Crispy Air Fryer Potato Latkes Recipe

Ninja Air Fryer latkes are an easy, reliable way to turn shredded potatoes into crispy, hand-held potato pancakes. A Hanukkah favorite, these crunchy latkes are so good you’ll want to make them year-round.

Latkes don’t require religious affiliation to enjoy — they’re simply delicious. This fail-proof, traditional latke recipe works perfectly in an air fryer. I often use either all-purpose flour or crushed matzo as the binder; both produce great results. The method below adapts a family favorite for the air fryer, producing crisp exteriors and tender centers with less oil than pan-frying.

I learned this particular recipe from a longtime friend whose family is Jewish. Over the years she shared traditions and recipes, and one of her friends (Jen) taught us how she makes her latkes. I adapted that version for the air fryer, so the credit for the base recipe goes to her.

What are Latkes?

Latkes are potato pancakes traditionally associated with Hanukkah. They’re similar to other potato pancake recipes but often follow family-specific methods and ingredient choices. Some recipes add baking powder, matzo meal, or milk; others use different binders. Latkes are typically shredded potatoes mixed with a binder and seasonings, formed into patties, and fried until crisp.

Ninja Foodi Latkes

You can cook latkes in any air fryer or air-crisp appliance, including the Ninja Foodi. The main difference between devices is basket size — a larger basket means you can cook more at once. The key is to arrange latkes in a single layer so they crisp evenly. If you use a Ninja Foodi, use the air-crisp setting and its attached lid for best results.

While russet potatoes are classic, you can also make sweet potato latkes or try colorful varieties for fun. Mix-and-match options are a great way to make latkes appealing to kids and guests.

Ingredient Notes

Start with shredded russet and Yukon gold potatoes; leaving the skin on adds texture and flavor. After shredding, place the potatoes on a towel or paper towels and press to remove as much moisture as possible — this is essential for crispiness.

• Binder: Use all-purpose flour or matzo meal to absorb moisture and help the latkes hold together.
• Eggs: Eggs help bind the mixture; we prefer organic, free-range eggs when possible.
• Onion: Finely diced onion is optional but adds classic latke flavor.
• Seasoning: Salt, pepper, and garlic powder are simple and effective; season to taste.
• Oil spray: A light spray of olive oil or another neutral oil will help the latkes crisp in the air fryer.

Substitutions

If you don’t have matzo meal, all-purpose flour works well. Fresh potatoes are best, but thawed frozen hash browns can be used in a pinch if you squeeze out excess moisture. For a variation, try sweet potatoes or other potato varieties.

Cooking Tips

Drying the shredded potatoes thoroughly is the most important step for crispy latkes. After shredding, wrap the potatoes in a towel or paper towels and press firmly to remove water. This prevents sogginess and ensures the binder holds.

Flipping latkes halfway through cooking improves browning on both sides. I like to spray the tops lightly with oil after flipping to encourage an even golden crust.

How to Cook Latkes in Air Fryer

Rinse and dry the potatoes, then shred them in a food processor or with a box grater, leaving the skin on. Transfer the shreds to several layers of paper towels or a clean kitchen towel, fold, and press to remove as much moisture as possible. Pour the drained shreds into a large mixing bowl.

1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (approximately 5 minutes).
2. Stir in onion (if using), eggs, flour or matzo meal, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
3. Use about 3 heaping tablespoons of mixture to form each latke. Squeeze gently in your palms to form a compact patty.
4. Spray the air fryer basket with oil and place the latkes in a single layer without overlapping.
5. Lightly spray the tops of the latkes with oil.
6. Air fry for about 15 minutes total, flipping halfway through and spraying again after flipping, until both sides are golden and crisp.
7. Remove when browned to your liking and serve immediately with sour cream, applesauce, or toppings of your choice.

How Long to Cook Frozen Latkes in Air Fryer

Frozen latkes (such as store-bought varieties) cook well in the air fryer. Preheat the machine to 400°F for 5 minutes, spray the basket lightly, arrange frozen latkes in a single layer without overlapping, and cook at 400°F for about 9 minutes or until browned and crisp all the way around. Adjust time based on size and thickness.

Air Fryer Latkes Recipe

How to save leftovers

Latkes are best fresh but keep well overnight. Place cooled latkes on paper towels and store in a single layer inside a sealed container or freezer bag in the fridge. Reheat in the air fryer to restore crispness, or warm in the microwave if preferred.

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