This crispy air fryer baked potato is a game changer! It comes out perfectly fluffy inside with a deliciously crunchy skin. Just the way a baked potato should be!
Who knew making baked potatoes could be this easy? I love topping mine with butter and cheese—it’s a perfect side for any meal. You might get hooked too! 🥔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These potatoes are perfect for baking due to their fluffy interior. If you’re in a pinch, you can use Yukon Gold potatoes, which offer a creamier texture, though they may not be as fluffy.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps achieve that crispy skin. If you’re looking for a different option, try avocado oil or melted butter. Both work well for this recipe!
Sea Salt & Black Pepper: These seasonings are essential for enhancing the potato’s natural flavor. You could swap sea salt for kosher salt or use seasoning blends for an extra kick.
Butter or Sour Cream: These add creaminess to your baked potatoes. If you’re vegan, consider using vegan butter or a cashew cream instead!
Chives or Green Onions: These are great for garnish and add a pop of color. If you don’t have these on hand, parsley or even shredded cheese can brighten up your dish.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Crispiness with My Air Fryer?
To get that crunchy exterior, the key lies in the preparation and cooking process. Start by coating your potatoes evenly with oil; this helps them crisp up beautifully. Don’t skip the step of poking holes in them. This allows steam to escape, preventing them from getting soggy inside.
- Preheat the air fryer to ensure an even cook. This step is crucial!
- Cook the potatoes in a single layer, leaving space between them for airflow.
- Turn the potatoes halfway through cooking to promote even crisping.
- Testing for doneness at the end is crucial — they should feel tender when pierced with a fork.
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Baked Potato
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For Serving (Optional):
- Butter or sour cream
- Chopped chives or green onions for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and 35-40 minutes to cook in the air fryer. So, you’ll be enjoying your delicious crispy baked potatoes in just under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This will help your potatoes get that perfect crispy skin!
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
While the air fryer is heating up, scrub the russet potatoes under cold water to clean them thoroughly. Once cleaned, pat them dry with a paper towel so they’re nice and dry.
3. Poke and Season:
Poke each potato several times with a fork. This allows steam to escape during cooking, preventing any bursts. Then, rub each potato with olive oil to coat them evenly, and sprinkle sea salt and black pepper all over for added flavor.
4. Cook the Potatoes:
Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they’re not overcrowded. Cook them at 400°F (200°C) for 35-40 minutes. Remember to turn them halfway through cooking for even crispiness!
5. Check for Doneness:
After the cooking time, check if the potatoes are done by inserting a fork or knife into one. It should feel tender inside. If they need more time, pop them back in for a few extra minutes.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, carefully remove the potatoes from the air fryer and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Slice them open and fluff the insides with a fork. Add a pat of butter or a dollop of sour cream on top and sprinkle with chopped chives or green onions if you like. Serve immediately and enjoy your crispy air fryer baked potatoes!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! While russet potatoes are the best choice for fluffy baked potatoes, you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the size and type of potato.
What if My Potatoes are Smaller or Larger?
If your potatoes are smaller, they might only need about 25-30 minutes of cooking time. For larger potatoes, extend the cooking time to 45-50 minutes, checking for tenderness with a fork as you go!
Can I Prepare These Potatoes in Advance?
Absolutely! You can wash and prep the potatoes a day ahead. Just wrap them in a damp paper towel and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to air fry. They might take a couple of extra minutes to cook if they’re cold.
How to Store Leftover Baked Potatoes?
Store any leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again!
