Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes with Garlic Butter – Crispy Edges, Fluffy Inside

Air fryer hasselback potatoes cook at 190°C / 375°F for 30–35 minutes for medium potatoes. Thin slices fan open as they cook, and garlic butter soaks between every layer, so you get crispy edges like chips on top and a soft, fluffy center like a baked potato underneath. They look impressive but need only five ingredients.

Cooking Times by Potato Size

Which Potatoes Work Best?

Use oval potatoes with thin skin, such as Yukon Gold or other all-rounder potatoes. They hold their shape and slice cleanly. Floury potatoes like Russets give a fluffier inside but can crack when sliced. Pick potatoes of the same size so they finish together.

Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes Ingredients

• 4 medium potatoes (about 700 g / 1.5 lb), scrubbed
• 3 tbsp melted butter or olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, finely grated
• ¾ tsp salt and ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp chopped fresh rosemary or thyme
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional)

How to Make Hasselback Potatoes in the Air Fryer

1. Use the Chopstick Trick

Place a potato between two wooden spoon handles or chopsticks. They stop the knife so you never cut all the way through.

2. Slice Thinly

Cut slits 3 mm (⅛ inch) apart along the whole potato, stopping at the chopsticks. Thinner slices give crispier edges.

3. Rinse and Dry

Rinse the sliced potatoes under cold water to remove surface starch, gently fanning the slices, then dry them very well.

4. Brush with Garlic Butter

Mix butter, garlic, herbs, salt and pepper. Brush half over the potatoes, pushing it between the slices.

5. Air Fry

Cook at 190°C / 375°F for 20 minutes. Brush with the remaining butter, letting it drip between the now-open slices, then cook another 10–15 minutes.

6. Add Cheese and Finish

Sprinkle with Parmesan for the last 3 minutes if using. Air fryer hasselback potatoes are done when a knife slides easily into the center and the edges are golden.

Flavor Ideas

• Cheesy bacon: tuck cheddar and bacon bits between the slices for the last 5 minutes.
• Spicy: add paprika and chili flakes to the butter.
• Herb lemon: finish with lemon zest and fresh parsley.

What to Serve With Them

Air fryer hasselback potatoes are a special side for steak, roast chicken or grilled fish. They pair perfectly with our Air Fryer Lamb Chops for a dinner-party plate. For an easier everyday potato, try our Air Fryer Baked Potato.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes

Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes FAQ

Final Thoughts on Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes

Air fryer hasselback potatoes combine crispy chip-like edges with a soft, buttery inside. Slice thin, rinse, dry well and baste twice for the best results. They turn an ordinary dinner into something special with very little effort.

Written by

James Wilson

Air Fryer Recipe Creator & Food Writer

James Wilson is an air fryer recipe creator and food writer who loves making simple, crispy, and flavorful meals easier to prepare at home. He focuses on practical air fryer recipes, helpful cooking tips, and easy-to-follow ideas designed for everyday kitchens.