own Hasselback creations.
6. Preparation Ahead of Time:
   • You can prepare the potatoes and make the cuts in advance, then store them in a bowl of water in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. This can save you time on the day you plan to serve them.
7. Dipping Sauces:
   • Serve with a side of sour cream, ranch dressing, or aioli for dipping.
8. Crispiness:
   • If you prefer an extra crispy exterior, give the potatoes a light spritz of cooking spray before cooking, or lightly brush them with melted butter or ghee.
9. Serving Size:
   • Adjust the number of potatoes based on the number of servings you need. You can easily scale the recipe up or down.
10. Pairings:
    • These potatoes go well with a variety of main dishes such as grilled steak, roasted chicken, or a fresh salad.

Remember, cooking is all about creativity and personal taste, so feel free to experiment and make this recipe your own. Enjoy your flavorful Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes with Bacon and Cheese!