Make the BEST Air Fryer Baked Potatoes the easy way! These potatoes are tender and flaky on the inside, with an amazing super crispy skin. Keep them simple with butter,seasoned with salt, and pepper, or load them up with your favorite toppings for a side dish that’s outstanding.
I’ve had great success cooking Sweet Potatoes, Brussel Sprouts, Baby Potatoes, and Chicken Wings in my air fryer. Because of that, I had a good feeling that turning russet potatoes into delicious baked potatoes would be easy. I was right! From now on, this is the only way I’ll be making one of my family’s favorite side dishes.
This air fryer baked potato recipe produces a soft, evenly cooked spud that is like nothing you’ve had before. The outside is crispy and salty, and if you are one of those people who’s always left the skin of a baked potato on your plate, well, those days are gone.
What Kind Of Potato Is Best To Use?
Russet potatoes, also known as Idaho potatoes, are best for baking. Once baked, they will have a soft and fluffy center. Ensure all your potatoes are the same size so they cook evenly.
How To Make The Best Baked Potatoes In The Air Fryer
- Wash and scrub the potatoes, then pat them dry with a dishtowel. Using a fork, poke holes in the potatoes.
- Place potatoes on a cutting board or in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with kosher salt and rub to coat the potatoes.
- Place potatoes in the air fryer basket and cook on 400 degrees for 30 to 35 minutes. After 30 minutes, test the potatoes with a fork. IIf not, cook for an additional 5-8 minutes. (Preheat the air fryer if needed)
- Carefully remove the potatoes from the air fryer using oven mitts. Slice open the top of the potato and squeeze the ends to release the steam.
- Add butter, salt, pepper, or turn them into air fryer twice-baked potatoes stuffed with cheese, bacon, and sour cream.
Items Needed To Make This Recipe
- Air Fryer – I have two favorites that I use depending on how much food I’m cooking. The Ninja 4-quart is great for cooking just a couple of potatoes, and the Power XL works wonderfully for 3-4 potatoes.
- Tongs – for removing the potatoes.
Baked Potato Toppings
- Sour Cream: Creamy and tangy, it adds a rich flavor and balances the potato’s earthiness.
- Chives/Green Onions: Fresh and mild, they provide a light onion flavor and a pop of color.
- Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a sharp, savory kick that complements the potato.
- Bacon Bits: Crispy and salty introduce a savory crunch and enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Broccoli: Steamed or roasted, it adds a nutritious touch and a slight bitterness that contrasts well with the richness of the potato.
- Butter: A classic choice, melting butter brings a luxurious creaminess and enhances the potato’s natural flavor.
- Guacamole: Creamy and flavorful, it offers a fresh twist and adds healthy fats to your baked potato.
- Chili: Hearty and filling, chili transforms a simple potato into a comforting and satisfying meal.
- Greek Yogurt: A healthier alternative to sour cream, it adds creaminess and a slight tang while being lower in fat.
Can You Freeze Baked Potatoes?
Baked potatoes can be frozen, but they don’t freeze well because they lack the richness of cheese or sour cream. I recommend turning them into Stuffed Baked Potatoes and then freezing them. To serve, let them thaw in the fridge, then heat in the oven or the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions And Answers
Tips For Making The Best Baked Potatoes In The Air Fryer
- Select potatoes that are about the same size.
- Russet potatoes are the best for baking. They are starchy and allow all the toppings to be absorbed. YUM!
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. You want the air to circulate evenly over the potatoes.
- make sure to pierce potatoes before air frying. The holes help any steam release during the cooking process
Air Fryer Baked Potato Topping Ideas
- Butter, salt, and pepper are classic toppings that can’t be beaten along with cool sour cream and chives.
- Add Avocado Salsa and Slow Cooker Mexican Shredded Beef for a south-of-the-border twist.
- Turn baked potatoes into a main dish by spooning on Bloody Mary Chili, then top with cheese and sour cream.
- For game day, set up a baked potato bar along with Game Day Meatballs, Meatlovers Stuffed French Bread Pizza, and Air Fryer Hot Dogs.
Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
Ingredients
- 2 – 3 russet potatoes
- olive oil
- kosher salt
Instructions
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Wash and dry potatoes then rub with olive oil and salt. Prick outside of potatoes with a fork.
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Place potatoes in the basket of the air fryer. Set temperature to 400 degrees and cook the potatoes for 30 minutes. Pierce with a fork to test. If the fork does not smoothly go through the potato, cook for an additional 5-8 minutes until done.
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Using oven mitts, remove potatoes from the air fryer. Slice open, pinch ends and fluff insides. Add toppings and serve.
Notes
- Cooked potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, return the potatoes to the air fryer for crispy skin and cook at 400 degrees until hot. You can also reheat in the microwave.
- Pierce potatoes before air frying. The holes help any steam release during the cooking process.
