1. Prepare the Potatoes
- Wash and Slice: Begin by thoroughly washing the russet potatoes. Pat them dry with a paper towel. Slice each potato into wedges or bite-sized chunks, ensuring they are roughly uniform in size for even cooking.
- Season: In a large mixing bowl, toss the potato pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Ensure that each piece is well-coated with the seasoning mixture.
2. Air Fry the Potatoes
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy texture.
- Cook: Place the seasoned potato pieces in the air fryer basket. Arrange them in a single layer, making sure they’re not overcrowded. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Air fry for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy.
3. Add the Toppings
- Top with Cheese: Once the potatoes are crispy and cooked through, carefully remove them from the air fryer and place them on a serving plate or tray. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the hot potatoes, allowing it to melt slightly.
- Add Bacon and Green Onions: Scatter the cooked bacon bits and chopped green onions over the cheesy potatoes.
- Garnish: Finish by drizzling sour cream over the top and garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips for Perfection
- Even Cooking: For the crispiest results, make sure to cut the potatoes into uniform pieces and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Air Fryer Crispy Loaded Potatoes are incredibly versatile. They make an excellent accompaniment to grilled meats, burgers, or can even serve as a standalone snack at a gathering. Pair them with a fresh garden salad or a tangy dipping sauce for added variety.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Crispy Loaded Potatoes recipe is more than just a side dish—it’s a celebration of crispy perfection and loaded flavor. The air fryer elevates these potatoes to new heights, delivering a golden crunch with minimal oil. The combination of melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions creates a mouthwatering dish that is sure to impress.
So, fire up your air fryer, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in a crispy, savory treat that will keep you and your guests coming back for more. Enjoy every bite of this delicious and exclusive recipe, and let it be the star of your next meal!