These loaded air fryer fries are a delicious and crispy snack or side dish, perfect for any occasion. Made with fresh potatoes and topped with your favorite ingredients, they offer a satisfying crunch and flavor.
The recipe is simple and quick, utilizing an air fryer for a healthier twist on traditional loaded fries. Customize them with toppings like cheese, bacon, and green onions to suit your taste.
Crispy Loaded Fries in the Air Fryer
Loaded air fryer fries bring a delightful crunch and flavor that can elevate any meal or snack time.
These fries are not just ordinary; they are transformed into a mouthwatering dish with the addition of melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions.
The air fryer method ensures that the fries achieve that perfect golden brown color while remaining lighter than traditional frying methods.
Preparation Steps
To start, fresh russet potatoes are the star of this recipe.
After washing and cutting them into fry shapes, soaking them in water helps to remove excess starch, which is key for achieving that crispy texture.
Once drained and dried, the fries are tossed in olive oil, salt, and pepper, ensuring each piece is well-coated for optimal flavor.
Cooking the Fries
The air fryer is preheated to 400°F (200°C), a crucial step to ensure the fries cook evenly and develop a satisfying crunch.
Arranging the fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket allows for proper air circulation, which is essential for that crispy finish.
Cooking for 15-20 minutes, with a shake halfway through, guarantees that each fry is cooked to perfection.
Adding Toppings
Once the fries are golden and crispy, it’s time for the fun part—adding toppings!
Sprinkling shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon over the hot fries allows the cheese to melt beautifully, creating a gooey, savory layer.
A quick return to the air fryer for an additional 2-3 minutes ensures that the toppings are perfectly melted and integrated.
Serving Suggestions
To finish off this delicious dish, a sprinkle of chopped green onions adds a fresh, vibrant touch.
These loaded fries can be served immediately, ensuring that every bite is warm and satisfying.
Pairing them with a small bowl of sour cream on the side provides a creamy contrast that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s game day, a movie night, or just a casual gathering, these loaded air fryer fries are a crowd-pleaser.
Their crispy texture and rich toppings make them a delightful snack or side dish that everyone will enjoy.
With a preparation time of just 30 minutes, they are a convenient option for any occasion.
Crispy Loaded Fries in the Air Fryer
This recipe features crispy air-fried potato fries topped with melted cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions. It takes about 30 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 4 medium russet potatoes, cut into fries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Sour cream for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Potatoes: Wash and cut the russet potatoes into fries. Soak them in water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch, then drain and pat dry.
- Season the Fries: In a large bowl, toss the fries with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Air Fry the Fries: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Add Toppings: Once the fries are cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon over the hot fries. Return to the air fryer for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted.
- Serve: Remove the loaded fries from the air fryer and top with chopped green onions. Serve immediately with sour cream on the side, if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 35g