This crispy air fryer baked potato is a game changer! It’s fluffy inside and crunchy outside, perfect for a quick and tasty side dish or snack.
I love how easy it is to make. Just pop it in the air fryer and relax while it cooks to perfection. Top it with butter and cheese, and you’re all set!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are perfect for baking due to their starchy texture. If you can’t find russets, Yukon gold potatoes can be a great substitute. They’re creamier but still give a nice exterior finish.
Olive Oil: I love using extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor. However, you can swap it with canola or avocado oil if you’re after a milder taste or looking for a higher smoke point.
Sea Salt: Sea salt provides great flavor, but you can easily use kosher salt as well. Just use a bit less, since kosher salt flakes are larger and might not stick as well.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper really elevates the dish, but if you’re in a pinch, pre-ground pepper is just fine to use.
Optional Toppings: The toppings are where you can get creative! Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a tangy, healthier option. You can also mix in different cheeses or add some steamed broccoli for extra nutrition.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Crispy Skin on Your Potatoes?
Achieving that crispy skin is one of the best parts of baked potatoes. Here are some easy steps to get it just right:
- Start by washing and drying the potatoes thoroughly; moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
- Poke enough holes with a fork. This prevents steam from building up inside, ensuring the skin gets crispy.
- Don’t skimp on the olive oil! It helps the skin crisp up nicely and adds flavor.
- Make sure to preheat your air fryer well. Starting with hot air cooks the skin quickly.
- Finally, turn the potatoes halfway through cooking. This promotes even crispiness all around.
Follow these tips, and your potatoes will come out perfectly crispy every time!
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Butter (for serving)
- Optional toppings: sour cream, chives, shredded cheese, bacon bits
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 35-40 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’ll need around 45-50 minutes to enjoy your delicious crispy baked potatoes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
Start by washing the russet potatoes under cold water. Make sure to scrub them well to get rid of any dirt. Once they’re clean, pat them dry gently with a paper towel. This helps them get crispy in the air fryer!
2. Poke Holes:
Take a fork and poke several holes all over each potato. This step is important because it lets steam escape while they cook, preventing any burst potatoes!
3. Season:
Now, rub each potato with olive oil using your hands. This helps the skin get nice and crispy. After that, sprinkle sea salt and black pepper evenly over them for extra flavor. Get a good coat so every bite is tasty!
4. Preheat Air Fryer:
Before you start cooking, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This should take about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures the potatoes start cooking immediately, making the skin crispy!
5. Cook the Potatoes:
Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding them to ensure even cooking. Cook them for 35-40 minutes. Remember to turn them halfway through the cooking time so they brown nicely all around!
6. Check for Doneness:
After the cooking time, use a fork to check if the potatoes are soft inside. If they aren’t quite done, pop them back in and cook in 5-minute increments until they’re perfect!
7. Serve:
Once the potatoes are done, carefully take them out of the air fryer. Cut them open to make a nice fluffy center, add a pat of butter, and top with your favorite extras—like sour cream, chives, shredded cheese, or bacon bits. Enjoy your crispy and delicious air fryer baked potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are perfect for that fluffy interior and crispy skin, you can also use Yukon Gold or Red potatoes. Just note that cooking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on them!
What If I Don’t Have an Air Fryer?
No problem! You can make these baked potatoes in a conventional oven. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake the potatoes for 45-60 minutes, turning them halfway through. Just like with the air fryer, poke holes and season them the same way!
How Can I 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 minutes, or in the microwave for a quick option, making sure they’re heated thoroughly.
Can I Prep These Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the potatoes by washing and poking holes in them a few hours ahead. Just keep them in a cool, dry place until you’re ready to cook. For longer storage, you can wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Just be sure to bring them back to room temperature before cooking for even cooking results!
