Loaded Airfryer Potatoes with Bacon

Name: Loaded Airfryer Potatoes with Bacon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium-sized russet potatoes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon; 1/4 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup sliced green onions

Highlighted under: Cozy Classics

I absolutely love making Loaded Airfryer Potatoes with Bacon because they offer an exciting twist on a classic side dish. The crispy, golden exterior paired with creamy toppings makes them irresistibly delicious. Plus, using the air fryer means they cook quickly and with less oil, giving me that guilt-free comfort food experience. Every bite is packed with flavor and texture, making them perfect for game nights or cozy dinners. I can’t wait to share this recipe with you!

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:50:27.942Z

When I first tried making Loaded Airfryer Potatoes with Bacon, I was pleasantly surprised at how simple the process was while still delivering on taste. Using the air fryer, I discovered that I could achieve that perfect crispy finish without all the extra oil typically needed for frying. This not only cuts down on calories but also makes cleanup a breeze.

One of my favorite tips is to give the potatoes a good scrub and dry before seasoning. This helps the skin crisp up beautifully. Adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika along with the usual salt enhances the overall flavor profile, taking these potatoes to the next level!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crispy skin that contrasts perfectly with creamy toppings
Loaded with flavor from savory bacon and melty cheese
Quick and easy preparation in an air fryer

Perfecting the Potatoes

Choosing the right potatoes is crucial to the success of Loaded Airfryer Potatoes. Medium-sized russet potatoes are ideal because they have a high starch content, resulting in a fluffy interior once cooked. Make sure to scrub them thoroughly to remove any dirt and oils. By drying them completely before seasoning, you ensure a crispier skin, thanks to the Maillard reaction that occurs during cooking.

Cutting the potatoes into wedges not only increases the surface area for that delightful crunch but also helps them cook evenly. Aim for uniform sizes when cutting—about 1-inch thick pieces work well. If you prefer more crunch, you can soak the cut potatoes in cold water for about 30 minutes to remove excess starch, but be sure to dry them well before oiling to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Air Frying Tips

When using the air fryer, ensure that the potato wedges are in a single layer to allow even airflow. If your air fryer is small, consider cooking in batches. Cooking at 400°F is optimal for achieving that perfect crispy exterior while keeping the interior fluffy. Remember to shake the basket halfway through cooking; this not only helps to evenly cook the potatoes but also promotes that attractive golden color.

Keep an eye on the potatoes during the final minutes of cooking, especially after adding the cheese and bacon. The ideal cheese-melting point occurs around 3-4 minutes, at which point the cheese should be bubbly and starting to brown slightly on the edges, enhancing both flavor and texture.

Ingredients

For the Potatoes

4 medium-sized russet potatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Topping

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup sliced green onions

Steps

Prepare the Potatoes

Scrub the russet potatoes well and dry them completely. Cut each potato in half lengthwise and then into quarters. In a bowl, toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika until evenly coated.

Cook in the Air Fryer

Place the seasoned potato wedges in the air fryer basket, making sure they are in a single layer. Cook at 400°F for 25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Add the Toppings

Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the air fryer and top with cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon. Return to the air fryer for an additional 3-4 minutes until the cheese is melted.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the loaded potatoes to a serving plate. Drizzle with sour cream and sprinkle sliced green onions on top. Serve hot and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For even crispier potatoes, consider soaking the cut potatoes in water for 30 minutes before cooking to help remove excess starch. Dry them thoroughly before seasoning.

Flavor Variations

While cheddar cheese and bacon are classic toppings, feel free to customize your Loaded Potatoes based on your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder before air frying. If you're seeking a healthier option, substitute turkey bacon or even a meat alternative. You can also experiment with different cheese types, such as pepper jack or gouda, for a unique flavor twist.

For a gourmet touch, trade the sour cream for Greek yogurt and mix in a few herbs like dill or chives. This not only adds flavor but also increases the protein content, making your side dish a bit more substantial.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Prepared potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Before serving, reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. You can also freeze cooked potato wedges for up to a month. To do this, allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a sealed freezer bag for space-saving storage.

When you're ready to eat your frozen Loaded Potatoes, there's no need to thaw; simply air fry them directly from the freezer at 400°F for 15-20 minutes. Just be mindful to check for doneness and adjust timing as necessary based on the size of the wedges.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix it up with your favorite melty cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack.

→ What other toppings can I add?

You can add jalapeños, avocado, or even a sprinkle of ranch seasoning for an extra kick.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best results.

→ Can I make these potatoes ahead of time?

You can prep the potatoes and season them earlier in the day. Just air fry them fresh when you're ready to serve!