If you love scalloped potatoes but want a faster method with a great texture, you’re in the right place. Learning how to make scalloped potatoes in air fryer is a fantastic way to get that creamy, tender dish with less time and effort. The air fryer’s concentrated heat cooks the potatoes quickly and gives the top a beautiful golden finish. It’s a simple twist on a classic side dish that really works.
This guide will walk you through every step. We’ll cover the best potatoes to pick, how to slice them evenly, and how to build your layers. You’ll get a complete recipe and tips for perfect results every time. Let’s get started.
How To Make Scalloped Potatoes In Air Fryer
This is the core method for creating classic scalloped potatoes using your air fryer. The principle is similar to the oven version, but the cooking time is shorter and the top gets extra crispy. You’ll need an air fryer that’s large enough to hold a baking dish or pan safely inside.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients and tools before you begin. Having everything ready makes the process smooth and easy.
- Potatoes: 2 pounds of russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal.
- Dairy: 1 ½ cups of heavy cream, half-and-half, or whole milk.
- Aromatics: 2 cloves of garlic, minced.
- Cheese: 1 cup of shredded Gruyère or sharp cheddar cheese (optional, but recommended).
- Thickener: 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour.
- Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg or thyme.
- Tools: A mandoline or sharp knife, a mixing bowl, a saucepan, and an air fryer-safe baking dish or pan.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these numbered steps for the best outcome. Don’t rush the prep work—it’s key to even cooking.
1. Prepare the Potatoes and Dish
First, wash and peel your potatoes. Using a mandoline slicer is the best way to get uniform, thin slices about 1/8-inch thick. This ensures they cook evenly. If you don’t have a mandoline, use a sharp knife and take your time. Lightly grease your air fryer-safe dish with butter or oil to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Cream Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cream, minced garlic, flour, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Whisk constantly until the mixture is warm and slightly thickened, about 5 minutes. You don’t need a full boil, just enough heat to dissolve the flour and blend the flavors. Remove it from the heat.
3. Layer the Potatoes and Sauce
Arrange a single, slightly overlapping layer of potato slices in the bottom of your prepared dish. Pour a portion of the warm cream sauce over the layer, just enough to coat. If your using cheese, sprinkle a little over the sauce. Repeat this process—potatoes, sauce, cheese—until you’ve used all your ingredients, finishing with a layer of sauce and a generous sprinkle of cheese on top.
4. Air Fry the Scalloped Potatoes
Carefully place the dish in your air fryer basket. You might need to select a dish that fits your specific model. Set the air fryer to 320°F (160°C). Cook for 25-30 minutes. Then, increase the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and cook for another 10-15 minutes. The potatoes are done when they are tender when pierced with a knife and the top is deeply golden brown. Let them rest for 10 minutes before serving; this allows the sauce to set.
Choosing the Right Potatoes
Not all potatoes are the same for this dish. The right choice affects the texture and how well they hold up in the sauce.
- Russet Potatoes: These are starchy and absorb the cream sauce well, leading to a thicker, more cohesive dish. They are a classic choice.
- Yukon Gold Potatoes: These have a naturally buttery flavor and a waxier texture. They hold their shape a bit better and offer a creamier bite.
- Avoid Waxy Potatoes: Red or new potatoes can become gummy and don’t absorb the sauce as nicely for this particular recipe.
Essential Tips for Success
A few simple tricks can make the difference between good and great air fryer scalloped potatoes.
- Slice Evenly: This is the most important tip. Uneven slices mean some potatoes will be undercooked while others are mushy.
- Don’t Skip the Rest: Letting the dish sit after cooking lets the liquid thicken. If you cut in to soon, it might look too runny.
- Check for Doneness: Always test with a knife in the center. If you feel resistance, they need more time.
- Cover if Needed: If the top is browning to fast before the potatoes are tender, you can loosely tent the dish with foil.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Steer clear of these pitfalls for a perfect dish every single time.
- Using the Wrong Dish: Ensure your baking dish is approved for air fryer use. Glass or metal pans that fit with space for air circulation are best.
- Overcrowding the Air Fryer: If the dish is to large or to full, hot air can’t circulate properly, leading to uneven cooking.
- Forgetting to Grease: Even with a creamy sauce, potatoes can stick to the bottom of a dry dish.
- Adding Raw Flour: Always cook the flour in the warm cream mixture first. This prevents a pasty, floury taste in your final dish.
Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, you can easily customize it to your taste.
- Add Onions: Thinly slice a small onion and layer it in with the potatoes for extra flavor.
- Different Cheeses: Try Parmesan, fontina, or a smoked gouda for a different twist.
- Herbs: Mix fresh chopped rosemary or chives into the cream sauce or sprinkle on top before serving.
- Protein Addition: For a heartier meal, add layers of thinly sliced ham or cooked bacon between the potato layers.
Serving Suggestions
Air fryer scalloped potatoes are a versatile side. They pair wonderfully with many main courses.
- Serve alongside a roasted chicken or a juicy steak.
- They are a perfect partner for baked ham, especially during the holidays.
- For a simpler meal, pair them with pan-seared pork chops or meatloaf.
- A fresh green salad with a vinaigrette dressing balances the richness of the potatoes nicely.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers, they store well. Let the potatoes cool completely, then cover the dish tightly or transfer to an airtight container. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place a portion back in an air fryer-safe dish. Reheat in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for 5-8 minutes, until warmed through. You can also use the microwave, but the air fryer will restore the crispy top.
FAQ Section
Can I make scalloped potatoes in the air fryer ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish up to a day ahead. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the air frying time since you’ll be starting with a cold dish.
Do I have to peel the potatoes for air fryer scalloped potatoes?
Peeling is recommended for the most traditional texture and appearance. The peels can sometimes become a bit tough. However, if you use Yukon Golds with very thin skins, you can scrub them well and leave the peels on if you prefer.
Why are my scalloped potatoes still hard in the air fryer?
This usually means they need more cooking time. The slices might have been to thick, or the air fryer temperature was a bit low. Cover the top with foil to prevent over-browning, and continue air frying in 5-minute increments until tender.
What’s the difference between scalloped and au gratin potatoes?
This is a common question. Scalloped potatoes are traditionally cooked in a cream sauce without cheese (though many add it now). Potatoes au gratin always include cheese, often with a breadcrumb topping. The air fryer method works beautifully for both styles.
Can I use frozen potatoes for air fryer scalloped potatoes?
It’s not recommended. Frozen potato slices release to much water during cooking, which will make your sauce thin and watery. For the best results, always use fresh, raw potatoes.
How do I prevent the cream from bubbling over in my air fryer?
Make sure your baking dish is not filled more than 3/4 of the way to the top. Leaving this space gives the dairy room to bubble without making a mess. Placing the dish on a small trivet or even a crumpled piece of foil in the basket can also help with air flow and prevent spills.
Making this classic side dish in your air fryer is a reliable and efficient method. The key is in the preparation—taking time to slice evenly and create a simple sauce. With this guide, you can enjoy creamy, comforting scalloped potatoes with a perfectly crispy top any night of the week. The air fryer’s speed and consistency make it a great tool for this recipe. Give it a try and see how it simplifies a beloved dish.