Go Back

Air Fryer Budget Potato Pie With Onion and Cheese – Simple, Cozy, and Affordable

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 to 2 pounds potatoes, thinly sliced (Yukon Gold or russet)
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 1.5 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
  • 1 cup milk or half-and-half (or 3/4 cup milk + 1/4 cup sour cream)
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or mixed herbs
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional but recommended)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan (optional, for extra savory punch)
  • Nonstick spray or a little oil for greasing the dish

Method
 

  1. Prep the potatoes: Wash and peel if you like. Slice thinly, about 1/8 inch. A mandoline helps, but a sharp knife works.
  2. Soften the onions: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook the sliced onion with a pinch of salt for 5–7 minutes until soft and lightly golden. Set aside.
  3. Make the quick sauce: In a bowl, whisk milk (or milk and sour cream), melted butter, garlic powder, thyme, smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon salt, and several grinds of pepper. Stir in Parmesan if using.
  4. Grease your dish: Choose an air fryer–safe round or square baking dish that fits your basket. Lightly grease with nonstick spray or a little oil.
  5. Layer one: Add a thin layer of potatoes to cover the bottom. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  6. Add onions and cheese: Scatter some of the sautéed onions and a small handful of cheese over the potatoes.
  7. Repeat layers: Keep layering potatoes, onions, and cheese until you’re near the top, finishing with potatoes. Pour the sauce evenly over everything, gently tilting the dish so it settles in.
  8. Top and oil: Add the remaining cheese on top and drizzle with the last tablespoon of olive oil for extra browning.
  9. Air fry: Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3 minutes. Place the dish in the basket and cook for 25 minutes.
  10. Check and cover if needed: If the top is browning too quickly while the center is not yet tender, loosely cover with foil and continue cooking 10–15 minutes, until a knife slides through easily.
  11. Finish hot and crisp: Remove the foil for the last 3–5 minutes to get a bubbly, golden top. Total time is usually 35–45 minutes, depending on your air fryer and slice thickness.
  12. Rest and serve: Let the pie rest for 10 minutes to set. Slice into wedges and serve warm.