Get ready to transform your ordinary weeknight dinner into a mouthwatering masterpiece that'll have everyone begging for seconds! These Air Fryer Cheesy Ham Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food that combines crispy golden potatoes, savory ham, and melted cheese in a quick and easy recipe that'll make you look like a culinary genius. In just 30 minutes, you'll create a dish so delicious, it'll become an instant family favorite that's perfect for busy nights or weekend gatherings.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and dice potatoes into uniform 1/2-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. Pat the potato cubes dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a crispy exterior.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine diced potatoes, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss thoroughly to ensure all potato pieces are evenly coated with seasoning.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for approximately 3-4 minutes. This ensures a hot cooking environment for crispy potatoes.
- Transfer the seasoned potato cubes to the air fryer basket, spreading them in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even browning.
- After initial cooking, add diced ham to the potatoes and mix gently. Continue air frying for an additional 5-7 minutes until potatoes are golden and crisp.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes and ham. Return to the air fryer for 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted and slightly bubbly.
- Carefully remove the cheesy ham potatoes from the air fryer. Let cool for 2-3 minutes to allow cheese to set slightly.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for added color and flavor.
Tips
- Potato Perfection: Always use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for the crispiest results. Cutting them into uniform cubes ensures even cooking.
- Moisture is the Enemy: Pat your potato cubes completely dry before seasoning to achieve that irresistible crispy exterior.
- Don't Overcrowd: Spread potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If needed, cook in batches to ensure maximum crispiness.
- Shake and Rotate: Halfway through cooking, shake the basket to promote even browning and prevent sticking.
- Cheese Timing: Add cheese in the last 2-3 minutes of cooking to prevent burning and achieve that perfect melted consistency.
- Customize Your Flavor: Experiment with different cheese varieties like pepper jack or add some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Serving Suggestion: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives to add a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 40mg
