There’s something undeniably comforting about a perfectly cooked baked potato, and this air fryer version delivers just that. Crispy, golden skin gives way to a fluffy, tender interior, creating a delightful contrast in every bite. With just 5 minutes of prep and 45 minutes of hands-off cooking, it’s a fuss-free way to enjoy a classic favorite. The air fryer locks in moisture while crisping the exterior, ensuring a texture that’s simply irresistible.
Seasoned simply with olive oil, salt, and pepper, this potato becomes a blank canvas for your favorite toppings. Whether you load it with melted cheese, tangy sour cream, or fresh chives, the result is a satisfying meal or side dish. The air fryer’s efficiency means you’ll have a restaurant-quality baked potato in under an hour, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
What You’ll Need?
- 2 medium russet potatoes (scrubbed clean and dried)
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil (or avocado oil as a substitute)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (or kosher salt for a similar texture)
How to Make Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Use a fork to poke a few holes in each potato to allow steam to escape during cooking.
- Place the potatoes on a plate, rub them evenly with olive oil, and sprinkle liberally with sea salt all over.
- Transfer the potatoes to the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they’re not touching.
- Air fry for 40 to 60 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the potatoes are fork-tender and the skin is crisp and golden.
- Carefully remove the potatoes from the air fryer, slice them open, fluff the insides with a fork, and serve with your favorite toppings.
Delicious Topping Ideas to Elevate Your Baked Potato
Transform your air fryer baked potato into a gourmet treat with these topping ideas! Try classic options like sour cream, chives, and shredded cheddar cheese, or get creative with crispy bacon bits, sautéed mushrooms, or a dollop of guacamole. For a healthier twist, add steamed broccoli, Greek yogurt, or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast. The possibilities are endless!
How to Store and Reheat Leftover Baked Potatoes
Store leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispy skin and fluffy interior. Alternatively, microwave them for 1-2 minutes for a quick fix, though the skin may lose some crispiness.
Time-Saving Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Potatoes
Short on time? Cut your potatoes into halves or quarters before air frying to reduce cooking time by 10-15 minutes. You can also preheat your air fryer while prepping the potatoes to save a few extra minutes. For even faster results, use smaller potatoes, which cook more quickly than larger ones.
Common Questions About Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
Can I use other types of potatoes? Absolutely! While russet potatoes are ideal for their fluffy texture, you can also use Yukon Gold or sweet potatoes for a different flavor and texture. Do I need to flip the potatoes? It’s not necessary, but flipping them halfway through can ensure even cooking and crispiness on all sides.
Air Fryer Baked Potato
Equipment
- air fryer
Ingredients
- 2 medium russet potatoes
- Extra-virgin olive oil
- Sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
- Use a fork to poke a few holes in the potatoes. Place on a plate. Rub with olive oil and sprinkle liberally with sea salt all over.
- Transfer to the air fryer basket and air fry for 40 to 60 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the skin is crisp.
- Slice open each potato, fluff the insides, and serve with desired toppings.