Air Fryer Baked Potato Recipe
Looking for new air fryer recipes to elevate your meals? This air fryer baked potato recipe delivers perfectly crispy skin and a fluffy interior in less time than traditional oven baking. It’s a game-changer for quick weeknight dinners, hearty sides, or customizable loaded potatoes for any occasion!
Ingredients
- 3 medium russet potatoes (about 300 grams each)
- 1½ tablespoons oil (olive or vegetable oil works best)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
If your air fryer requires preheating, set it to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Prep the Potatoes
- Wash and Dry: Thoroughly rinse the potatoes and pat them dry.
- Season: Rub each potato with oil, then generously season with salt and pepper. Optionally, pierce the center of each potato once with a fork to prevent bursting.
Step 3: Cook the Potatoes
- Arrange in Basket: Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each one for even cooking.
- Bake: Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 40 minutes.
Step 4: Check for Doneness
Insert a sharp knife into the center of a potato. If it slides in easily, it’s done. If not, continue cooking for 5–10 minutes, checking periodically.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the potatoes from the air fryer and serve immediately. Customize with your favorite toppings or pair with your main dish.
Tips and FAQs
Should I wrap my potatoes in foil?
No! Wrapping in foil traps steam, which prevents the skin from getting crispy.
Do I need to prick the potatoes?
This step is optional. Pricking prevents steam buildup, but it’s rare for a potato to burst in an air fryer.
Why is the air fryer faster than the oven?
Air fryers circulate hot air in a compact space, speeding up cooking time. While oven-baked potatoes take over an hour, air fryer potatoes are ready in about 40–45 minutes.
How do I reheat baked potatoes?
Reheat in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 5–10 minutes. Dab off any condensation before reheating for the best results.
Topping Ideas for Loaded Potatoes
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, gouda, or your favorite)
- Crispy bacon crumbles
- Sliced green onions or chives
- Sour cream or melted butter
- Steamed broccoli
- Chili or queso
- Salsa or crispy fried onions
Perfect Pairings
These air fryer baked potatoes pair wonderfully with:
- Roast chicken or pork tenderloin
- Barbecue ribs or pulled pork
- Italian beef or slow-cooked chicken thighs
Ideas with leftover potatoes
- Breakfast Hash: Dice and pan-fry with onions and bell peppers.
- Soup Additions: Add to creamy potato soup or ham and potato soup.
- Casseroles: Incorporate into a cheesy ham and potato casserole for a quick meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Air fryer baked potatoes are crispy, fluffy, and endlessly customizable, making them a staple in your new air fryer recipes collection. Whether for a casual dinner or a party side dish, they’re quick, easy, and always satisfying.