Accordion potatoes have gone viral on TikTok for their crispy exterior and fun accordion-like looks. So, of course, I had to create an air fryer accordion potatoes recipe to skip the boiling and baking process and get to enjoying them that much sooner!
Accordion potatoes are similar to the hasselback style (as you can see in my Microwave Hasselback Potatoes recipe), in that you cut a series of slices into them that get filled with seasonings and create a number of crispy edges.
Where they differ is that accordion potatoes use a flat slab of potato instead of a whole one. They are then cut on both sides (though still not all the way through) in alternating directions. The result is a potato that can be stretched out into an “accordion” pattern.
In fact, you could call them hasselback slices! They make a fun side dish, gaining popularity over a traditional potato side dish based solely on their appearance.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
All you need for this recipe are some potatoes (I recommend Yukon Gold in particular) and a handful of pantry ingredients to make this impressive looking side dish.
The lattice type cuts made in the potatoes offer so much great surface area for storing flavor from the herbs and spices you add. Plus, it creates a lot more edges for adding delicious browning.
You don’t need to par boil the potatoes at all for this, and the air fryer still does a great job of getting nice crispy edges around a soft baked potato interior.
While these potatoes look impressive enough to serve to company, they’re actually incredibly easy to make. They’re also naturally vegetarian and vegan (assuming you don’t add any ingredients that would otherwise change that) so they fit a variety of dietary restrictions too!
Ingredients List
1 pound potatoes (approx 3-4 medium potatoes)
1 Tbsp olive oil
½ tsp salt (or to taste)
½ tsp black pepper (or to taste)
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika
Ingredient Tips and Substitutions
I prefer Yukon Gold potatoes for this, but you can also use Russet or red potatoes (though the flavor and cooking times will vary)
You can swap in butter (or a vegan butter alternative) instead of the olive oil if preferred
All seasonings are adjustable to taste and you can try different seasonings as well. Thyme, parsley, and rosemary are other great options, or add Cajun seasoning or chili powder for a little heat. Even fry seasoning is great (I like this one, but you can use your favorite brand)
Dipping sauces are entirely optional, but I usually opt for ketchup, garlic aioli, or chipotle aioli
Step By Step Instructions
Wash, dry, and peel your potatoes. Then, trim the rounded edges from each end
Cut the potatoes lengthwise into approximately ½” thick planks and put them in a bowl of cold water (this helps to draw out starch for a crispier potato)
Use a knife to cut slices about ⅛” apart across each potato piece, without cutting all the way through. Tip: use the handles of a wooden spoon, chopsticks, or skewers on either side of the potato to help prevent cutting too far
Flip the potato over, and now make cuts on the diagonal following the same process. Return each to the bowl of cold water when complete, and repeat until all potatoes are cut
Remove the potatoes from the water and pat dry. Combine the olive oil with the seasonings in a small bowl, and then brush the mixture evenly over both sides of the potato slices. Try to get some into the cuts, but don’t force the potatoes too much or they can break (you can always brush more on later during cooking as they soften)
Place the potatoes into your air fryer’s basket or rack in a single layer, allowing some air space between them. Note: you can skewer them first if you like for stability, and ease of flipping, but this is optional
Cook on the air fry setting at 400°F for 20-25 minutes (flipping after 10 minutes and adding more seasoning if desired) until they are browned and pierce easily with a fork
Top with fresh herbs or parmesan cheese if desired and serve hot!
What to Serve With Accordion Potatoes
Steak
Chicken
Lamb
Ham
Salmon
Pork chops
Turkey
Duck
Sausages
Burgers
Hot dogs
Sauteed spinach
Brussels sprouts
Portobello mushrooms
Stir fry
Stuffed peppers
There are lots of great options to serve with accordion potatoes, from proteins to vegetarian options to complete your meal!
Can I Use Any Type of Potatoes for Making Air Fryer Accordion Potatoes?
Yes, you can use various types of potatoes for making air fryer accordion potatoes, including Russet, Yukon Gold, or red potatoes. Choose potatoes that are firm and suitable for baking to achieve the best results.
Note that cooking times can vary between varieties and sizes of potato, so adjust as needed based on your choice.
What Seasonings and Toppings Pair Well with Accordion Potatoes?
Popular seasonings and toppings for accordion potatoes include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, rosemary, thyme, grated Parmesan cheese, bacon bits, and melted butter or olive oil.
Feel free to customize the seasonings according to your taste preferences.
How Thin Should I Slice the Potatoes for Making Air Fryer Accordion Potatoes?
The potatoes should be sliced thinly so they cook well, but not all the way through, leaving the bottom intact to create the accordion effect.
Aim for slices that are about ¼ to ½ inch thick, and make the accordion cuts about ⅛ inch apart.
What Is the Ideal Cooking Time and Temperature for Air Frying Accordion Potatoes?
Set the air fryer to around 375-400°F (190-200°C) and cook the accordion potatoes for approximately 25-35 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of the potatoes.
Flip them halfway through the cooking process to ensure even browning.
Can I Add Cheese or Other Fillings Between the Slices of Air Fryer Accordion Potatoes?
Unlike hasselback potatoes, it is difficult to add cheese between slices of accordion potatoes. You are better served to sprinkle with cheese after cooking, or add a cheese sauce on top.
Herbs and seasonings, however, are easier to get into the cuts by using oil or butter and brushing it in.
Are Air Fryer Accordion Potatoes a Healthy Side Dish Option?
Air fryer accordion potatoes can be a healthier alternative to traditional fried potatoes since they require less oil for cooking. By using minimal oil and seasoning, you can enjoy a crispy and flavorful side dish without compromising on taste.
However, you should always consult a nutritionist or medical professional to make sure that dishes conform to your specific dietary restrictions if you have them.
Can I Make Air Fryer Accordion Potatoes in Advance and Reheat Them Later?
Absolutely! Store the cooked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat at a lower temperature of around 350°F for 3-5 minutes until warmed through.
Note that they will dry out a bit more with each reheat, so try to minimize it when possible.
Recipe Pro Tips
If your air fryer basket is not nonstick, you will want to spray or brush it with oil, or use parchment to prevent the potatoes from sticking
I do not preheat my air fryer for this recipe, since I flip the potatoes. However, if you do, you can generally cut 3-5 minutes off cooking time
The cut potatoes will start to soften as they cook. I highly recommend a spatula to flip them so they don’t fall apart (or you can skewer them before cooking to hold them together)
This recipe was made in my Ninja air fryer and my potatoes were browned and cooked after 20 minutes (without preheating). Other air fryers and potato sizes may vary slightly, so adjust as needed
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftover accordion potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days
To reheat, air fry at a lower temperature of 350°F for 3-5 minutes, depending on your air fryer and the size and variety of your potatoes
These air fryer accordion potatoes are a fun, crispy vegetable side dish. They’re basically like hasselback potato slices!
All those cuts make for great browning on the edges and holding seasoning, so you get a crispy outside, soft inside, and tons of flavor. Speaking of which, feel free to try out any seasonings you like on your potatoes to make it your own!
Thanks to just a few simple ingredients, this recipe is naturally vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free. That means it fits a wide variety of dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. These accordion potatoes are elegant enough for company, but easy enough for a weeknight!
Crispy Air Fryer Accordion Potatoes (Slices)
These air fryer accordion potato slices come up crispy, browned, and tender in just about 20 minutes. Season them your favorite way for a delicious, simple side dish!
1PoundYukon Gold potatoes(about 3-4 medium potatoes)
1Tbspolive oil
½Tspsalt(or to taste)
½Tspblack pepper
½Tsp paprika
½Tspgarlic powder
Instructions
Wash, dry, and peel your potatoes. Then, trim the rounded edges from each end (you can trim the sides too and make them more evenly rectangular if you want)
1 Pound Yukon Gold potatoes
Cut the potatoes lengthwise into approximately ½” thick planks and put them in a bowl of cold water (this helps to draw out starch for a crispier potato)
Use a knife to cut slices about ⅛” apart across each potato piece, without cutting all the way through. Tip: use the handles of a wooden spoon, chopsticks, or skewers on either side of the potato to help prevent cutting too far
Flip the potato over, and now make cuts on the diagonal following the same process. Return each to the bowl of cold water when complete, and repeat until all potatoes are cut
Remove the potatoes from the water and pat dry. Combine the olive oil with the seasonings in a small bowl, and then brush the mixture evenly over both sides of the potato slices. Try to get some into the cuts, but don’t force the potatoes too much or they can break (you can always brush more on later during cooking as they soften)
1 Tbsp olive oil, ½ Tsp salt, ½ Tsp black pepper, ½ Tsp paprika, ½ Tsp garlic powder
Place the potatoes into your air fryer’s basket or rack in a single layer, allowing some air space between them. Note: you can skewer them first if you like for stability, and ease of flipping, but this is optional
Cook on the air fry setting at 400°F for 20-25 minutes (flipping after 10 minutes and adding more seasoning if desired) until they are browned and pierce easily with a fork
Top with fresh herbs or parmesan cheese if desired and serve hot
Notes
I prefer Yukon Gold potatoes for this, but you can also use Russet or red potatoes (though the flavor and cooking times will vary)
You can swap in butter (or a vegan butter alternative) instead of the olive oil if preferred
All seasonings are adjustable to taste and you can try different seasonings as well. Thyme, parsley, and rosemary are other great options, or add Cajun seasoning or chili powder for a little heat. Even french fry seasoning is great!
Dipping sauces are entirely optional, but I usually opt for ketchup, garlic aioli, chimichurri, or chipotle aioli
If your air fryer basket is not nonstick, you will want to spray or brush it with oil or use parchment to prevent the potatoes from sticking
I do not preheat my air fryer for this recipe. However, if you do, you can generally cut 3-5 minutes off cooking time
The cut potatoes will start to soften as they cook. I highly recommend a spatula to flip them so they don’t fall apart (or you can skewer them before cooking to hold them together)
This recipe was made in my Ninja air fryer and my potatoes were browned and cooked after 20 minutes (without preheating). Other air fryers and potato sizes may vary slightly, so adjust as needed
Store leftover accordion potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days
To reheat, air fry at a lower temperature of 350°F for 3-5 minutes, depending on your air fryer and the size and variety of your potatoes
Exact nutritional values will vary based on brand and flavor of ingredients, any dipping sauces or other seasonings added, size of potatoes, and total quantity consumed, so please consider this a guideline only
I enjoy trying new recipes, creating my own, and dabbling with new techniques all the time. My husband loves to protest when I make him my guinea pig, but it’s all for the love of food!
My cooking philosophy is that great tasting food doesn't have to be complicated or time consuming to make. I'm a home cook with over 20 years of experience feeding myself and others. I've learned from a variety of different people, things I've learned online, and some trial and error as well.
I enjoy cooking a variety of foods, from convenience to comfort foods, as well as international cuisine. You can rest assured that all of my recipes have been actually made, thoroughly tested, and most importantly: tasted! I want you to enjoy my food as much as I do!
