Air Fryer Loaded Potato Rounds

These air fryer loaded potato rounds bring all the flavors of a classic loaded baked potato in an easy, bite-sized form.

They’re a delicious appetizer that takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, making them a perfect addition to game-day spreads, party snacks, or as a side dish for gatherings.

If you love easy Air Fryer Appetizer Recipes, try my recipe for Air Fryer Babybel Cheese, Air Fryer BBQ Potato Chips, or Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips.

Check Out Our YouTube Channel, and Subscribe Today!

​Ingredients

Here are the simple ingredients, you will need:

​Remember the step-by-step directions below in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post and the nutritional information. 

• ​Potatoes: use Russet potatoes for the best flavor.
• Oil: Use high-heat oil, such as olive oil, avocado oil, or extra virgin olive oil.
• Seasonings: Kosher Salt and Black Pepper
• Cheese: Shredded Cheddar Cheese or Parmesan Cheese
• Bacon: Use crispy cooked bacon. Air Fryer Bacon is perfect here!
• Toppings: Sour Cream, Chives, or fresh herbs.

How To Make Air Fryer Loaded Potato Rounds

Here are the step-by-step instructions:

​Step One: Wash the potatoes under cold running water, scrubbing the skin gently with a vegetable brush or your hands to remove any dirt and debris; rinse thoroughly. Dry the potatoes with paper towels to remove excess moisture

​Step Two: Using a sharp knife or mandolin, carefully slice the potatoes into rounds approximately 1/3 to 1/2 inch thick. In a large bowl, mix together the potato slices, olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss well to ensure the potatoes are evenly coated with oil and seasonings. 

Step Three: Place the potatoes into the air fryer basket in a single layer, set the cooking temperature to 370 degrees F using the air fryer setting, and set the cook time for 10-15 minutes. For best results, flip the potatoes halfway during the cooking process. Remove when fork tender and golden brown. 

Step Four: Add your favorite toppings. If you want melty cheese, add the cheese to the potato slices, and allow the air fryer to cook for 2-3 minutes more. 

Other Topping Suggestions

If you’re looking to switch things up from the classic loaded potato toppings, here are a few delicious alternatives to try:

• BBQ Pork: Go Southern-style with shredded BBQ pork for a smoky, savory option that’s sure to satisfy. For extra crunch and flavor, try adding small crackling bits on top.
• Chili: Top your potato rounds with a hearty homemade chili for a rich and comforting variation. It pairs excellently with cheddar cheese and a small dollop of sour cream.
• Guacamole: For a vegan and fresher option, top your rounds with guacamole and diced tomatoes for a vibrant and fresh flavor combination.

Air Fryer Loaded Potato Rounds Recipe Tips

• ​The Dry the Potatoes Thoroughly: After washing the potatoes, dry them thoroughly using paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Excess moisture can make the potatoes less crispy, so ensure they’re as dry as possible before cooking.
• Avoid Overcrowding the Air Fryer: For the crispiest potato rounds, arrange the slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If the slices overlap or the basket is too full, the hot air won’t circulate evenly, resulting in unevenly cooked and less crispy potatoes. If needed, cook the potato rounds in batches to ensure each round gets perfectly crispy.
• Use a Mandolin for Even Slices: If you have a mandolin on hand, it’s perfect for slicing the potatoes to a uniform thickness. Choose a thickness between 1/3 to 1/2 inch, and slice them all the same size for even cooking.

Storage and Leftovers

These air fryer potato rounds store and reheat better without toppings, so if you plan to make them in advance, it’s best to keep them plain and add toppings just before serving.

Without Toppings Added

If you have leftover potato rounds without toppings, allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (177°C) and cook for 3-5 minutes until they’re crispy and hot throughout.

With Cheese and Bacon Added

For potato rounds that already have melted cheese and bacon added, let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the potatoes are hot throughout.

Air Fryer Loaded Potato Rounds Recipe Faqs

Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes, simply use vegetarian toppings. If you want to stick with the classic loaded potato style, you can substitute the bacon with a plant-based option like air fryer carrot bacon, which offers a similar salty flavor and crispy texture.

Can I freeze these potato rounds? Yes, you can freeze the potato rounds, but it’s best to do so without the toppings added. After cooking, allow the rounds to cool completely, then store them in a single layer in a freezer bag or airtight container. When you’re ready to use them, thaw the potato rounds in the refrigerator overnight or on the kitchen countertop for a few hours. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350°F (177°C) for 3-5 minutes or until they are hot and crispy again. Once reheated, add your desired toppings just before serving.

Do I have to soak the potatoes in cold water before air frying? You don’t have to soak the potatoes, as they will still come out crispy without soaking. However, soaking them for at least 30 minutes helps draw out excess starch, which can make them crispier. If you have time, you can! Just make sure to dry each slice thoroughly before air frying.

​​More Air Fryer Recipes

• Air Fryer Crispy Bacon
• Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes
• Easy Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes
• Air Fryer Potato Wedges

Don’t Forget To Pin!​