Cheesy Airfryer Potato Fondue

Name: Cheesy Airfryer Potato Fondue
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium russet potatoes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love indulging in creamy, cheesy goodness, and this Cheesy Airfryer Potato Fondue delivers exactly that. The combination of perfectly cooked, crispy potatoes and a rich, savory cheese blend has become a go-to comfort food in my house. Preparing this dish in the air fryer not only cuts down on the mess but also ensures that the potatoes are golden and tender. Perfect for sharing with friends or as a delightful snack while watching a movie, you won't be able to resist coming back for more!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:26:46.107Z

When I first experimented with the concept of potato fondue, I wasn't sure how it would turn out. To my surprise, the blend of smooth melted cheeses combined with slightly crispy potato bites created an unforgettable experience. I used a mix of cheddar and Gruyère for that perfect balance of sharpness and creaminess, which makes every bite an absolute delight!

A little tip I discovered: allowing the potatoes to cook slowly in the air fryer helps them to cook evenly and get that irresistible golden crust. This fondue is great for cold nights or a cozy gathering with friends. Pair it with fresh veggies or crusty bread for a multifaceted experience!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Incredibly creamy cheese blend for irresistible flavor
Easy preparation in the air fryer for perfect texture
Great for gatherings or as a cozy comfort dish

Perfecting the Potatoes

Choosing the right potatoes is essential for achieving that crispy exterior and fluffy interior. I recommend using russet potatoes for their high starch content, which yields a delightful texture. After cutting the potatoes into cubes, soaking them in cold water helps release excess starch, preventing them from becoming gummy during cooking. Drain the potatoes well and ensure they are completely dry before seasoning; this will help them crisp up beautifully in the air fryer.

How you season and oil the potatoes matters too. Using just the right amount of olive oil will help create a golden, crispy texture while preventing the potatoes from sticking. Don't be shy with salt and pepper; they enhance the natural flavors. Tossing them gently in a bowl coats every cube evenly, ensuring consistent taste throughout. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding spices like paprika or cayenne for an extra kick.

Crafting the Perfect Cheese Fondue

The combination of cheddar and Gruyère cheeses provides a rich, layered flavor that elevates this fondue. Gruyère adds a creamy texture and nutty taste, while cheddar brings sharpness and depth. For a smoother consistency, make sure to shred your cheese yourself; pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting. Using a low heat while melting the cheese ensures it becomes glossy without clumping, allowing for that luscious, dippable texture.

Incorporating garlic and onion powder not only enhances the flavor profile but also creates a comforting aroma as the fondue cooks. I like to give the cheese a gentle stir throughout the melting process to ensure all ingredients blend seamlessly. Once the mixture is smooth, folding in chopped chives adds a fresh, herbal note that brightens up the cheesy richness. Serve immediately, and if you want to keep it warm, you can transfer it to a small fondue pot.

Ingredients

For the Potatoes

4 medium russet potatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheese Fondue

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped

Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes

Wash and peel the russet potatoes. Cut them into bite-sized cubes and soak them in cold water for about 10 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain and dry thoroughly.

Season and Air Fry

In a mixing bowl, toss the potato cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C), then arrange the potatoes in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through until they are crispy and golden.

Make the Cheese Fondue

In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the cheddar cheese, Gruyère cheese, heavy cream, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir continuously until the cheese has melted and is smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped chives.

Serve

Once the potatoes are done, transfer them to a serving bowl. Pour the warm cheese fondue over the crispy potatoes. Enjoy with your favorite dipping items!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese mixture while melting. If desired, serve with an assortment of vegetables or bread for dipping.

Make-Ahead Tips and Storage

If you're planning to serve this fondue at a gathering, you can prepare the cheese mixture in advance. Simply heat it gently before serving, stirring continuously to restore the creamy texture. You can also cut and soak the potatoes ahead of time. Just remember to dry them well before air frying to ensure they stay crisp. Store the potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours, but avoid soaking them longer than that to prevent browning.

Leftover fondue can be stored in the fridge for about 3–4 days. To reheat, place it on low heat on the stove while stirring to prevent scorching. If it thickens too much, add a splash of milk or cream to regain that smooth texture. For reheating potatoes, a quick blast in the air fryer for around 5 minutes can rejuvenate their crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

Not only are crispy potatoes great on their own, but they also make an excellent base for various dippers. Consider serving alongside fresh vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or sliced bell peppers for a colorful platter. Cubed bread or soft pretzels are fantastic for soaking up the cheesy goodness too. If you're entertaining, add some sliced charcuterie meats for a well-rounded spread that keeps guests coming back for more.

To enhance your fondue experience, consider offering toppings like crushed red pepper flakes for heat or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley for added freshness. If you want to introduce different flavors, try adding cooked bacon bits for a savory twist or a splash of white wine to the cheese fondue for a classic depth of flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this with different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix different cheeses like mozzarella or fontina for a unique flavor.

→ What can I serve with the cheese fondue?

It pairs wonderfully with fresh vegetables, crusty bread, or even pieces of cooked meat!

→ Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as no gluten-containing products are added.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little cream if necessary to keep it smooth.