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Air Fryer Recipes for Beginners 2024: Best Scalloped Potatoes

As the popularity of air fryers continues to soar, more and more home cooks are eager to explore the inventive and healthier possibilities this versatile kitchen appliance offers. If you’re a beginner looking to take your culinary skills to the next level, why not start with a classic comfort dish? Today, we’re diving into an easy yet decadent recipe for scalloped potatoes that’s perfect for the air fryer!

What Are Scalloped Potatoes?

Scalloped potatoes are a timeless dish made with thinly sliced potatoes layered in a creamy sauce, typically involving cheese and a blend of herbs and spices. This indulgent side dish often graces family gatherings, holidays, and comforting dinners. The beauty of air-frying scalloped potatoes is that you can achieve the same crispy edges and creamy centre with less cooking time and fat compared to traditional oven baking.

Why Use an Air Fryer?

Air fryers are beloved for their ability to create crispy, golden dishes while using considerably less oil than frying or baking. This means you can enjoy your favourite foods with a fraction of the calories – perfect for those who are health-conscious but still want to indulge. With the air fryer, you can also save time, as it heats up quickly and cooks food consistently, making it a fantastic tool for beginners.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Scalloped Potatoes

For this delectable scalloped potatoes recipe, you’ll need:

• 500g of starchy potatoes (like Maris Piper or Yukon Gold)
• 200ml of double cream
• 100ml of milk
• 150g of grated cheese (Cheddar works wonderfully)
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme (or fresh, if you have it!)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
• Cooking spray or a dash of olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Potatoes: Begin by peeling the potatoes and slicing them thinly (about 2-3 mm thick). A mandoline slicer works beautifully for this, ensuring even slices.

2. Make the Cream Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the double cream, milk, minced garlic, thyme, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Whisk together until well blended.

3. Layer the Potatoes: In an ovenproof dish that fits your air fryer basket (make sure it’s suitable for high temperatures), layer the sliced potatoes. Pour a bit of the cream mixture over the first layer and sprinkle with some grated cheese. Repeat this process until all ingredients are used up, finishing with a layer of cream and a generous topping of cheese.

4. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 160°C (320°F) for about 5 minutes.

5. Air Fry the Scalloped Potatoes: Once preheated, lightly spray the basket with cooking spray. Carefully place the dish in the air fryer and cook for about 25-30 minutes, checking halfway through. You may need to cover the top with a piece of foil if it browns too quickly.

6. Check for Doneness: The potatoes should be tender and the top should be golden brown. You can check the doneness by poking the centre with a fork; it should slide in easily.

7. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, carefully remove the dish from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with roasts or can be enjoyed on its own as a comforting meal.

Tips for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes

• Choosing the Right Potato: Opt for starchy potatoes for a creamier texture. Waxy potatoes can turn out too firm.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and good-quality cheese can make a significant difference in flavour.
• Experiment with Flavours: Feel free to add your own twist with ingredients like cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or different cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella.

Final Thoughts

Air fryer scalloped potatoes are an easy, delicious way to impress your family and friends while building your confidence in the kitchen. The combination of creamy layers and crispy tops will have everyone coming back for seconds. As you embark on your air-frying adventures, remember that practice makes perfect, and cooking should always be fun. Share your culinary creations with friends on Facebook, and don’t hesitate to explore further recipes that can elevate your meals!

Happy cooking in 2024!

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