These Air Fryer Scalloped Potatoes with Bacon are creamy, cheesy, and loaded with smoky bacon flavor. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered in a rich cream sauce, topped with cheese, and cooked until tender with a golden, bubbly finish. Perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners, holidays, or special occasions.

Recipe Overview

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
• 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Cream Sauce

• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup milk
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Garnish

• Chopped fresh parsley
• Extra bacon crumbles

Equipment Needed

• Air fryer
• 7-inch round baking pan or air fryer-safe dish
• Mandoline slicer or sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Aluminum foil

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Wash and thinly slice the potatoes into approximately ⅛-inch slices.

Pat dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Make the Cream Mixture

In a bowl whisk together:

• Heavy cream
• Milk
• Garlic
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Mix until combined.

Step 3: Layer the Potatoes

Lightly grease the baking dish.

Arrange one layer of potatoes on the bottom.

Sprinkle with:

• Bacon crumbles
• Cheddar cheese

Pour a small amount of cream mixture over the layer.

Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used.

Finish with remaining cheese and Parmesan on top.

Step 4: Cover and Air Fry

Cover the dish loosely with foil.

Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).

Cook for 20 minutes.

Step 5: Remove Foil

Carefully remove the foil.

Continue cooking for 5–10 minutes until:

• Potatoes are fork-tender
• Cheese is golden brown
• Sauce is bubbling

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Allow the scalloped potatoes to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Garnish with:

• Fresh parsley
• Extra bacon crumbles

Serve warm.

Tips for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes

Slice Potatoes Thinly

Uniform slices ensure even cooking.

Use Yukon Gold Potatoes

They become creamy and hold their shape beautifully.

Cover First

Foil prevents the cheese from browning before the potatoes become tender.

Let Them Rest

Resting helps the sauce thicken.

Flavor Variations

Loaded Scalloped Potatoes

Add:

• Green onions
• Sour cream after cooking

Three-Cheese Version

Use:

• Cheddar
• Mozzarella
• Gruyère

Garlic Lover’s Potatoes

Increase garlic to 4 cloves.

Spicy Bacon Potatoes

Add:

• Jalapeños
• Crushed red pepper flakes

Ham & Cheese Version

Replace bacon with diced ham.

What to Serve With

Main Dishes

• Grilled steak
• Roast chicken
• Pork chops
• Meatloaf

Holiday Favorites

• Ham
• Turkey
• Prime rib

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze for up to 2 months.

Thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Air Fryer

Heat at 325°F (163°C) for 5–7 minutes.

Oven

Bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Per Serving (Approximate)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use russet potatoes?

Yes, but Yukon Gold potatoes provide a creamier texture.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

No. Leaving the skins on adds texture and nutrients.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the dish and refrigerate up to 24 hours before cooking.

What size pan fits most air fryers?

A 7-inch round cake pan or similar air fryer-safe baking dish works well.

Can I use turkey bacon?

Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a great lighter alternative.

Recipe Notes

✅ Creamy and cheesy.

✅ Packed with bacon flavor.

✅ Perfect holiday side dish.

✅ Air fryer friendly.

✅ Comfort food favorite.

Make-Ahead Tip

Assemble the entire dish the night before and refrigerate. Add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if starting cold.

Serving Suggestion

Serve alongside grilled meats or roasted chicken with a fresh green salad for a complete meal. 🥔🥓🧀✨

Chef’s Secret

For restaurant-style flavor, add ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika to the cream mixture. It enhances the bacon flavor and adds a subtle smoky depth to the potatoes. 😋🥔🥓🧀✨

FAQs

Why are my potatoes still firm?

They may be sliced too thick. Continue cooking in 3–5 minute increments until tender.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly.

Can I make this without bacon?

Absolutely! The recipe is delicious as a classic cheesy scalloped potato dish.

What cheese works best?

Cheddar, Gruyère, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan are excellent choices.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but you may need a larger air fryer-safe dish and a longer cooking time. 🥔