If you’re a fan of cheese and fries, then you’re in for a treat! In this article, we will be sharing a delicious and easy recipe on how to make cheese fries in an air fryer. Air fryers have gained popularity in recent years due to their ability to crisp up food without the need for excessive oil. So, if you’re looking for a healthier version of cheesy fries, the air fryer is your best friend!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather the essential ingredients you’ll need. They include:
For the Fries:
– Potatoes (3 to 4 medium-sized ones)
– Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
– Salt (to taste)
For the Cheese Topping:
– Cheddar cheese (1 cup, shredded)
– Mozzarella cheese (1/2 cup, shredded)
– Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step process of making these delectable cheese fries!
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly under running water. Once cleaned, peel them and cut them into your desired fry shape. Some prefer thin fries, while others prefer thicker ones. It’s entirely up to your personal taste!
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer
Next, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial to ensure perfectly crispy fries.
Step 3: Toss the Potatoes with Olive Oil
In a large bowl, transfer the cut potatoes and drizzle them with the 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Make sure each fry is well-coated. Sprinkle some salt over the fries according to your taste preferences, and give them a good toss to distribute the seasoning evenly.
Step 4: Fry the Potatoes
Now, it’s time to cook the potatoes in the air fryer. Place the seasoned fries into the air fryer basket, making sure they are in a single layer. Crowding the fries may lead to unevenly cooked results. Cook them at 400°F (200°C) for around 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Prepare the Cheese Topping
While the fries are cooking, it’s the perfect time to prepare the cheese topping. Take your cup of shredded cheddar cheese and half a cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and mix them together in a separate bowl. Combining different types of cheese adds a delightful blend of flavors to your fries!
Step 6: Add the Cheese Topping
Once the fries are perfectly cooked, remove them from the air fryer and transfer them to an oven-safe dish or baking sheet. Sprinkle the cheese mixture generously over the hot fries, ensuring an even coverage.
Step 7: Melt the Cheese
Now, it’s time to melt the cheese! Preheat your oven’s broiler to high and place the dish with the fries and cheese topping under the broiler. Keep a close eye on them, as the cheese can melt quickly. The broiling process should take around 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once the cheese has reached the desired level of meltiness and gooiness, remove the dish from the oven. Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for added freshness and flavor. Your cheesy fries are now ready to be devoured!
Tips and Variations
– If you’re feeling adventurous, you can experiment with different types of cheeses for your topping. Gouda, pepper jack, or even blue cheese can add an exciting twist to your cheese fries.
– Feel free to season your fries with various spices like paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder before air frying them for additional flavor.
– For a bit of a kick, you can add some sliced jalapeños or sprinkle cayenne pepper on top of the cheese before broiling.
– Serve your cheese fries with your favorite dipping sauce. Ketchup, mayonnaise or even a tangy barbecue sauce are popular choices.
The Perfect Combination of Crunchy and Cheesy
Making cheese fries in an air fryer is not only convenient but also results in a satisfyingly crispy texture. With this easy recipe, you can enjoy the guilty pleasure of cheesy fries without the guilt of excessive oil. This versatile dish is perfect as a snack, party appetizer, or even a side dish for hamburgers or hotdogs. So, why not give it a try? Fire up your air fryer and indulge in the mouthwatering combination of crunchy potatoes and oozy cheese!