Loaded Air Fryer Potato Wedges
I started making these wedges when my family asked for something more exciting than regular fries and now they request them any time we have friends over The air fryer makes them crispier than oven baking and I love seeing the cheese bubble just before serving
Ingredients
- Russet potatoes: Give the best fluffy interior and crisp shell Choose ones with smooth unblemished skins
- Baking soda: Helps break down the potato surface for that extra crispiness Use fresh baking soda for best results
- Olive oil: Adds richness while ensuring even browning Pick a fruity flavorful oil for best taste
- Garlic butter seasoning or your favorite potato seasoning: Infuses the wedges with bold flavor I love the Heath Riles blend but any favorite works here
- Shredded Colby Jack cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a creamy finish Look for freshly shredded for best melt
- Bacon: Crumbled for smoky savory crunch Thick cut bacon holds up best
- Green onions: Bring a pop of freshness and color Choose firm bright onions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Potatoes:
- Rinse the potatoes well to remove all dirt then cut them into even wedges so they cook evenly You want similar sizes for the best results
- Boil for Crispiness:
- Fill a large pot with water add baking soda and bring to a boil Carefully place the potato wedges in and boil for about six to eight minutes Check with a fork but pull them out before they get too soft This step is the secret to that perfect fluffy inside
- Drain and Season:
- Pour the wedges into a large colander to remove excess water Move them to a big bowl while still warm Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle in your seasoning Toss gently with your hands or shake the bowl so every wedge gets coated
- Air Fry Until Golden:
- Place the seasoned wedges in a single layer in your air fryer basket Set to four hundred degrees and cook for twenty to twenty five minutes Turn them once or twice so all sides get crispy edges watch for that deep golden color
- Cheese and Bacon Finish:
- Remove the basket sprinkle the hot wedges with shredded Colby Jack and crumbled bacon Return to the air fryer for one to two minutes just until the cheese is oozy and bubbling
- Garnish and Serve:
- Transfer the cheesy wedges to a platter Scatter with fresh chopped green onions Serve hot with your favorite ranch or any dipping sauce you love
The Colby Jack cheese is always my favorite part because it gets all melty and golden in the air fryer I remember the first time my son dove in for the biggest wedge and his smile was worth every bit of cleanup My family practically fights over the crispy ones with extra bacon
Storage Tips
Let any leftovers cool completely then transfer to an airtight container Refrigerate for up to three days Reheat in the air fryer for five minutes to restore crispiness The cheese and bacon still taste amazing even the next day
Ingredient Substitutions
Try Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier interior or swap in sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness If you do not have Colby Jack use cheddar Pepper Jack or mozzarella You can substitute turkey bacon for a lighter touch or sprinkle smoked paprika for an extra kick
Pro Tips
- Always parboil with baking soda because it gives that signature fluffy crisp bite
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket so each wedge gets perfectly golden edges
- Add cheese only at the very end so it stays soft and stretchy rather than hardening
