These air fryer Three-Cheese Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Potatoes combine cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, and fresh herbs, creating a creamy, cheesy filling with a hint of herbaceousness.
The crispy exterior of the potato contrasts beautifully with the velvety center, making this recipe a standout vegetarian option for dinners, appetizers, or even game-day treats.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe elevates classic spinach and artichoke flavors by combining multiple cheeses and fresh herbs for a balanced, rich, and savory bite.
Cooking in the air fryer not only speeds up the process but also delivers a perfectly crisped potato skin with a soft, warm interior. Here’s why it’s bound to become a favorite:
- Rich & Creamy: The blend of cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan provides a satisfying, luxurious texture.
- Balanced Flavors: Tangy artichokes and fresh herbs add freshness, offsetting the richness of the cheeses.
- Quick & Convenient: The air fryer ensures quick cooking with minimal fuss, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Let’s dive into this deliciously cheesy recipe!
Ingredients
For this recipe, you’ll need:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Potatoes
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Wash and dry the potatoes. Pierce each potato several times with a fork. Rub olive oil over the potatoes and season with salt.
Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket, ensuring they have enough space for air to circulate. Cook for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway through until the skin is crisp and the potatoes feel soft inside when pierced with a fork.
Prepare the Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Filling
While the potatoes cook, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, chopped spinach, and artichoke hearts.
Add the minced garlic, fresh parsley, and basil. Mix until everything is well incorporated. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
Scoop and Mix the Potato Filling
Once the potatoes are fully cooked, 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 of potato along the edges to support the filling.
Add the scooped-out potato insides to the bowl with the cheese and spinach mixture. Mix until smooth and creamy. If the mixture feels too thick, add a splash of milk or a bit more cream cheese.
Stuff the Potatoes
Spoon the cheesy filling back into the hollowed-out potato skins, mounding it slightly. Sprinkle extra Parmesan on top for added flavor and a golden crust.
Air Fry for a Cheesy Crust
Arrange the stuffed potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry at 400°F for 5–7 minutes or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Garnish and Serve
Remove the stuffed potatoes from the air fryer and garnish with additional fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve warm as a side dish, appetizer, or main course.
Serving Suggestions
These three-cheese stuffed potatoes work well with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas for pairing:
- Side Salad: A fresh, crunchy green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the potatoes.
- Soup: Pair with a tomato or vegetable soup to create a well-rounded vegetarian meal.
- Toppings Bar: Set up toppings like sour cream, green onions, or diced tomatoes for extra flavor options.
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Potatoes
- Choosing the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes work best because their sturdy skin can hold the filling, and their starchy interior makes for a fluffy base.
- Preheating the Air Fryer: Preheating is essential to achieving crispy potato skins. It helps lock in moisture and ensures even cooking.
- Don’t Overstuff: Be careful not to overfill the potato skins, as this can cause the filling to spill over. A slight mound of filling is perfect for the best presentation.
- Experiment with Herbs: Fresh herbs like chives, dill, or thyme can enhance the flavor. Don’t be afraid to add or substitute based on your preferences.
Variations to Try
Want to switch it up? Here are some variations to customize this recipe:
- Swap Mozzarella for Gouda or Fontina: For a deeper, smokier flavor, try using Gouda or Fontina in place of mozzarella.
- Add a Spicy Twist: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give the filling a kick.
- Make It Vegan: Substitute cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan with dairy-free alternatives. Nutritional yeast can add a “cheesy” flavor to the filling.
Why the Air Fryer is Perfect for Stuffed Potatoes
Air frying provides a quicker alternative to traditional oven-baking with superior results. The high heat in the compact space of the air fryer creates a perfectly crispy skin without drying out the filling. Plus, it saves on cooking time, making it a convenient method for those busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
Nutritional Highlights
These Three-Cheese Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Potatoes are not only delicious but also pack a nutritious punch:
- Spinach: Adds iron, fiber, and vitamins A and C.
- Artichokes: Known for their high fiber content and antioxidants, artichokes contribute a unique tanginess to balance the richness of the cheeses.
- Cheese: Provides protein and calcium, though you can opt for reduced-fat cheese to lighten up the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and stuff the potatoes up to one day in advance. Keep them covered in the fridge, then air-fry when ready to serve.
2. Can I use frozen spinach?
Absolutely! Just thaw and squeeze out excess water before mixing it into the filling.
3. How can I make the filling even creamier?
Add a splash of milk or an extra tablespoon of cream cheese when mixing the filling if you prefer a softer texture.
4. Can I freeze these stuffed potatoes?
Yes, freeze them after stuffing but before the final air-frying step. When ready, air-fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
