Try my easy recipe for Dauphinoise potatoes made in air fryer! Thinly sliced potatoes are air fried in a creamy garlic sauce with cheddar cheese. This cheesy gratin potatoes dish is simply comforting, delicious, and perfect addition to family dinners or any festive occasion.
Take a look at our 50+ Vegetarian Thanksgiving recipe collection.
My easy Air fryer Potato dauphinoise recipe
This is my take on the classic dauphinoise potatoes. It's so simple and flavourful, it'll have you wondering why you haven't made it before. And guess what? My secret ingredient in this dauphinoise potato is none other than good old cheddar cheese, which I always keep stocked in my fridge.
By no means this recipe is healthy, as it is made with cream and cheese. But super delicious for sure!
Now, here's the scoop: although you can totally buy those semi-made potato dauphinoise dishes from big UK supermarkets like Waitrose, Tesco, Morrisons, Lidl, Asda, and Sainsbury’s. But guess what? However, there's a catch—you still need to bake or air fry it.
But hold up! What if I told you that you can prep your very own dauphinoise gratin at home in less than 15 minutes? That's right, my friends! You'll get a dish that's fresh, delicious, and bursting with flavour. And the best part? The air frying time is a lot lesser than the baking in the oven.
Why should you try this recipe?
Simple and Straightforward: This recipe takes the complexity out of Potato Dauphinoise, making it super simple to prepare. No need to stress over complicated techniques.
Only 15 minutes hands-on time: It allows you to make a delicious Dauphinoise Potato without spending hours in the kitchen. It's perfect for busy individuals or those who want a quick and tasty dish.
Budget-friendly: With basic and easily accessible ingredients, you can enjoy a flavourful and satisfying dish without overspending.
Versatile: The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can serve the Potato Dauphinoise Gratin as a delicious side dish for various meals, or even enjoy it as a main course by adding some protein or veggies. It's a versatile dish that can adapt to different dining occasions.
Easy to adapt: Whether you prefer to add your favourite herbs and spices, experiment with different types of cheese, this recipe provides a solid base that you can easily adapt to suit your taste preferences.
Dietary needs: This recipe is suitable for Vegetarians and can be customised to accommodate various dietary needs. You can make it Vegan by using plant based alternatives. It's a flexible recipe that can be enjoyed by a wide range of individuals.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: The star of the show, potatoes form the base of Dauphinoise potatoes. Opt for starchy potatoes such as baking potatoes or Maris Piper in the UK. If you are in the US, opt for Russet or Yukon Gold, as they have a higher starch content that contributes to a creamy texture when cooked.
Onion: Use 1 medium sized white onion for added flavour. While it is not a must, but adding the onion makes all the difference. I wouldn't recommend using red onion as sub. You can leave it out.
Cream: It is the key ingredient that gives Dauphinoise potatoes their luxurious, velvety texture. You can also substitute part of the cream with milk or half-and-half if you prefer a lighter version.
Garlic: An essential flavour enhancer in Dauphinoise potatoes. Finely mince or crush fresh garlic cloves to infuse the cream with its aromatic essence.
Salt and Pepper: Seasoning with salt and pepper is crucial to enhance the flavours of the dish. Use kosher salt or sea salt and freshly ground black pepper for the best results.
Cheese: I love using mature cheddar cheese in my air fryer potato dauphinoise. You can switch it up and use Mozzarella cheese, Gruyere cheese, Parmesan or rRed Leicester cheese.
Optional ingredients - Adding bay leaf or thyme will add a delicate earthy and herby aroma to the dauphinoise dish.
Optional toppings - Chives, parsley or thyme can be used a topping. They will add a pop of green and fresh luscious flavours to the dish.
Slice the Potatoes for Dauphinoise Potato
To prepare delicious Potato Dauphinoise at home, start by washing and scrubbing the potatoes thoroughly. Then, follow these simple steps:
- Slice the potatoes into thin, ⅛ inch thick rounds using a sharp knife. Alternatively, you can use a food processor or mandoline slicer for even and precise cuts.
- If the sliced potatoes release starch or appear discoloured, soak them in a bowl of cold water for a few minutes to remove excess starch and maintain their freshness. (Optional step)
How to Make Potato Dauphinoise in the Air Fryer?
To make Potato Dauphinoise in the air fryer, first combine the cream, milk, garlic, bay leaf, nutmeg, salt, and pepper in a jug. Microwave for two and half minutes, allowing the flavours to infuse. Remove the bayleaf before pouring the cream.
Grease the baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.
Randomly arrange the potato slices and sliced onion into the dish, creating layers of deliciousness. Do not stack too much but create layers, in a way when you pour the cream, it goes through the nooks and corners
Pour the cream mixture over the potato slices, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Add half the cheese.
Transfer the baking dish into the air fryer basket, cover with foil and air fry at 200C for 35-45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. When you poke the potatoes with knife, it should easily pass right through the bottom.
Sprinkle a generous amount of grated cheese on top of the cooked potatoes and bake for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and turned a beautiful golden brown.
Remove dauphinoise potatoes from the air fryer basket and allow it to rest for at least 10 minutes before serving, giving the flavours a chance to meld together.
For an extra touch of freshness, consider garnishing with thyme before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Dauphinoise potatoes with a variety of sides such as air fryer roasted green beans, roasted carrots, roasted mushrooms or macho peas.
Pair with a side of bread such as eggless dinner rolls, Irish soda bread or no knead bread.
Makes a fantastic addition to the holiday table on festive occasions like Christmas and Thanksgiving.
Storing leftover dauphinoise
In the fridge: Place the leftover Air fryer Dauphinoise potatoes in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.
In the freezer: To freeze the leftovers, transfer the Dauphinoise potatoes to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating.
How do you reheat Dauphinoise potatoes in oven/ air fryer?
To reheat dauphinoise potatoes in the oven, transfer them to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 180C / 160C fan / 350F for 15-20 minutes, or until thoroughly heated.
To reheat the dauphnois gratin in the air fryer, transfer to an oven proof dish, cover with foil and air fry at 180C for 5-9 minutes or until heated thoroughly. This depends upon the size of the dauphinoise you are reheating.
How to make Dauphinoise potatoes in oven?
To make Dauphinoise potatoes in the oven, preheat to 170°C (340°F). Layer sliced potatoes and onions in a baking dish, pour cream over them, cover with foil, and bake for 60-70 minutes. Increase oven temperature to 200°C (390°F), remove foil, sprinkle grated cheese on top, and bake for another 8-10 minutes until golden. Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving. These creamy and flavorful potatoes make a delicious side dish for any meal and are perfect for special occasions or gatherings.
Make-Ahead Dauphinoise Potatoes for Christmas/Thanksgiving
Christmas and Thanksgiving are busy occasions, requiring careful planning and preparation for a seamless holiday meal. One way to save time and reduce the last-minute chaos is by making ahead your Dauphinoise potatoes. Follow these simple steps:
- Assemble the Potatoes: Layer the sliced potatoes with the cream mixture and cheese in a baking dish.
- Cover and Refrigerate: Cover the dish with foil or cling film and store it in the refrigerator for up to one day. This allows the flavours to develop and the potatoes to absorb the creamy goodness.
- Preparing for Serving: About one hour before you're ready to serve, remove the Dauphinoise potatoes from the fridge.
- Air Fry to Perfection: Place the dish in the air fryer and cook until the potatoes are hot, bubbly, and golden on top. The air frying method ensures a crispy finish without losing the creamy texture.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Once cooked, garnish the Dauphinoise potatoes with your favourite herbs, such as thyme or parsley, for a festive touch. Serve them alongside your Christmas or Thanksgiving feast, impressing your guests with this delectable and hassle-free dish.
By making ahead and air frying just before serving, you'll have a stress-free and delicious side dish that perfectly complements your holiday celebration.
More Air fryer Potato recipes
- Crispy potato slices
- Smashed potatoes
- Hasselback potatoes
- Easy Roast potatoes
- Air fryer Indian potatoes
- Air fryer Parmentier Potatoes
Homemade Air fryer Dauphinoise potatoes recipe below
Ingredients
- 1 kg Potatoes
- 1 medium white onion
- 1 teaspoon unsalted butter
- 300 ml double cream
- 150 ml milk
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- salt to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 bay leaves
- 50 g cheddar cheese grated
- 2 sprig thyme
Instructions
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the double cream, nutmeg, garlic, salt, black pepper, and bay leaves. Microwave the mixture for 2 ½ minutes until heated through. Remove the bay leaves. Add 150 ml of milk to the cream mixture and stir well.300 ml double cream, 150 ml milk, 3 cloves garlic, ½ teaspoon nutmeg, salt, 3 bay leaves, ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Wash and scrub the potatoes. Peel them and slice them to a thickness of approximately ⅛ inch.1 kg Potatoes
- Slice the onion into ⅛ inch thickness, and loosen the rings slightly.1 medium white onion
- Grease a baking dish with unsalted butter.1 teaspoon unsalted butter
- Begin layering the sliced potatoes and onions in the greased baking dish, arranging them in a single layer without overlapping too much. Repeat this process until you have used all the potatoes and onions.1 kg Potatoes, 1 medium white onion
- Pour the infused cream mixture over the layered potatoes and onions, making sure it seeps into the crevices.1 teaspoon unsalted butter, 300 ml double cream, 150 ml milk, 3 cloves garlic, ½ teaspoon nutmeg, salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Sprinkle a generous amount of grated cheddar cheese over the top.50 g cheddar cheese
- Preheat the air fryer to 200°C (390°F).
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated air fryer basket. Bake for 30-40 minutes. Check the potatoes for tenderness by piercing them with a knife.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and continue air frying for another 4-5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and turned a beautiful golden brown.
- Remove the Potato Dauphinoise from the air fryer basket and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish with fresh thyme and serve.2 sprig thyme
T Smith says
Sounds great. I think I’ll cook pots first in microwave then slice and air fry just to speed things up Thank you
Sandhya Hariharan says
Absolutely.Cooking the potatoes first in the microwave and then air frying to make dauphnoise potatoes is a good idea.
Clare Bennett says
Excellent recipe
Sandhya Hariharan says
Thank you Clare! Happy to know you enjoyed making dauphinoise potatoes in the air fryer.
Anne White says
Cooking times way inaccurate. Followed recipe to the letter, so undercooked.
Sandhya Hariharan says
Did you slice the potatoes thin? That determines the cooking time. Also I would love to know how long did you cook further?
Dennis Colquitt says
I've been making this dish for decades. Secret is slicing the potatoes on a mandolin. My mandolin is Oak with German steel blades. Had it for decades, never had to sharpen the blades
Sandhya Hariharan says
Fantastic tip for Dauphinoise Potatoes Dennis! Totally agree!
Susie says
cooked for 90 minutes temperature as stated in recipe and still not cooked.
finished in microwave!
i cook regularly in an air fryer and this recipe just isn't right.. disappointing.
Sandhya Hariharan says
Hi Susie, thank you for your feedback! I’m sorry to hear the recipe didn’t turn out as expected. Let’s troubleshoot a few things to help get perfect results next time:
1.Did you slice the potatoes thinly and evenly? Consistent thickness is key for even cooking.
2.The cook time of 90 minutes seems long; for air fryers, 40 minutes is usually sufficient. For an oven, I’d suggest around 70 minutes max.
3.What size is your air fryer, and how much did you make? Overcrowding can affect cooking times.
Lastly, what brand/model of air fryer are you using? Different air fryers perform differently.
Stu says
Looking forward to trying this fairly clear, straightforward recipe. But it would be helpful for a gauge of amount/quantities: how many potatoes? how much cream? how much cheese? for example
Sandhya's Kitchen says
Hi Stuart,
Off course - 300ml cream is about 1.25cups
1 kg potatoes - 7-8 medium sized
50g cheese - around 1/4 cup
150ml milk - 0.5 cup + 1 tbsp or so.
I hope this helps.
Karen says
Could you have been using 200 deg F instead of 390? I can't imagine cooking anything without burning at 200 deg F for so long in any of my air fryers.
Sandhya Hariharan says
Every air fryer is a bit different, so if you find things cooking too fast or starting to burn at 200°C, feel free to lower it slightly to 190°C (375°F) or even 180°C (356°F). But remember to increase the cooking time a bit. Go with what works best in your machine—you’re the best judge!
Jane says
You are asking for measurements. They are all above in the recipe???? You also ask how many potatoes?? Recipe calls for 1 kg. Depends on size of potatoes to reach 1 kg.
John marshall says
Wasnt being belligerent Sandhya it was just incorrect. I am definitely going to try it your way though. I think the French would be screaming. You know what the French are like if you mess with their recipes haha.
Sandhya's Kitchen says
Not at all! I totally get it. I hope you enjoy it John.
John marshall says
Hi Sandya i will give this recipe a go. Looks interesting but have never heard of it with onions bay leaves and nutmeg. Normally just cream and the cooking vessel rubbed with garlic .Also in "notes" you say cuisine British. It is most definitely FRENCH hence the title. I will look forward to trying it.
Sandhya's Kitchen says
Dear John, Thank you for your message. I had first tasted when my British neighbours brought me some sample. So always thought Dauphinoise potatoes were British classic. Pardon me! These are French gratin, I see! let me correct it.
Julie says
These came out so good! I made these for the family and everyone wondered how I made them and asked for seconds. Will be making this recipe again for sure.
Cara says
We love our air fryer! And potatoes 🙂 such a great recipe, you always have such thorough notes and the pictures give me a lot of confidence I'm doing this right!
Kate says
Mine came out so well! I loved the little bit of nutmeg in the cream mixture. That made it very authentic tasting! Thank you for such a comprehensive post. Helped me feel more confident trying this new recipe.
Amanda Wren-Grimwood says
One of my favourite potato dishes now got even easier using the airfryer. These were absolutely delicious.
lauren G says
Yum. So quick and easy. Freezing instructions are great so multiple batches can be made and stored in the future.
Ieva says
Dophinoise is my favourite potato dish in the world, but this was the first time I tried an air-fryer method! They turned out lovely and creamy, with a perfectly browned cheesy top! Thanks for the recipe!
Charla says
Isn't the air fryer such a great device? Who knew you could make dauphinoise in the air fryer? Pure genius!!