🍟 How to Make the Best Air Fryer Potato Wedges at Home

🍟 Introduction: Air Fryer Potato Wedges – Crispy, Golden & Irresistible!

If you love crispy, golden-brown potato wedges but want a healthier alternative to deep-frying, then air fryer potato wedges are the perfect solution! These wedges have the ideal balance of a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy inside, all with less oil than traditional frying.

Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a delicious side dish, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, homemade air fryer potato wedges are easy to make and packed with flavor. With just a few simple ingredients and the right cooking method, you can achieve perfectly seasoned, restaurant-quality wedges right in your kitchen.

In this guide, I’ll show you how to make the best air fryer potato wedges at home, including tips on choosing the best potatoes, seasoning for maximum flavor, and cooking them to crispy perfection. Let’s get started! 🚀🍽️

H2: 🥔 Choosing the Best Potatoes for Air Fryer Wedges

 

Choosing the right potato is key to making the best air fryer potato wedges! Different types of potatoes offer unique textures and flavors, so here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:

• Russet Potatoes 🏆 – The best choice for crispy air fryer potato wedges! They have a high starch content and low moisture, which helps create that golden, crunchy exterior while keeping the inside light and fluffy.
• Yukon Gold Potatoes ✨ – These have a creamy, buttery texture and hold their shape well. If you prefer softer, slightly crisp potato wedges, Yukon Gold is a great option.
• Red Potatoes ❤️ – Less starchy and more waxy, red potatoes result in firmer, less crispy wedges. They’re great if you like a denser bite, but they won’t get as crunchy as Russets.

 

When making air fryer potato wedges, the way you cut your potatoes plays a huge role in achieving crispy, evenly cooked results. If your wedges are too thick, they may turn out undercooked inside; too thin, and they might become overly crispy or even burn.

How to Cut Potatoes for Perfect Air Fryer Wedges:

1. Choose medium to large potatoes – This makes it easier to create evenly sized wedges.
2. Cut into uniform wedges – Slice the potato in half lengthwise, then cut each half into 3-4 even wedges, depending on size.
3. Aim for about ½-inch thickness – This ensures the perfect balance of a crispy outside and fluffy inside.

Why Even Size Matters:

✅ Ensures all wedges cook at the same time – No more half-burnt, half-raw wedges!
✅ Better texture – Thick wedges stay fluffy inside, while thin ones crisp up beautifully.
✅ Prevents overcrowding in the air fryer – More airflow = crispier air fryer potato wedges!

 

Want to achieve extra crispy air fryer potato wedges with that perfect golden crunch? The secret is soaking your potato wedges before cooking! This simple step helps remove excess starch, allowing the potatoes to crisp up beautifully in the air fryer instead of turning soggy.

Why Soak Potato Wedges?

✅ Removes excess starch – Starch on the surface can trap moisture, making wedges soft instead of crispy.
✅ Prevents sticking – Less starch means the wedges won’t clump together in the air fryer basket.
✅ Enhances crispiness – Soaked potatoes develop a crispier texture while staying fluffy inside.

How to Soak Potato Wedges for Maximum Crispiness:

1. Cut your potatoes into wedges – Keep them as uniform as possible for even cooking.
2. Place them in cold water – Fill a large bowl with cold water and submerge the wedges.
3. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes – If you have time, an hour is even better!
4. Drain and pat dry thoroughly – Use a clean towel or paper towels to remove excess moisture. Dry wedges = extra crispy air fryer potato wedges!

🌿 Best Seasoning for Crispy Air Fryer Potato Wedges

 

The right seasoning can take your air fryer potato wedges from good to absolutely irresistible! If you love a classic, well-balanced flavor, then a mix of garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper is the perfect combination. These three simple spices enhance the natural taste of potatoes while adding depth and a hint of smokiness.

Why These Seasonings Work So Well

✅ Garlic Powder 🧄 – Adds a savory, aromatic depth that pairs beautifully with crispy potatoes.
✅ Paprika 🌶️ – Brings a mild sweetness and a subtle smoky flavor for extra warmth. You can use smoked paprika for an even richer taste!
✅ Black Pepper ⚫ – Gives a slight heat and enhances all the other flavors, making the wedges more flavorful.

How to Season Your Air Fryer Potato Wedges for the Best Flavor:

1. Toss the wedges in olive oil or spray them lightly – This helps the seasoning stick.
2. Mix your spices – Combine 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, and ½ teaspoon black pepper in a bowl.
3. Coat the potato wedges evenly – Sprinkle the seasoning blend over the wedges and toss until fully coated.
4. Add salt after cooking – This prevents the potatoes from drawing out too much moisture while air frying, keeping them crispy.

 

If you love a little heat in your air fryer potato wedges, adding cayenne pepper or chili flakes is the perfect way to spice things up! A touch of spice enhances the natural flavors of the potatoes while giving them a bold, fiery kick that keeps every bite exciting.

Why Add Spice to Air Fryer Potato Wedges?

✅ Boosts flavor – The heat from cayenne or chili flakes complements the crispy texture.
✅ Customizable heat level – Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
✅ Pairs well with dipping sauces – Spicy wedges go great with cooling dips like ranch or garlic aioli!

How to Add the Perfect Spicy Kick

🔥 Cayenne Pepper – A finely ground spice that delivers a consistent heat throughout your wedges. Start with ¼ teaspoon for mild heat or ½ teaspoon for extra spiciness.
🔥 Red Chili Flakes – Adds bursts of spice with small flakes. Sprinkle ½ teaspoon for moderate heat or more if you love a fiery kick!
🔥 Smoked Paprika + Cayenne – A smoky and spicy combo that adds both depth and heat.

Pro Tip for Even Flavor

• Mix the spices with olive oil before tossing the wedges to ensure even coating.
• Add extra chili flakes after cooking for a more intense punch without burning the spice.

 

For a rich, savory twist on air fryer potato wedges, adding Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast is a game-changer! Both options bring a delicious umami depth that enhances the crispy, golden texture of the wedges. Whether you prefer classic Parmesan or a dairy-free alternative, this cheesy upgrade makes every bite irresistible.

Why Add Cheese to Air Fryer Potato Wedges?

✅ Boosts flavor – Adds a rich, nutty, and slightly salty taste.
✅ Creates a crispy coating – Parmesan melts slightly, adding a crunchy texture.
✅ Dairy-free option available – Nutritional yeast gives a similar cheesy flavor without the dairy.

How to Add Parmesan or Nutritional Yeast for Maximum Flavor

🧀 Parmesan Cheese – For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-packaged powdered cheese. The fresh shavings melt slightly, sticking to the crispy potato wedges. Sprinkle it on after air frying for the best texture.
🌿 Nutritional Yeast – This dairy-free alternative has a naturally cheesy, nutty flavor. Toss the wedges with 1–2 tablespoons after cooking to add a rich, umami taste.
🔥 Garlic Parmesan Blend – Mix garlic powder, black pepper, and Parmesan for an extra flavor boost!

Pro Tip for Extra Crispiness

• Don’t add Parmesan too early – It can burn in the air fryer. Sprinkle it on in the last 2 minutes of cooking.
• For a cheesier finish, drizzle with a little melted butter or olive oil before adding cheese to help it stick.

 

One of the best things about air fryer potato wedges is that they can be cooked with little to no oil while still achieving a crispy, golden texture. But does using oil really make a difference? Let’s break it down.

Cooking with Oil: What Happens?

✅ Enhances Crispiness – A light coating of oil helps the potatoes develop a beautifully crispy exterior.
✅ Helps Seasoning Stick – Oil acts as a binder, ensuring that garlic powder, paprika, and other spices coat the wedges evenly.
✅ Adds Flavor – Certain oils, like olive oil or avocado oil, contribute a subtle richness that enhances the overall taste.

🔹 How Much Oil to Use?

• 1 to 2 teaspoons of oil is enough for a batch of wedges—just enough to lightly coat them without making them greasy.
• Best oils for air frying: Olive oil (for flavor), avocado oil (for high heat), or even a light spray of cooking oil.

Cooking Without Oil: Does It Still Work?

✅ Healthier Option – Skipping oil reduces calories while keeping the wedges light.
✅ Still Crispy – If you soak the potatoes beforehand and cook at the right temperature, you can still achieve crispiness without oil.
✅ Best Method – Toss the wedges in a bit of water or vegetable broth to help the seasonings stick before air frying.

Final Verdict: Which is Better?

While air fryer potato wedges can be made without oil, using a small amount enhances texture, flavor, and crispiness. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, no-oil wedges still turn out great—but for the crispiest results, a light drizzle of oil is worth it!

⏲️ Step-by-Step Guide to Making Air Fryer Potato Wedges

 

Before you start cooking air fryer potato wedges, proper preparation is key to achieving the perfect crispy exterior and fluffy inside. From choosing the right potatoes to seasoning them for maximum flavor, here’s everything you need to know!

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🥔 Step 1: Washing & Scrubbing the Potatoes

Since potato wedges are cooked with the skin on, it’s essential to wash them thoroughly to remove dirt, pesticides, or debris.

✅ Use cold water – This helps loosen any dirt and makes scrubbing easier.
✅ Scrub with a brush or your hands – Gently scrub the skin to get rid of any impurities while keeping the nutrients intact.
✅ Pat dry completely – Removing excess moisture ensures a crispier finish in the air fryer.

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🔪 Step 2: Cutting the Potatoes into Wedges

Cutting your potatoes the right way ensures they cook evenly and turn out crispy.

✅ Choose medium to large potatoes – This makes it easier to cut uniform wedges.
✅ Cut lengthwise into halves, then quarters – For standard wedges, aim for 6 to 8 pieces per potato.
✅ Keep them similar in size – This prevents uneven cooking, where some wedges burn while others stay soft.

📌 Pro Tip: If you want extra crispy air fryer potato wedges, soak them in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch!

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🌿 Step 3: Seasoning for Maximum Flavor

Now comes the fun part—seasoning your potato wedges! A simple blend of spices and oil can take them from basic to restaurant-quality.

✅ Lightly coat with oil – Use 1-2 teaspoons of olive oil or avocado oil to help the seasoning stick.
✅ Season generously – A classic mix includes:

• 🧄 Garlic powder – Adds a savory depth of flavor.
• 🌶️ Paprika – Enhances color and provides a smoky touch.
• ⚫ Black pepper – Balances out the flavors with mild heat.
• 🧂 Salt (added after cooking) – Keeps the wedges from drawing out too much moisture while air frying.

📌 Want extra crispiness? Add a teaspoon of cornstarch to the seasoning mix before tossing—it helps create an even crunchier coating!

 

Getting your air fryer potato wedges perfectly crispy starts with the right temperature and preheating! Proper setup ensures even cooking, a golden-brown crust, and a fluffy inside.

📍 Do You Need to Preheat the Air Fryer?

✅ Yes! Preheating helps the wedges cook faster and crisp up better.
✅ How to Preheat? Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes before adding the wedges.

🌡️ Best Temperature for Air Fryer Potato Wedges

• 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes – The ideal temp for crispy, golden wedges.
• Shake halfway through – Toss the wedges at 8-10 minutes to ensure even crispiness.
• For extra crunch, air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end.

 

Shaking the basket is crucial for making sure all sides of the potato wedges cook evenly.

✅ Shake halfway through – At 8-10 minutes, take the basket out and give it a good shake. This prevents one side from getting too dark.
✅ Use tongs for even flipping – If your air fryer doesn’t shake well, use tongs to turn the wedges manually.
✅ Don’t overcrowd – If the basket is too full, the wedges won’t crisp properly. Cook in batches if needed.

 

There’s nothing more disappointing than biting into what should be crispy air fryer potato wedges, only to find them soft, limp, or soggy. If your wedges aren’t turning out as golden and crunchy as you’d like, you might be making one of these common mistakes. Here’s how to fix them!

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🥔 1. Skipping the Soaking Step

✅ Why It’s a Mistake: Raw potatoes have a lot of starch, which can hold in moisture and prevent crisping.
✅ Fix: Soak the potato wedges in cold water for at least 30 minutes (or up to an hour for best results). This removes excess starch and helps them crisp up beautifully.

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🛢️ 2. Using Too Much or Too Little Oil

✅ Why It’s a Mistake:

• Too much oil = Wedges turn greasy instead of crispy.
• Too little oil = They may dry out and not brown evenly.
  ✅ Fix: Use only 1 to 2 teaspoons of oil per batch—just enough to lightly coat the wedges.

📌 Pro Tip: For an oil-free option, toss the wedges in a little vegetable broth or water to help seasoning stick.

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🍟 3. Overcrowding the Air Fryer Basket

✅ Why It’s a Mistake: Overlapping wedges block airflow, causing uneven cooking and soggy spots.
✅ Fix: Cook in a single layer and leave space between wedges. If making a big batch, cook in multiple rounds for best crispiness.

📌 Pro Tip: If your air fryer has a shake reminder, use it! Otherwise, manually shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping.

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🌡️ 4. Not Preheating the Air Fryer

✅ Why It’s a Mistake: Starting with a cold air fryer means wedges won’t crisp up immediately, leading to a softer texture.
✅ Fix: Preheat the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes before adding the wedges.

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⏲️ 5. Removing the Wedges Too Soon

✅ Why It’s a Mistake: If you take them out too early, they may look golden but won’t be fully crispy.
✅ Fix: Stick to the recommended 15-20 minute cooking time at 400°F (200°C), and add an extra 2-3 minutes at the end if needed for extra crunch.

📌 Final Tip: If your wedges still aren’t crispy enough, let them rest for a minute or two after air frying—this helps the outer layer firm up even more!

🍽️ Serving Ideas & Best Dipping Sauces

 

Once your crispy air fryer potato wedges are golden brown and perfectly seasoned, the next step is pairing them with the right dipping sauce! The perfect sauce enhances the flavor and adds that extra deliciousness that makes every bite irresistible. Here are some of the best classic dipping sauces to enjoy with your wedges!

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🍅 Ketchup – The Timeless Favorite

✅ Why it works: The classic sweet-and-tangy taste of ketchup balances the savory, crispy texture of potato wedges.
✅ Best for: Simple, lightly seasoned wedges, or those with garlic and paprika.
✅ Try this twist: Mix ketchup with a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika for an extra kick!

📌 Pro Tip: Opt for homemade ketchup with natural ingredients for a fresher, healthier option!

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🥛 Ranch – Cool & Creamy Perfection

✅ Why it works: The creamy, herby flavors of ranch contrast beautifully with the crispy, salty wedges.
✅ Best for: Spicy or garlicky wedges, as the ranch helps cool down the heat.
✅ Try this twist: Mix ranch with a little sriracha or cayenne pepper for a spicy ranch variation!

📌 Pro Tip: Use Greek yogurt-based ranch for a lighter yet equally delicious dip.

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🔥 BBQ Sauce – Smoky & Sweet Goodness

✅ Why it works: The rich, smoky, and slightly sweet flavors of BBQ sauce add depth to crispy potato wedges.
✅ Best for: Paprika-seasoned or spicy potato wedges, as the sweetness balances the heat.
✅ Try this twist: Mix BBQ sauce with a splash of honey or mustard for extra complexity!

📌 Pro Tip: If you like extra smokiness, choose a hickory-smoked BBQ sauce or add a dash of liquid smoke to your dip!

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🎉 Want to Get Creative? Try These Unique Dips!

If you’re looking to switch things up, try these fun alternatives:
🥑 Avocado Lime Dip – A fresh, creamy blend of avocado, lime juice, and garlic.
🧄 Garlic Aioli – A rich and garlicky mayo-based dip.
🌶️ Spicy Mayo – A mix of mayo and sriracha for a creamy kick.

 

If you want to take your air fryer potato wedges to the next level, a creamy, garlicky aioli is the perfect dipping sauce! This homemade garlic aioli is rich, tangy, and packed with bold flavor—way better than store-bought sauces.

🥣 Ingredients:

• ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
• 1 garlic clove, finely minced or grated
• 1 tsp lemon juice (adds freshness and balance)
• ½ tsp Dijon mustard (for a subtle tang)
• ½ tsp olive oil (optional, for extra richness)
• Salt & black pepper to taste

👩‍🍳 How to Make It:

1. Mince the garlic finely or mash it into a paste for the smoothest texture.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and olive oil.
3. Season with salt & black pepper to taste.
4. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

 

If you love dipping your air fryer potato wedges but want a healthier alternative to traditional mayo-based sauces, these two options are perfect! They’re creamy, flavorful, and packed with nutrients, making them a guilt-free way to enjoy your crispy wedges.

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🥣 Greek Yogurt Dip – Light & Protein-Packed

Greek yogurt is a high-protein, low-fat alternative to mayonnaise, with a tangy and creamy texture that makes it a great dip base.

✨ Ingredients:

• ½ cup Greek yogurt (plain, unsweetened)
• 1 tsp lemon juice (for a fresh tang)
• ½ tsp garlic powder or 1 clove minced garlic
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp dried dill or parsley (optional, for extra flavor)
• Salt & black pepper to taste

👩‍🍳 How to Make It:

1. In a bowl, mix all the ingredients until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
3. Let it chill in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to enhance the flavors.

📌 Pro Tip: Add a teaspoon of honey or Dijon mustard for a little sweetness and balance!

✅ Why It’s Healthy?

• High in protein (keeps you full longer)
• Low in fat (compared to regular mayo)
• Rich in probiotics (good for digestion)

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🥑 Avocado Mayo – Creamy & Nutrient-Rich

If you love the richness of mayo but want a healthier, plant-based alternative, avocado mayo is the way to go! It’s naturally creamy, full of healthy fats, and incredibly easy to make.

✨ Ingredients:

• 1 ripe avocado
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for extra creaminess)
• 1 tsp lemon or lime juice (prevents browning & adds tang)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt & pepper to taste

👩‍🍳 How to Make It:

1. Mash the avocado until smooth (or blend for a silkier texture).
2. Mix in the olive oil, lemon juice, and seasonings.
3. Adjust flavors as needed and serve immediately!

📌 Pro Tip: Add a teaspoon of Greek yogurt or Dijon mustard for extra creaminess and depth of flavor.

✅ Why It’s Healthy?

• Packed with healthy fats (good for heart health)
• Dairy-free & plant-based
• Loaded with vitamins & antioxidants

 

Crispy air fryer potato wedges are not just an amazing snack; they’re also the perfect side dish to complement a variety of meals! Whether you’re making a hearty burger, a light grilled dish, or a comforting homestyle dinner, these golden wedges add flavor, texture, and satisfaction to any plate.

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🍔 1. Burgers – A Classic Combo

Air fryer potato wedges are the perfect alternative to fries when paired with a juicy burger! The crispy outside and fluffy inside of the wedges complement the savory, juicy bite of a well-made burger.

✅ Best Burger Pairings:

• Beef burgers – Classic cheeseburgers, BBQ bacon burgers, or smash burgers.
• Chicken burgers – Crispy or grilled, a great lighter option.
• Veggie burgers – Black bean, lentil, or mushroom-based burgers pair well with crispy wedges.

📌 Pro Tip: Serve your wedges inside the burger for an extra crunchy bite!

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🔥 2. Grilled Chicken – Light & Flavorful

For a healthier meal, pair your air fryer potato wedges with grilled or baked chicken. The balance of lean protein and crispy potatoes makes for a satisfying but light meal.

✅ Great Chicken Pairings:

• Grilled lemon herb chicken – Fresh, citrusy flavors contrast beautifully with crispy, seasoned wedges.
• BBQ chicken – The smoky sweetness of BBQ sauce pairs well with crispy potato wedges.
• Spicy buffalo chicken – The heat from buffalo sauce and the crunch of the wedges make a great match.

📌 Pro Tip: Serve with a cooling dip like Greek yogurt ranch or avocado mayo for contrast.

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🥩 3. Steak – A Restaurant-Worthy Pairing

If you want to upgrade your steak dinner, swap out mashed potatoes for crispy air fryer wedges! The rich, juicy texture of a good steak pairs incredibly well with crispy, seasoned wedges.

✅ Best Steak Pairings:

• Garlic butter ribeye – The buttery richness pairs beautifully with crispy wedges.
• Pepper-crusted sirloin – A bold, flavorful steak deserves a crispy, hearty side.
• Grilled filet mignon – Elevate a fine cut with perfectly air-fried wedges.

📌 Pro Tip: Drizzle the wedges with garlic butter or truffle oil for a gourmet touch!

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🥗 4. Fresh Salads – A Balanced Meal

For a lighter meal, pair crispy wedges with a refreshing salad. The crunchy contrast of the potatoes with fresh veggies makes for a satisfying yet healthy meal.

✅ Great Salad Pairings:

• Caesar salad – Classic and creamy, perfect with crispy potato wedges.
• Greek salad – The tangy feta and olives complement seasoned wedges well.
• Avocado and tomato salad – Light and refreshing, great for a warm day.

📌 Pro Tip: Try tossing your potato wedges into the salad for a fun, hearty twist!

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🌮 5. Sandwiches & Wraps – A Perfect Side

Instead of chips, serve air fryer potato wedges alongside your favorite sandwiches or wraps. The crispy, hearty texture adds an extra level of satisfaction to every bite.

✅ Best Pairings:

• Grilled cheese sandwich – The melty cheese and crispy wedges are a comfort food dream!
• Turkey & avocado wrap – A healthy yet hearty option.
• BBQ pulled pork sandwich – The smoky, saucy flavors match well with crispy, seasoned potatoes.

🎯 Conclusion – Crispy, Flavorful, and Easy!

Air fryer potato wedges are the perfect combination of crispy, golden perfection and fluffy, tender insides—all made with minimal oil and effort! Whether you enjoy them as a snack, a side dish, or paired with your favorite dips and meals, these wedges are a must-try for any potato lover.

By choosing the right potatoes, cutting them evenly, seasoning them well, and following the best cooking tips, you’ll achieve restaurant-quality results right in your kitchen. Plus, with endless seasoning and dip options—from classic garlic and paprika to spicy cayenne or cheesy Parmesan—you can customize them to fit any craving.

So grab your air fryer, whip up a batch of crispy air fryer potato wedges, and enjoy a delicious, healthier alternative to traditional fries. Once you try them, they’re bound to become a new favorite in your kitchen! 🍟🔥😋

❓ Quick FAQs – Air Fryer Potato Wedges

1. Why aren’t my wedges crispy?
Too much moisture! Soak, dry well, don’t overcrowd, and cook at 400°F (200°C).

2. Do I need to soak potatoes before air frying?
Yes! Soaking removes starch for extra crispiness. Soak for 15-30 minutes, then dry well.

3. Best potatoes for air fryer wedges?

• Russet – Crispiest
• Yukon Gold – Creamy inside
• Red potatoes – Softer texture

4. Can I air fry frozen potato wedges?
Yes! Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 18-22 minutes, shaking halfway through.

5. Do I need to preheat my air fryer?
Not required, but preheating (400°F for 3-5 minutes) helps with crispiness.

6. How much oil should I use?
1-2 teaspoons—just enough to lightly coat the potatoes.

7. How do I store & reheat leftovers?
Store in the fridge (3 days max) and reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes.

8. Best seasonings for potato wedges?

• Classic: Garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper
• Spicy: Cayenne, chili flakes
• Cheesy: Parmesan, nutritional yeast
• Herby: Rosemary, thyme

9. Are air fryer potato wedges gluten-free & vegan?
Yes! Just use gluten-free seasonings and dairy-free dips.

10. Can I use sweet potatoes instead?
Yes! Cook at 375°F for 15-20 minutes and use cornstarch for crispier results.