If there’s one thing my air fryer does really well, it’s turning simple ingredients into a meal that feels like a treat.
These Air Fryer Bacon and Cheese Potato Slices are one of those recipes that disappear almost as fast as I make them.
Crispy potato rounds get topped with melted cheddar, crunchy bacon, and fresh chives for a quick appetizer or fun side dish. You only need two potatoes and a handful of basic ingredients, and they’re ready in under 25 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s made with simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The air fryer makes the potatoes crispy without needing deep frying.
It’s ready in under 25 minutes from start to finish.
It works as a side dish, party appetizer, or game day snack.
You can easily double the batch if you’re feeding a crowd.
Ingredients You’ll Need
2 medium russet potatoes
3 slices bacon
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 stalks fresh chives
1–2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
How to Cook Bacon and Cheese Potato Slices in an Air Fryer
1. Cook the bacon. In a skillet over medium-low heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate to drain, then crumble into small pieces.
2. Prep the potatoes. Wash the potatoes well and slice them into ¼-inch thick rounds. Dice the chives.
3. Oil and season. Lightly brush both sides of each potato slice with olive oil. Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Air fry. Cook at 400°F for 17–18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the slices are tender and lightly crisp on the edges.
5. Add toppings. Top each slice with shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, and a few chives.
6. Melt the cheese. Return to the air fryer for about 2 more minutes, just until the cheese is melted.
7. Serve. Remove from the air fryer and serve hot.
Recipe Notes
Slice Evenly: Try to cut the potatoes into even ¼-inch slices so they cook at the same rate. Thicker slices will need a few extra minutes.
Do Not Overcrowd: Arrange the slices in a single layer. If needed, cook in batches. Overcrowding will prevent them from getting crispy.
Cheese Options: Cheddar works great, but you can also use Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican blend.
Make It Ahead: You can cook the bacon earlier in the day and keep it in the fridge until ready to use.
Best Served Hot: These are best right out of the air fryer while the cheese is melted and the edges are crisp.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these as a party appetizer with sour cream or ranch on the side for dipping.
Pair them with burgers, grilled chicken, or steak for an easy dinner side.
Add a dollop of sour cream and extra chives on top for a loaded potato feel.
They also work great as a game day snack alongside wings and sliders.
If you want to make them a little heartier, top with a spoonful of chili before adding the cheese.