If you’re obsessed with Taco John’s iconic Potato Olés, you’re going to love this easy air fryer version made with frozen crispy rounds and bold, zesty seasoning. They come out golden and crispy — just like the drive-thru favorite — but way healthier and faster at home.
Whether you’re pairing them with eggs, burgers, or tacos, these seasoned crispy rounds hit every craving: salty, spicy, and super satisfying.
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What Is Olé Seasoning?
One of my favorite jobs was when I was in college and I was working at Taco John’s. – Yep I did work there, and there is no Taco John’s anywhere in Fargo-Moorhead.
Good news, though, this seasoning is pretty accurate and you can toss it on some crispy rounds.
Olé seasoning is Taco John’s signature blend — a mix of savory, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors that makes their Potato Olés so addictive. It usually includes paprika, onion powder, garlic, seasoned salt, and just a hint of cayenne.
You can buy versions online or make a quick DIY blend right in your kitchen (see recipe below!).
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I used to love the seasoned Potato Oles with nacho cheese sauce at Taco John’s but sadly, we no longer have any Taco Johns any this area. They all left and I’ve been trying to figure out how to make them at home, and guess what, it’s pretty easy using your air fryer and just some seasoning.
Whether you’re pairing them with eggs for breakfast or serving them with burgers for dinner, this method gives you diner-style hash brown rounds with zero deep frying.
- Crispy perfection without needing oil or a skillet
- No flipping required — just pop them in and go
- Faster than the oven with better texture
- Perfect for busy mornings or lazy dinners
- Kid-friendly, budget-friendly, and foolproof
As someone who tests air fryer recipes constantly, I can tell you: these rounds get the crispiest texture with minimal effort. They’re a freezer staple in my house!
🛒 Ingredients Needed for Potato Ole Seasoning
- Frozen crispy rounds – Use your favorite brand (Ore-Ida, Aldi’s Season’s Choice, or Great Value all work!)
- Mix together:
- 2 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon sugar
- Store in a jar and shake on fries, crispy rounds, or roasted potatoes.
- Cooking spray (optional) – A light mist can enhance crispiness but isn’t necessary
- Seasoning of Choice
✅ Substitution Tip: You can use hash brown patties instead of rounds — just increase the cook time slightly. For thinner options like shredded hash browns, reduce the time and shake halfway.
Follow these instructions to make potato oles in the air fryer!
🔥 How to Cook Crispy Rounds in the Air Fryer
1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes
2. Arrange frozen rounds in a single layer in the basket (don’t overcrowd)
3. Air fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through
4. Cook longer if you like them extra crispy — add 2–3 more minutes. Season the potatoes with your favorite seasoning or one that is similar to the ones used at Taco John’s.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
🧠 Pro Tip: For extra golden texture, spray with avocado oil or olive oil spray right before cooking. Avoid butter-flavored sprays — they can burn. Try these frozen rounds with this Jamaican Jerk Chicken Seasoning or Trader Joe’s Bagel Seasoning Recipe
Oven Instructions
Here’s how to do it without burning the seasoning:
- Cook the frozen rounds as directed (400°F for 10–12 min)
- Immediately after air frying, toss the hot rounds in a bowl with a light spray of oil or melted butter (this helps the seasoning stick)
- Sprinkle generously with Potato Olé seasoning and toss to coat evenly
- Serve hot with salsa, sour cream, or queso for dipping 🌶️🧀
Recipe FAQS
While the exact recipe is a trade secret, it’s believed to contain seasoned salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and sometimes cayenne or chili powder for a subtle kick.
Taco John’s doesn’t officially sell it in stores nationwide, but you might find it at some restaurant locations, or from sellers on Etsy or Amazon. There are also DIY copycat recipes that come very close to the original flavor. But you can make your own homemade version of potato ole seasoning at home!
If you tried this Taco John’s Potato Ole Seasoning or any other recipe on my website, please please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how you go in the 📝 comments below. I love hearing from you! Follow along on Tiktok @jennarecipediaries
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Taco John’s Potato Ole Seasoning
Prep Time: 1 min
Cook Time: 12 min
Total Time: 13 min
Yield: 2 1x
Category: Easy
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: American
Description
If you’re obsessed with Taco John’s iconic Potato Olés, you’re going to love this easy air fryer version made with frozen crispy rounds and bold, zesty seasoning. They come out golden and crispy — just like the drive-thru favorite — but way healthier and faster at home.
Frozen crispy rounds – Use your favorite brand (Ore-Ida, Aldi’s Season’s Choice, or Great Value all work!)
¼ tsp cayenne (optional)
Instructions
Store in a jar and shake on fries, crispy rounds, or roasted potatoes.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes
Arrange frozen rounds in a single layer in the basket (don’t overcrowd)
Air fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through
Cook longer if you like them extra crispy — add 2–3 more minutes. Season the potatoes with your favorite seasoning or one that is similar to the ones used at Taco John’s.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
Cook the frozen rounds as directed (400°F for 10–12 min)
