12-Ingredient loaded air fryer potato wedges: Crispy & Fun
You know that moment when the kids are hungry, your partner is pacing like a linebacker, and you just need something easy that also feels like a treat? That’s where these loaded air fryer potato wedges step in like a culinary touchdown.
I remember the first time I made these. It was a Sunday afternoon my boys had taken over the living room for game day, the TV volume was way too high, and all I could hear were chants of “Mom, snacks!” I opened the fridge, spotted leftover mashed potatoes, and a lightbulb went off. What if I turned that into something cheesy, crispy, and finger-food-worthy? And that’s how these air fryer loaded beauties were born.
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Why You’ll Love These loaded air fryer potato wedges
These aren’t your average potato wedges. Nope, these are crispy potato wedges in the air fryer that are stuffed with melty cheese, bacon, ham, jalapeños, and just the right kick of ranch-y goodness. They’re the kind of snack that makes people pause mid-bite and go, “Wait what is this deliciousness?”
Whether you’re feeding hungry teenagers, need a stellar side for burger night, or want the ultimate air fryer appetizer for a party, this recipe checks all the boxes: crispy, cheesy, creamy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need to make loaded air fryer potato wedges
Here’s your flavor-packed lineup:
- 6 cups mashed potatoes (already cooked and cooled)
- 2 cups shredded Colby–Jack cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 lb bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 bunch green onions, diced (save half for garnish)
- 3 jalapeños, diced (remove seeds for less heat)
- ½ tbsp salt
- ½ tbsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 lb Colby–Jack cheese, cut into 12 one-inch squares
- 1 cup flour
- 5 eggs, beaten and at room temp
- 3 cups panko breadcrumbs
- Non-stick olive oil spray
You can almost hear the crunch already, right?
Step-by-Step: How to Make loaded air fryer potato wedges
1. Mix the Mash-Up
In a big ol’ bowl, combine mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, cream cheese, bacon, green onions (half), jalapeños, seasonings, and diced ham. Mix until well blended. It should be thick enough to hold shape think “scoopable, not soupy.”
2. Shape & Stuff
Scoop about ½ cup of the potato mixture into your hands and shape it into a wedge or oval. Press a cube of Colby–Jack into the center, then mold the potato around it so the cheese is tucked in like a secret surprise.
3. Coat ‘Em Up
Roll each wedge in flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat in panko. (Tip: Use one hand for wet and one for dry to avoid the dreaded “breadcrumb glove.”)
4. Air Fry to Golden Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Give each wedge a light spray of olive oil and arrange in a single layer. Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden and crispy. You may need to work in batches don’t overcrowd the basket!
5. Serve & Swoon
Garnish with the remaining green onions and maybe an extra drizzle of ranch or spicy mayo. Boom bacon ranch potato wedges ready to impress.
🍗 This side is featured in my full roundup: What to Serve with Chicken Wings. Discover more crispy, cheesy, and fresh pairings!
Cooking Tips (from My Kitchen to Yours)
- Too soft? If your mashed potatoes are super creamy, add ¼ cup breadcrumbs to the mix to help them hold their shape.
- Picky eaters? Leave out the jalapeños and serve hot sauce on the side. You can even make a few “plain cheese” wedges for the littles.
- Cheese explosion? If your cheese sneaks out while air frying, don’t panic it creates a crispy, lacy edge that’s honestly so good.
These Wedges Are a Family Favorite
I’ve made these for birthday parties, casual Friday dinners, and even as a make-ahead option for holiday gatherings. They’ve never failed to disappear faster than I can say “save me one!” The air fryer makes everything easier (and less greasy), which is a win in my book. If you love this, you’ll probably also adore my Crispy Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries.
FAQs About loaded air fryer potato wedges
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Form and bread the wedges, then store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just air fry when you’re ready.
Can I freeze them?
Absolutely. Freeze before air frying, then add 2–3 extra minutes to the cook time (no need to thaw first!).
What dipping sauce works best?
Ranch is a classic, but spicy aioli or sour cream with chives? Chef’s kiss.
Are these good as an air fryer potato side dish?
They make a fab side for grilled meats or burgers or enjoy them as a full meal with a salad if you’re feeling virtuous.
Some recipes just have that magic. They pull people to the kitchen, make you feel like a hero, and use what you already have in the fridge. These loaded air fryer potato wedges are that kind of magic. Cheesy, crispy, and packed with flavor, they’re perfect for feeding your people with love (and a little bacon).
Next time you’re staring at leftover mashed potatoes or need a slam-dunk air fryer appetizer, come back to this one. Your future self and your hungry crowd will thank you.
💬 Craving more crispy creations? Check out all my favorite air fryer appetizers for easy entertaining and weeknight wins.
With love (and cheese),
Sarah
Loaded Air Fryer Potato Wedges
Equipment
- Air Fryer
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 large russet potatoes cut into wedges
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
Toppings
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 slices cooked bacon crumbled
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions
Instructions
- Cut the potatoes into wedges and soak in cold water for 30 minutes. Pat dry thoroughly.
- Toss the wedges in olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, and salt.
- Place the wedges in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Sprinkle cheese and bacon over cooked wedges, then return to the air fryer for 1–2 minutes until cheese is melted.
- Top with chopped green onions and serve warm.
