Craving something crispy, cheesy, and totally irresistible? You’re not alone.
Over 70% of home cooks say they use their air fryer at least three times a week—especially for quick snacks like potato wedges.
And when you add gooey melted cheese to the mix? Pure heaven.
We’ll show you exactly how to make air fryer cheesy potato wedges that are golden brown on the outside, soft and fluffy inside, and loaded with cheesy goodness.
Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, need an easy side dish, or just want something ridiculously satisfying, this recipe is your new go-to.
Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Cheesy Potato Wedges
- Ultra crispy exterior with a soft, fluffy center
- Faster and healthier than deep-frying
- Just a handful of pantry ingredients needed
- Totally customizable with your favorite toppings
- Perfect for parties, snacks, or side dishes
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the ultimate air fryer cheesy potato wedges, here’s what you’ll need:
- Potatoes – Russet or Yukon gold work best for crispiness and texture
- Olive oil – Helps the seasoning stick and encourages browning
- Cheese – Sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack melt beautifully
- Spices – Garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper
- Optional add-ons – Bacon bits, green onions, sour cream, ranch dressing
How to Make Cheesy Potato Wedges in the Air Fryer
Follow these simple steps for foolproof results:
- Prep the potatoes: Wash and cut into wedges. Try to keep them uniform for even cooking.
- Soak the wedges: Soak in cold water for 15–30 minutes to remove excess starch (this helps them crisp up). Pat dry.
- Season: Toss with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Air fry: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Cook the wedges in a single layer for 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Add the cheese: In the last 2–3 minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded cheese over the wedges and cook until melted and bubbly.
Tips for Ultra-Crispy Wedges
- Don’t skip the soak. Removing surface starch helps potatoes get crisp without drying out.
- Dry thoroughly. Damp wedges will steam instead of crisp.
- Air fry in batches. Avoid overcrowding the basket for even air circulation.
- Use a liner if needed. Parchment paper with holes can make cleanup easier and prevent sticking.
Flavor Variations and Topping Ideas
Once you’ve mastered the base recipe, you can get creative:
- Buffalo-style: Toss with hot sauce and crumble blue cheese on top
- Tex-Mex: Add black beans, jalapeños, queso fresco, and cilantro
- Italian-style: Use parmesan and serve with warm marinara for dipping
- Breakfast version: Top with scrambled eggs, bacon crumbles, and a drizzle of hollandaise
What to Serve with Cheesy Potato Wedges
These cheesy potato wedges are satisfying on their own but also pair well with:
- Dipping sauces – Ranch, chipotle mayo, BBQ sauce, or sour cream
- Main dishes – Burgers, grilled chicken, sandwiches, or BBQ
- Party platters – Add to a spread with sliders, nachos, or wings
Storage and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Here’s how to keep them tasting great:
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Freezer: Freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag or container
- Reheating: Air fry at 375°F for 5–7 minutes until hot and crisp again. Sprinkle a bit of extra cheese just before serving, if desired.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using waxy potatoes: Stick to starchy varieties like Russets for best texture
- Skipping the soak: This step really makes a difference in crispiness
- Adding cheese too early: It can burn. Wait until the last few minutes
- Overcrowding: Always cook in a single layer for even results
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I skip soaking the potato wedges?
It’s not mandatory, but soaking helps remove excess starch, which results in crispier wedges. If you’re short on time, pat them very dry and proceed.
Can I make these wedges ahead of time?
Yes, you can cut and soak the wedges in advance and store them in water in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Cook and add cheese just before serving for best texture.
Can I use sweet potatoes instead?
You can, but sweet potatoes don’t get as crispy. Adjust cook time slightly and expect a softer interior.
Crispy Air Fryer Cheesy Potato Wedges Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 large russet potatoes or 3 medium-sized
- 1½ tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or a mix of cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack
Optional toppings:
- 2 tablespoons green onions sliced
- 2 tablespoons bacon bits
- Sour cream or ranch for dipping
Instructions
- Prep the potatoes: Wash and cut into wedges. Try to keep them uniform for even cooking.
- Soak the wedges: Soak in cold water for 15–30 minutes to remove excess starch (this helps them crisp up). Pat dry.
- Season: Toss with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Air fry: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Cook the wedges in a single layer for 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Add the cheese: In the last 2–3 minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded cheese over the wedges and cook until melted and bubbly.