Nothing says comfort food quite like cheesy stuffed potatoes. This recipe for Cheese Garlic Herb Stuffed Potatoes brings together a blend of sharp cheddar, creamy mozzarella, and savory Parmesan.
Best of all, the air fryer cooks them to golden, bubbly perfection in no time, making this a quick and easy recipe that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Cheese Garlic Herb Stuffed Potatoes offer the perfect combination of crispy potato skins and a soft, cheesy filling. Air-fried to achieve a beautiful golden crust, each bite is a mix of smooth, melty cheese with bursts of herbaceous flavor. Here’s why these stuffed potatoes will become a regular on your menu:
- Ultra-Cheesy: With three cheeses, every bite has the ultimate cheesy flavor and texture.
- Quick Cooking: The air fryer ensures a faster cook time than traditional baking.
- Customizable: Swap in your favorite herbs or cheeses to personalize the flavors.
Let’s jump into the ingredients and steps needed to make this delicious recipe.
Ingredients
For this recipe, gather:
- 4 large russet potatoes, scrubbed and dried
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (plus extra for topping)
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for rubbing the potatoes
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Bake the Potatoes in the Air Fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Pierce each potato several times with a fork. Rub a light layer of olive oil and season with salt.
Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each one for proper air circulation. Cook for about 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the potatoes are tender inside with a crispy skin.
2. Prepare the Cheesy Herb Filling
While the potatoes cook, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, and minced garlic.
Add the chopped parsley and chives for a fresh, herbaceous touch. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
3. Scoop and Mix the Potato Filling
Once the potatoes are ready, carefully remove them from the air fryer and allow them to cool slightly. Cut each potato in half lengthwise.
Using a spoon, scoop out the insides of each potato half, leaving a thin layer along the edges for structure.
Add the scooped potato to the cheese mixture, stirring until smooth and well combined. If the filling feels too thick, add a splash of milk or a bit more cream cheese to reach a creamy consistency.
4. Stuff the Potatoes and Add Extra Cheese
Spoon the cheesy filling back into each potato skin, pressing it down gently to ensure even filling. Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top for a golden, crispy finish.
5. Air Fry for a Cheesy Golden Crust
Place the stuffed potatoes back in the air fryer in a single layer. Air fry at 400°F for about 5–7 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the cheese is bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve
Remove the stuffed potatoes from the air fryer. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed potatoes pair well with a variety of dishes. Here are a few ideas:
- Green Salad: Serve with a crisp green salad to balance the rich, cheesy potatoes.
- Soup: Pair with a bowl of tomato or vegetable soup for a hearty vegetarian meal.
- Toppings Bar: Set up a toppings bar with options like sour cream, hot sauce, and extra chives to let everyone customize their potatoes.
Tips for the Best Stuffed Potatoes
- Use Russet Potatoes: Their starchy, fluffy insides make them ideal for mashing and stuffing, and their skins get crispy in the air fryer.
- Ensure a Smooth Filling: For a creamier filling, make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing. A hand mixer can also be used to whip the filling for an even smoother texture.
- Control the Salt: The cheeses add saltiness, so season the filling lightly. Adjust only after tasting.
- Don’t Overstuff: Mound the filling slightly but avoid overfilling, as it can spill out while air frying.
Variations to Try
Want to add some variety? Here are a few ideas for customizing this recipe:
- Spicy Twist: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or finely diced jalapeños for a hint of spice.
- Different Cheeses: Try Gruyère for a nutty flavor or smoked Gouda for a smoky twist.
- Swap Herbs: Fresh dill or thyme can add unique flavors that pair well with potatoes and cheese.
Why Air Frying Works Well for Stuffed Potatoes
Air frying creates a crisp exterior while keeping the filling hot and melty inside, making it an excellent cooking method for stuffed potatoes. Compared to traditional oven baking, air frying is faster and provides a consistent, golden finish. It also keeps the kitchen cooler — a huge plus during warmer months. The high, even heat circulation in an air fryer crisps the skins and ensures all the cheesy goodness stays intact and doesn’t overcook.
Nutritional Information
These Cheese Garlic Herb Stuffed Potatoes offer a balance of carbs, protein, and fat. They’re a filling vegetarian option, providing calcium from the cheeses and vitamins A and C from the fresh herbs. Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving:
- Calories: ~320
- Protein: 9g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
These are approximate values and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these potatoes in advance?
Absolutely! Prepare the potatoes up until the final air-frying step, then store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, pop them in the air fryer for 5–7 minutes until heated through.
2. What if I don’t have an air fryer?
Bake the potatoes in a preheated oven at 400°F. They may take a bit longer, so bake until the skins are crispy and the cheese is bubbly.
3. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Fresh herbs provide a brighter flavor, but you can substitute with dried herbs if needed. Use about half the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
4. How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispness.
These Cheese Garlic Herb Stuffed Potatoes are ideal for sharing on Pinterest, where comfort foods and quick, cheesy recipes tend to shine. Their golden tops and fresh herbs make them visually appealing, while the cheesy, garlicky flavors make them irresistibly delicious. Perfect as a main or side, these stuffed potatoes are a versatile dish everyone will love.
