Air Fryer Baked Potato

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Air Fryer Baked Potatoes are the perfect combination of crispy skin and fluffy interior, made effortlessly with minimal prep. Using the air fryer reduces cooking time compared to the oven while delivering that classic baked potato texture. Ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep, they pair beautifully with a wide range of toppings from butter and cheese to sour cream and chives.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
russet potatoesolive oilsaltoptional toppings (butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, bacon bits, chives, etc.)

directions

Scrub the potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry with a paper towel.

Pierce each potato a few times with a fork to allow steam to escape.

Rub each potato with a light coating of olive oil, then sprinkle with salt.

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.

Cook for 35-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the skin is crispy and a fork easily pierces the center.

Carefully remove the potatoes from the air fryer and let them cool for a couple of minutes.

Slice open, fluff the inside with a fork, and add your favorite toppings.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 2–4 baked potatoes depending on size.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Air frying time: 35–45 minutes
Total time: 40–50 minutes

Variations

Use sweet potatoes for a naturally sweeter twist.

Add garlic powder or smoked paprika to the salt for extra flavor.

Top with chili and shredded cheese for a hearty loaded potato.

Swap olive oil for bacon fat for a richer taste.

storage/reheating

Store leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, return them to the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5–8 minutes, or microwave for 2–3 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, but russet potatoes yield the best baked texture due to their starchy interior.

Do I have to preheat the air fryer?
Preheating ensures an even, crispy skin, but if your air fryer doesn’t require it, you can skip this step.

Why are my potatoes not soft inside?
They may need more time or be too large. Try cooking a bit longer and test with a fork.

Can I bake more than four potatoes at once?
Yes, as long as they fit without overcrowding. Increase cook time slightly if needed.

Should I wrap the potatoes in foil?
No, wrapping traps moisture and prevents the skin from crisping up in the air fryer.

Can I make them ahead of time?
Absolutely—just reheat before serving and add fresh toppings.

Do I need to flip the potatoes?
Flipping ensures even cooking and a uniformly crispy skin.

Are air fryer baked potatoes healthier?
They use less oil and no butter for cooking, making them a lighter alternative to traditional oven-baked potatoes.

What toppings go best with air fryer baked potatoes?
Classic choices include butter, sour cream, cheese, bacon bits, and fresh herbs.

Can I freeze baked potatoes?
Yes, but the texture may change. Wrap tightly and reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Baked Potatoes are a quick, easy, and delicious side or main dish that delivers all the flavor and texture of traditional baked potatoes in less time. With minimal effort and endless topping options, this recipe is a must-try for busy weeknights or a satisfying snack anytime.

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