This air fryer baked potato is crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside! It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy a classic side dish, perfect for any meal.
You won’t believe how fast it cooks! I love topping mine with butter and a sprinkle of salt—it’s like a little hug for your taste buds! 🥔❤️
Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are the best for baking due to their starchy texture, which results in a fluffy inside. If you can’t find russets, Idaho potatoes are a close substitute.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps the skin crisp up. You can use other oils like avocado or canola if olive oil isn’t available, but I enjoy the taste of olive oil best!
Sea Salt & Black Pepper: They enhance the potato’s flavor. If you prefer less sodium, use a salt substitute or reduce the amount. A sprinkle of garlic powder also adds a nice touch!
Butter: It adds richness to the baked potato. If you want a healthier option, try Greek yogurt for a creamy alternative without the calories.
Optional Toppings: Get creative! Sautéed mushrooms, chili, or even a dollop of guacamole are great choices for toppings!
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Crispy Potato Skins?
Getting a crispy skin on your baked potatoes is all about preparation and cooking technique. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by thoroughly washing your potatoes to remove any dirt. This is key to a clean taste and prevents stepping of flavors.
- Don’t skip the piercing step! Use a fork to prick each potato several times. This allows steam to escape and keeps them from bursting during cooking.
- Rub each potato with olive oil evenly. This helps achieve that golden, crispy skin, which is the highlight of baked potatoes.
- Make sure to space out the potatoes in the air fryer basket. Proper airflow is essential for even cooking and crispiness.
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Potatoes:
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Sea salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 4 tablespoons butter (or to taste)
Optional Toppings:
- Sour cream
- Chives
- Cheese
- Bacon bits
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 35-40 minutes for cooking in the air fryer. In total, you’re looking at about 50 minutes to enjoy your crispy air fryer baked potatoes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer:
Begin by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for getting those potatoes nice and crispy!
2. Prepare The Potatoes:
Give your russet potatoes a thorough wash under running water to remove any dirt. After washing, pat them dry with a towel to ensure they’re not wet when you cook them.
3. Poke Some Holes:
Using a fork, poke each potato several times on all sides. This allows steam to escape while cooking, so your potatoes won’t burst. Safety first!
4. Oil and Season:
Rub each potato with olive oil until they are well coated. This helps create that crispy skin we all love. Then, sprinkle them generously with sea salt and black pepper for extra flavor.
5. Air Fry Your Potatoes:
Carefully place the prepared potatoes in the air fryer basket. Make sure they’re not touching each other to allow proper airflow. Cook them for about 35 to 40 minutes, until the skins are crispy and you can easily pierce them with a fork.
6. Finish and Serve:
Once cooked, take the potatoes out of the air fryer (they’ll be hot, so mind your hands!). Allow them to cool for a couple of minutes. Cut the top of each potato open and add a tablespoon of butter to each one, letting it melt into the warm potato. Add your favorite toppings like sour cream, chives, shredded cheese, or bacon bits.
Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious, crispy air fryer baked potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are ideal for their fluffy texture, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check for doneness with a fork.
How Can I Store Leftover Baked Potatoes?
Store any leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
Can I Prepare These Potatoes in Advance?
Yes! You can wash and pierce the potatoes a day ahead. Store them in the fridge wrapped in a damp paper towel. When ready to cook, just season and pop them in the air fryer. They may take a few extra minutes to cook if they’re very cold!
What Should I Do If My Potatoes Are Not Crispy Enough?
If your potatoes aren’t crispy after the recommended cooking time, try increasing the temperature to 425°F (220°C) and cook for another 5-10 minutes. Just keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
