Picture this: fluffy, piping-hot potato insides tucked inside a perfectly crisp, golden shell—all from your air fryer! Air Fryer Baked Potatoes are a total game changer, bringing together everything you crave about traditional baked potatoes, but in a fraction of the time and with irresistibly crunchy skins. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or need a quick, crowd-pleasing side, this method guarantees results that never disappoint. Get ready to fall in love with your air fryer all over again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of basics for these Air Fryer Baked Potatoes, but don’t be fooled: each one plays its part in building that crave-worthy combo of crispy exterior and tender, fluffy middle. The right potatoes, oil, and salt make all the difference, and the toppings turn each serving into a customizable treat.
- Russet potatoes (4 medium, scrubbed and dried): These are the MVPs for baked potatoes because their starchy flesh becomes super fluffy inside while the skins crisp up beautifully.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): Just a light coating creates a gorgeous golden crust and adds subtle flavor.
- Kosher salt (1 tsp): Large, flaky grains bring out the earthiness of the potatoes and give the crust maximum flavor.
- Optional toppings: butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, bacon bits, chives: These let everyone dress up their Air Fryer Baked Potatoes exactly how they like.
How to Make Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Give your air fryer a head start by preheating it to 400°F for about 3 to 5 minutes. Preheating ensures immediate, consistent heat so the potato skins begin crisping up right from the start.
Step 2: Prep the Potatoes
Grab your russet potatoes and pat them dry—the drier the skin, the crispier they’ll get. Rub each potato all over with olive oil, making sure every inch is coated for that signature restaurant-style bite. Then sprinkle them evenly with kosher salt, pressing gently so it sticks.
Step 3: Arrange and Air Fry
Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, with a little space between each for optimal air flow. Air fry them for 35 to 40 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crisping. You’ll know they’re done when a fork slides easily into the center and the skins sound satisfyingly crackly.
Step 4: Cool, Fluff, and Serve
Once done, carefully remove the potatoes (they’ll be hot!) and let them cool for a few minutes. Slice each open, then use a fork to fluff the interiors to perfection. Now, pile on the toppings you love—these Air Fryer Baked Potatoes are ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
Garnishes
Classic toppings are always a hit! Think pats of creamy butter, dollops of cool sour cream, a generous sprinkle of cheddar cheese, crunchy bacon bits, and a dusting of fresh chives. Each adds its own touch—richness, tang, sharpness, or a little bite.
Side Dishes
Air Fryer Baked Potatoes are the ultimate chameleons at the dinner table. Pair them with a crisp salad for a light meal, load up the plate next to grilled meats, or set them alongside a veggie-packed soup for pure comfort food bliss. They complement just about any main or side!
Creative Ways to Present
Why not try a baked potato bar? Offer an array of toppings so everyone can craft their perfect spud. Or scoop out the fluffy centers, mix with savory add-ins, and refill the skins for twice-baked potatoes with air fryer magic! The possibilities for making these Air Fryer Baked Potatoes your own are endless.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (lucky you!), let your Air Fryer Baked Potatoes cool completely, then wrap them tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep well for up to 4 days, ready for easy lunches or dinners.
Freezing
You can definitely freeze these potatoes for longer storage. Place cooled, un-topped potatoes in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. They’ll stay tasty for up to 3 months; just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
For the best texture, pop refrigerated or thawed potatoes back in your air fryer at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes, until heated through and the skins are crispy again. Microwaving works in a pinch, though the skin won’t be quite as snappy.
FAQs
Can I use potatoes other than russets?
Russets work best due to their high starch content, but Yukon Golds will deliver a creamier interior, though with slightly less crispy skin. Smaller potatoes like reds or fingerlings can be made as mini versions—just reduce the cooking time.
How do I know when my Air Fryer Baked Potatoes are done?
The potatoes are done when the skins feel crispy and a knife or fork easily pierces the center. If you’re unsure, give them an extra few minutes—you really can’t overdo it as long as you don’t burn the skins!
Do I need to poke holes in the potatoes before air frying?
While some recipes advise poking potatoes with a fork to let steam escape, it’s generally not needed in the air fryer. The hot, circulating air prevents them from bursting. If it makes you feel better, poke a few holes—otherwise, skip it!
Can I make these Air Fryer Baked Potatoes vegan?
Absolutely! Omit butter, cheese, and sour cream, or use plant-based versions. Tasty vegan toppings include salsa, guacamole, sautéed mushrooms, or vegan cheese.
Why should I use olive oil and kosher salt on the skin?
Don’t skip this step! Olive oil helps the skin get gorgeously golden and crisp, and kosher salt enhances flavor and gives a savory crunch in every bite. It takes these Air Fryer Baked Potatoes from good to truly crave-worthy.
Final Thoughts
If you love potatoes even half as much as I do, bring these Air Fryer Baked Potatoes into your kitchen rotation. With their perfectly crisp skin and tender, steamy insides, they’re sure to become a staple. Grab your favorite toppings and start air frying—you’re in for a cozy, satisfying treat!
Print
Air Fryer Baked Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 baked potatoes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Learn how to make crispy and delicious Air Fryer Baked Potatoes with this easy recipe. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal, these potatoes are fluffy on the inside and crispy on the outside.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 4 medium russet potatoes (scrubbed and dried)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp kosher salt
Optional Toppings:
- butter
- sour cream
- shredded cheese
- bacon bits
- chives
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 3–5 minutes.
- Prepare Potatoes: Rub each potato with olive oil and sprinkle evenly with kosher salt.
- Air Fry: Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them. Air fry for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve: Remove from the air fryer, let cool slightly, slice open, fluff the insides, and serve with desired toppings.
Notes
- Cooking time may vary depending on potato size and air fryer model.
- For extra crispy skin, air fry an additional 3–5 minutes.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge and reheated in the air fryer.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 potato
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
