Your air fryer is about to make the best baked potato you’ve ever had! These potatoes come out perfectly crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside—just the way we like them.
Trust me, once you try this easy method, you’ll forget about the oven. I love loading mine with butter, cheese, and chives. Yum! Get ready for some deliciousness! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are the best choice for baked potatoes, as they have a fluffy texture when cooked. If you prefer, other varieties like Idaho or sweet potatoes work well too, although sweet potatoes will give a different flavor.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds to the crispy skin and enhances flavor. If you’re looking for a different taste, you can substitute with melted butter or avocado oil for a healthier option.
Coarse Sea Salt: This salt gives a delightful crunch and flavor. If you don’t have it, regular table salt works too, but use less since it’s finer and saltier.
Optional Toppings: Get creative! Instead of sour cream, Greek yogurt gives a tangy twist. You can also add sautéed vegetables or herbs for a fresh touch. The toppings are all about personal preference!
How Can You Achieve the Perfect Crisp in Air Fryer Baked Potatoes?
The secret to achieving that crispy skin lies in a few simple steps. First, make sure to evenly coat the potatoes with olive oil. This not only promotes crispiness but also enhances flavor. Then, poking holes is crucial; it lets steam escape, so the potatoes cook well without bursting.
- Preheat your air fryer—this helps start the cooking process immediately.
- Cook at 400°F (200°C) for even crisping, turning them halfway ensures even cooking.
- Let them cool slightly after cooking; it helps the skin firm up.
Follow these tips, and you will have perfectly crispy and fluffy baked potatoes every time!
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Baked Potato
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Baked Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Butter, for serving
Optional Toppings:
- Sour cream
- Chives
- Cheese
- Bacon bits
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and about 35-40 minutes for cooking in the air fryer. Just a little patience, and you’ll have deliciously crispy baked potatoes ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
First, set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat while you prepare the potatoes. This helps to create that perfect crispy skin!
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Give the potatoes a good wash and scrub under running water to remove any dirt. Then, dry them off with a clean towel. This step is important to ensure they get crispy!
3. Poke the Potatoes:
Using a fork, poke several holes all around each potato. This allows steam to escape while they cook, which helps them cook evenly and get that tender texture inside.
4. Coat the Potatoes:
Rub each potato with olive oil, making sure they are nicely coated. This will help achieve a golden-brown, crispy skin. Then, sprinkle the coarse sea salt and black pepper on top, ensuring each potato is evenly seasoned.
5. Cook the Potatoes:
Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket. Make sure there’s some space between them for air circulation. Cook them for 35-40 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure even cooking. They are done when they feel tender inside and the skin looks crispy.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, carefully take the potatoes out of the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, cut them open and add a generous pat of butter in the center. Let it melt deliciously! You can also top your baked potatoes with any optional toppings you like, such as sour cream, chives, cheese, or bacon bits.
Serve hot and enjoy your crispy air fryer baked potatoes! Yum!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are perfect for baking due to their starchy nature, you can also use Yukon Gold or even sweet potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary; check doneness frequently as they might cook a bit faster or slower depending on the type.
How Do I Make This Recipe Vegan-Friendly?
To turn these baked potatoes into a vegan dish, simply substitute the butter with vegan butter or a drizzle of olive oil when serving. You can also top them with dairy-free sour cream or cheese for extra flavor!
Can I Prepare the Potatoes in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the potatoes in advance! Wash and scrub them, poke holes, and coat them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Then, wrap them in plastic wrap and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just pop them in the air fryer when you’re ready to cook!
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have leftover baked potatoes, store them 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 until heated through, ensuring the skin stays crispy!
