Air Fryer Mini Baked Potato Bites
These Air Fryer Mini Baked Potato Bites are little pockets of crispy, fluffy potato goodness that are perfect for a quick snack or a fun side dish. The outside gets…
Tip: save now, cook later.These Air Fryer Mini Baked Potato Bites are little pockets of crispy, fluffy potato goodness that are perfect for a quick snack or a fun side dish. The outside gets wonderfully crunchy thanks to the air fryer, while the inside stays soft and creamy. Topped with melted cheese, crispy bacon bits, and a dollop of sour cream, they’re as tasty as they are cute.
I love making these when I need something warm and satisfying but don’t want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. Using the air fryer means they cook up fast and get that perfect crunch without any extra oil. Plus, you can easily customize the toppings to fit your mood—add chives, jalapeños, or even a sprinkle of your favorite seasoning blend.
When I serve these potato bites, they always disappear in no time. They’re great for casual gatherings, movie nights, or when kids want a fun finger food. I especially enjoy pairing them with a cold drink and good company—the simple joy of tasty bites always brings a smile. Give them a try—you might find yourself making them again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mini Potatoes: Baby Yukon gold or red potatoes work best because they are small and cook quickly with tender insides. If you don’t have mini potatoes, you can cut regular potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
Olive Oil: This helps the skins crisp up nicely. If you want a different flavor, try avocado oil or melted butter instead.
Cheese: Cheddar melts beautifully and adds great flavor. You can swap it for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a dairy-free cheese if needed.
Sour Cream: It adds creaminess and a touch of tang. For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt or a plant-based sour cream.
Chives or Green Onions: Fresh herbs brighten the dish. If you don’t have these, parsley or dill works well too.
How Do You Get Crispy, Fluffy Potato Bites in the Air Fryer?
Getting the right texture is all about prep and timing. Here’s how I do it:
- Scrub the potatoes clean and dry them well—wet skins won’t crisp up properly.
- Coat with oil and seasonings so every bite has flavor.
- Cook in a single layer—not crowded—to let hot air circulate.
- Shake the basket about halfway through for even cooking.
- Check tenderness with a fork before pulling them out.
- After cutting them open, fluff the insides gently to let cheese melt in better.
Follow these steps, and you’ll get potato bites that are crispy outside and soft inside every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – it crisps the potatoes perfectly without extra oil and cooks them fast.
- Mixing bowl – for tossing the potatoes with oil and seasonings evenly.
- Sharp knife – needed to make the slit in the potatoes so you can open them up.
- Tongs or heatproof gloves – to handle the hot potatoes safely when removing from the air fryer.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Switch cheddar for pepper jack cheese to add a bit of spicy kick.
- Top with cooked crumbled bacon for a smoky, salty flavor boost.
- Add finely chopped jalapeños or green chilies for extra heat and freshness.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for more savory depth.
How to Make Air Fryer Mini Baked Potato Bites?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 mini potatoes (baby Yukon gold or red potatoes)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions
Optional Toppings:
- Cooked and crumbled bacon bits
- Ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to cook. Total time is roughly 30 minutes, including a few minutes to cool potatoes before stuffing and melting the cheese. Quick and easy for a tasty side or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Season the Potatoes:
First, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Thoroughly scrub the mini potatoes and pat them dry. Toss them in a bowl with olive oil, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper until all are well coated.
2. Cook the Potatoes in the Air Fryer:
Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork and have crispy skins.
3. Stuff and Finish:
Carefully remove the potatoes and let them cool just enough to handle. Use a small knife to make a slit across the top of each potato and gently squeeze to open them up. Fluff the insides with a fork, then fill with shredded cheddar cheese. Return the stuffed potatoes to the air fryer for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts. Top with a dollop of sour cream, chopped chives, and optional bacon bits. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Can I Use Frozen Mini Potatoes for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh mini potatoes for crispy skins and fluffy insides. If you only have frozen ones, thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid extra moisture.
Can I Make These Potato Bites Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare and cook the potatoes ahead, then refrigerate them. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
What Are Good Substitutes for Cheddar Cheese?
Feel free to swap cheddar with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a different flavor. For dairy-free options, use your favorite vegan cheese.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover potato bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best texture, or use the microwave for convenience.