Air Fryer Accordion Potatoes Recipe

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Cozy Air Fryer Accordion Potatoes Recipe, Made Simple

There’s something deeply satisfying about the humble potato transformed into golden, toasty accordion slices. I love how this Air Fryer Accordion Potatoes Recipe turns simple ingredients into a dish that’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and full of buttery olive oil goodness. It’s the kind of comfort food you’ll want to make again and again on weekends when you have a moment to slow down. If you’ve never tried accordion potatoes before, think of them like a crispy layered surprise—perfectly seasoned and cooked just right in your air fryer, no deep frying or heavy ovens needed. You’ll find the process easy to master, and the results speak for themselves with that satisfying crunch and aroma that fills your kitchen. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a snack to share with friends, these potatoes bring warmth and charm to the table. Let’s get into what makes this recipe stand out and how you can bring it to life in your own kitchen.

Ingredient Lowdown

• Golden potatoes (2 lbs): Choose potatoes with smooth skin and firm flesh—they hold shape beautifully and crisp up nicely in the air fryer.
• Olive oil (5 tbsp): Adds a rich, buttery note and helps achieve that perfect crispy edge without greasiness.
• Salt, to taste: Enhances flavor and brings out the natural sweetness of the potatoes. Sea salt or kosher salt works best for texture balance.

Set Up for Success

Before you start slicing, prep your station to make the process smooth and enjoyable. Peel your golden potatoes and rinse them under cold water to wash away excess starch—that step ensures your accordion slices aren’t too gummy. I like to pat them dry thoroughly with kitchen towels; moisture is the enemy of crispy edges. Make sure your air fryer is preheated to 350°F (175°C)—this steady temperature helps the potatoes cook evenly and develop that signature golden crust. You don’t need any extra pans since the air fryer basket does all the work for crisping.

Step-by-Step: Air Fryer Accordion Potatoes Recipe

1. Peel and rinse your potatoes. Dry them well to avoid sogginess. I always find that starting with dry potatoes sets us up for crisp success.
2. Slice potatoes into rounds about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. This thickness strikes the ideal balance—thin enough to have crisp edges, thick enough to stay tender inside.
3. Prepare your accordion cuts. Lay the potato slices flat on the board. Place chopsticks or wooden spoons on each side of the slice—this clever trick stops your knife from cutting all the way through. Now slice thinly on one side, then flip and slice diagonally across the other side. You’ll get those beautiful accordion folds that hold oil and seasoning so well.
4. Coat generously with olive oil and season with salt. I recommend using your hands to gently massage the oil and salt into each potato. This tactile step ensures every nook and cranny gets flavor and encourages singed, toasty edges.
5. Air fry at 350°F for 30-35 minutes. Halfway through, carefully flip the potatoes for even browning. Keep your senses tuned—you want a golden, crisp surface with soft, buttery interiors. The aroma will be inviting and rich.
6. Serve hot. These potatoes are best enjoyed right out of the air fryer—still warm with that irresistible crispness. I love them alongside roasted meats or a fresh green salad to balance the richness.

Flavor Twists for Air Fryer Accordion Potatoes Recipe

• Add finely chopped fresh rosemary or thyme for an herbaceous lift.
• Sprinkle grated Parmesan or crumbled feta just after cooking for a salty, cheesy finish.
• Toss with smoked paprika and a pinch of cayenne for a smoky, mildly spicy kick.
• Replace olive oil with browned butter for a nutty, richer flavor profile.
• Add minced garlic or garlic powder for aromatic depth.
• Drizzle with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice after air frying to brighten the dish.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven to restore crispness.
• Freezing: Pre-cook and cool fully, then freeze in a single layer. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F until warmed and crispy again.
• Make-ahead: Slice and prep potato “accordions” up to a day in advance; keep them wrapped tightly in the fridge until ready to oil and season.
• Reheating: Skip the microwave to avoid sogginess; air fryer or toaster oven will bring back that delightful crunch.

Air Fryer Accordion Potatoes Recipe FAQs

• Can I use other types of potatoes? Absolutely, but waxy or all-purpose potatoes like Yukon Gold work best for holding their shape and crisping up evenly.
• Do I need to peel the potatoes? Peeling is optional—you can leave skins on for more texture and nutrients, just scrub them well.
• How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking? Generous olive oil coating ensures they don’t stick to the air fryer basket and creates that crisp bite you want.
• Can I add other spices? Yes! Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices, but keep balance in mind—potatoes have a delicate flavor.
• What size air fryer works best? Any standard air fryer size is fine; just avoid overcrowding for best crisping results.

Print