These crispy Air Fryer Potato Pancakes deliver the perfect crunch without excess oil, making them a healthier twist on traditional latkes. The air fryer transforms shredded potatoes into golden-brown delights with just 33 calories per serving.

A quick 10-minute prep and cook time means you’ll have these crispy bites ready faster than conventional methods. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a lightened-up version of this classic comfort food.

Ingredients List

Leftover Mashed Potatoes: 2⅓ cups, cold and firmly packed
Green Onions: 3 stalks, separately diced whites and greens for garnish
Herbs & Spices: 1 tsp oregano, 1 tsp smoked paprika
Flour: 2 tbsp (gluten-free or regular all-purpose)
Egg: 1 large, lightly beaten for binding

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Base: Place your cold mashed potatoes in a mixing bowl, ensuring they’re well-chilled for better handling
Mix Ingredients: Add the white parts of diced onions, your choice of flour, oregano, and that lovely smoked paprika
Add Binding: Combine the beaten egg with the potato mixture, mixing until everything is evenly incorporated
Form Patties: Shape the mixture into uniform patties for even cooking
Prepare Air Fryer: Either lightly oil your air fryer basket or line it with parchment paper/foil
Air Fry: Cook at 380°F for 10 minutes total, flipping halfway for perfect golden-brown results
Garnish & Serve: Top with reserved green onions and pair with sour cream if desired

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

These potato pancakes are perfect for batch cooking! Store any extras in an airtight container in your fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes until they’re nice and crispy again. You can also freeze them between layers of wax paper in a freezer container for up to 2 months.

Substitutions & Variations

Don’t have green onions? Regular onions work great too! Feel free to play around with different seasonings – try Italian herbs, garlic powder, or even a dash of cayenne for some heat. If you’re making these gluten-free, any 1:1 flour substitute will do the job. For extra flavor, mix in some shredded cheese or crispy bacon bits before cooking.

Serving Ideas

These tasty potato pancakes make a fantastic breakfast when topped with a fried egg and some hot sauce. For dinner, serve them as a side dish with grilled meats or fish. Beyond the classic sour cream topping, try applesauce for a sweet twist, or add a dollop of plain Greek yogurt with fresh herbs. They’re also great for brunch parties – set up a toppings bar and let everyone create their own!

Air Fryer Tips

For the crispiest results, don’t overcrowd your air fryer basket – leave a bit of space between each pancake. A light spray of oil on both sides will help them brown beautifully. If your first batch comes out too dark or light, adjust the cooking time by 1-2 minutes. Every air fryer is a little different!