Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes are a crispy, creamy, and cheesy delight perfect as a side dish or a hearty snack. By using the air fryer, you get a wonderfully crisp skin and a smooth, flavorful filling in half the time of traditional oven baking. These potatoes are customizable and perfect for family dinners, holiday meals, or game day spreads.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
russet potatossour creamshredded cheddar cheesebuttermilkgreen onionssaltblack peppergarlic powderolive oilcooked bacon bits (optional)
directions
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Scrub and dry the potatoes. Rub them with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket and cook for 35-40 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
Let the potatoes cool slightly, then slice them in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides into a mixing bowl, leaving a thin shell.
Mash the scooped potato with sour cream, butter, cheese, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until smooth and creamy.
Fold in green onions and bacon bits if using.
Spoon the mixture back into the potato skins, mounding slightly.
Return the stuffed potatoes to the air fryer and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until the tops are golden and slightly crisp.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 4 twice-baked potato halves.Preparation time: 10 minutesFirst air fry time: 35-40 minutesMixing and stuffing time: 10 minutesSecond air fry time: 5-7 minutesTotal time: 60 minutes
Variations
Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Use different cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda for new flavor profiles.
Add steamed broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or caramelized onions for a veggie boost.
Top with hot sauce or ranch dressing for extra flavor.
storage/reheating
Store leftover twice baked potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.To reheat, air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5-6 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.You can freeze stuffed potatoes before the second bake and reheat directly from frozen at 375°F for 10-12 minutes.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and stuff the potatoes, then refrigerate or freeze until ready to reheat and serve.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Preheating helps ensure a crispy skin, but if your model doesn’t require it, you can skip.
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Russets are best due to their size and fluffy interior, but large Yukon golds can also work.
What if I don’t have sour cream?
You can use Greek yogurt, cream cheese, or even mashed avocado for a creamy texture.
Can I make these vegetarian?
Yes, just omit the bacon and load up on your favorite veggies and cheese.
Why are my potatoes hard in the center?
They likely need more time in the air fryer. Test with a fork before moving to the next step.
Can I bake the second time in the oven?
Yes, bake at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes until hot and golden on top.
What toppings go well?
Chives, extra cheese, salsa, hot sauce, or ranch dressing are all delicious options.
Can I scale this recipe up?
Absolutely, just cook in batches if your air fryer is small.
Are these good for meal prep?
Yes, they store and reheat very well, making them a great make-ahead option.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes are a flavorful, satisfying twist on the classic baked potato, made quicker and crispier thanks to the air fryer. With endless variations and simple steps, they’re an easy go-to for weeknight meals or special occasions. Try them once, and you’ll want them in your regular rotation.
PrintAir Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and creamy twice-baked potatoes made in the air fryer for a quick and crispy side dish or appetizer.
Ingredients
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Scrub the potatoes and dry them. Pierce each with a fork and lightly spray with olive oil.
- Place potatoes in the air fryer basket and cook for 35-40 minutes or until tender.
- Let the potatoes cool slightly, then cut each in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides into a bowl, leaving a 1/4-inch shell.
- Mash the potato insides with sour cream, milk, butter, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Stir in half the cheese, bacon, and green onions.
- Spoon the mixture back into the potato shells and top with remaining cheese.
- Return stuffed potatoes to the air fryer and cook at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and tops are golden.
- Garnish with remaining bacon and green onions before serving.
Notes
- You can make the filling ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to air fry.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon or use a meat-free substitute.
- Try adding garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor.