Air fryer baked potatoes might just be the simplest, most satisfying dish you can whip up for a cozy dinner at home. With a crispy skin and fluffy inside, these potatoes are perfect for those nights when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. Not only are they easy to prepare, but you can customize them with your favorite toppings, making them a hit for both weeknight meals and gatherings.
Why you’ll love this dish
Air fryer baked potatoes aren’t just delicious; they’re also a breeze to make. They come out perfectly crispy every time, and with just a handful of simple ingredients, you can have a hearty side or main dish ready in no time. Plus, they’re budget-friendly, which is always a perk when you’re feeding a family.
"These are the best baked potatoes I’ve ever made! The air fryer gives them a perfect texture!" — A happy reader
How to Make Air Fryer Baked Potato
Making air fryer baked potatoes is so straightforward—it’s just a matter of prepping the potatoes and letting the air fryer do its magic. You’ll love how easy it is to achieve that deliciously crispy exterior and fluffy interior, all while freeing up your oven for other dishes!
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What you’ll need
Gather these items for your air fryer baked potatoes:
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, chives, cheese, bacon bits
Feel free to swap in different types of potatoes if you prefer. Yukon Golds can work well, too!
Step-by-step instructions
Let’s dive into how to get those perfectly baked potatoes!
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash the potatoes thoroughly and dry them. It’s important to remove any dirt or debris so they cook evenly.
- Poke several holes in each potato with a fork to allow steam to escape during cooking.
- Rub the potatoes with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper for that extra flavor boost.
- Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving plenty of space for air circulation.
- Cook for 35 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and crispy. You can check them with a fork or knife to ensure they’re cooked through.
- Carefully remove the potatoes from the air fryer, let them cool for a few minutes, then serve with your choice of toppings.
Best ways to enjoy it
Air fryer baked potatoes are incredibly versatile! Top them with your favorite toppings like creamy sour cream, fresh chives, shredded cheese, or crispy bacon bits. The options are endless! Pair them with a salad for a light dinner or serve them alongside grilled meats or your favorite hearty stews.
Storage and reheating tips
Got leftovers? No problem! Simply store your baked potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes until warmed through. You can also wrap them in foil and warm them in the oven if you prefer.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a few pro tips for perfectly baked potatoes every time:
- Don’t skip the pricking step! This helps steam escape and prevents them from bursting in the fryer.
- If you like your skins extra crispy, brush on a bit more olive oil halfway through cooking.
- For a fun twist, try seasoning the potatoes with garlic powder, onion powder, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika for added depth of flavor.
Recipe variations
Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Consider adding chili, sautéed veggies, or even a dollop of homemade pesto. You can also try using different oils like avocado oil for a unique flavor profile.
Common questions
How long does it take to bake a potato in the air fryer?
It typically takes about 35 minutes at 400°F (200°C). However, cooking time may vary depending on the size of the potatoes.
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are perfect for baking, Yukon Gold, red potatoes, or even sweet potatoes can also work well.
What if I want a dairy-free option for toppings?
No problem! You can try using dairy-free sour cream or a drizzle of olive oil with herbs for a light alternative.
Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy-skinned, fluffy inside air fryer baked potatoes customizable with your favorite toppings for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, chives, cheese, bacon bits
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash the potatoes thoroughly and dry them.
- Poke several holes in each potato with a fork to allow steam to escape during cooking.
- Rub the potatoes with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 35 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and crispy.
- Remove the potatoes and let them cool for a few minutes before serving with your choice of toppings.
Notes
For extra crispy skins, brush on more olive oil halfway through cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 potato
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg