Loaded Potato Wedges

Name: Loaded Potato Wedges (Air-Fryer)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 large russet potatoes, cut into wedges; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp all-purpose seasoning; 1 tsp black pepper; 1 cup shredded cheddar jack cheese; 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled; 2 green onions, sliced; Ranch dressing, for serving

These loaded potato wedges are parboiled then air-fried until golden and crispy, then topped with melted cheddar jack cheese, crumbled bacon, and fresh green onions for a restaurant-quality appetizer that rivals any diner version.

⚡Air Fryer

🌍American 🏷️Potato wedges 🏷️Loaded fries 🏷️Bacon cheese fries 🏷️Air fryer recipe

🏷️Appetizer

🏷️Game-day

-0:00

cookinginthemidwestonTikTok

Total

40 min

Servings

4

Difficulty

Easy

Est. Cost

$17–$28

Recipe Source

View original recipe

From TikTok · by cookinginthemidwest

-0:00

cookinginthemidwestonTikTok

Ingredients

3 large russet potatoes, cut into wedges
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp all-purpose seasoning
1 tsp black pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar jack cheese
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
2 green onions, sliced
Ranch dressing, for servingoptional

8 Ingredients

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Instructions

1
Cut potatoes into thick wedges.
2
Place potato wedges in a pot of boiling water and parboil for 5-7 minutes until slightly tender.
3
Drain the potatoes and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
4
Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with all-purpose seasoning and black pepper. Toss well to coat.
5
Arrange the seasoned wedges in an air fryer basket, preferably lined with parchment paper.
6
Air fry at 400°F for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
7
Remove the basket from the air fryer and top the wedges with shredded cheese and crumbled bacon.
8
Return the basket to the air fryer and cook for another 1-2 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9
Remove from the air fryer, garnish with sliced green onions, and serve immediately with ranch dressing for dipping.

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Tips & Notes

Pro tips

Cut potatoes into uniform wedge sizes so they cook evenly; aim for 1.5–2 inches thick for a crispy exterior and tender interior.
After parboiling, pat potatoes completely dry with paper towels before tossing in oil and seasoning—moisture prevents crisping.
Add cheese in the final 2–3 minutes of air frying to prevent scorching while ensuring it melts completely onto the hot wedges.
Toss wedges halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and prevent sticking to the basket.

Substitutions

Cheddar jack → sharp cheddar or Mexican blend cheese (milder/spicier flavor)
Bacon → crispy prosciutto or smoked ham (similar texture and saltiness)
Green onions → fresh chives or thinly sliced white onion (for color and mild bite)
Ranch dressing → sour cream mixed with herbs or buffalo sauce (alternative dips)

Storage & make-ahead

Store cooled wedges in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5 minutes to restore crispness, then add fresh toppings.

Equipment

air fryer · large pot (for parboiling)

Common Questions

Why parboil the potatoes before air frying?

Parboiling ensures the inside is tender while the outside crisps up in the air fryer, preventing hard centers and speeding up cooking time.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes. Parboil and cut the potatoes up to 8 hours ahead, store in the fridge, then air fry when ready. Add toppings right before serving for best texture.

What temperature and time for the air fryer?

Air fry at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy. Exact time varies by air fryer model.

Can I use regular cheddar instead of cheddar jack?

Yes. Cheddar jack offers a milder, creamier melt, but sharp cheddar or a Mexican blend work well as substitutes.

How do I keep the cheese from sliding off?

Add cheese in the last 2-3 minutes of air frying so it melts and adheres to the hot wedges without burning. Add bacon and green onions immediately after removing from the fryer.