This crispy air fryer baked potato is a game changer! With a fluffy inside and crunchy skin, it’s the best side dish or snack. Plus, it cooks up faster than in the oven!
Honestly, I can’t resist loading mine with butter and cheese. It just feels like a cozy hug on a plate! You’ll want to keep making these again and again! 🥔❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are ideal for a baked potato due to their starchy texture, which creates a fluffy inside. If russets aren’t available, Yukon Golds can work too, though they’re a bit creamier.
Olive Oil: I love using olive oil for its flavor and health benefits. If you need a substitute, avocado oil or melted coconut oil are great alternatives that won’t compromise the dish.
Sea Salt: It enhances the potatoes’ natural flavor. If you prefer a lower sodium option, try using a salt substitute or omit it altogether for a smarter choice.
Optional Toppings: Butter is classic, but I often add sour cream, chives, or cheese. You can swap in Greek yogurt for a lighter touch or leave out the dairy for a vegan option.
How Can You Achieve the Crispiest Potato Skin?
The secret to crispy skins lies in properly prepping the potatoes. For best results, follow these steps:
- Scrub the potatoes well to remove dirt, and dry them thoroughly with a towel. Moisture can make the skin soggy.
- Pricking each potato with a fork releases steam during cooking, preventing them from bursting.
- Generously rub with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. This creates a crunchy exterior.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer; space helps air circulate and cook the skins evenly.
Check for doneness by inserting a fork; it should slide in easily. Enjoy your perfectly crispy baked potatoes!
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon 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 to prepare and around 35-45 minutes to cook, depending on the size of your potatoes. In total, you can enjoy your crispy baked potatoes in about 50-55 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer:
Start by turning your air fryer on and setting it to 400°F (200°C). It’s important to preheat it to get those potatoes nice and crispy!
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Next, wash the russet potatoes thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt. Once clean, pat them dry with a kitchen towel. This step helps the oil and seasonings stick better to the skin.
3. Pricking and Seasoning:
Grab a fork and prick each potato several times. This will allow steam to escape during cooking. Then, rub each potato with olive oil, making sure all sides are covered. Sprinkle them generously with sea salt and black pepper, ensuring the skin is well-coated.
4. Cooking in the Air Fryer:
Place the prepared potatoes in the air fryer basket, ensuring they have enough space and aren’t overcrowded. Set the timer for 35-45 minutes. Flip the potatoes halfway through cooking to ensure even crispiness. You can check if they are done by inserting a fork into the thickest part—the fork should slide in easily.
5. Serving Your Potatoes:
Once they are perfectly cooked, carefully remove the potatoes from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. Slice them open, add a pat of butter, and top them with any of your favorite extras like sour cream, chives, cheese, or bacon bits. Serve them hot and enjoy your delicious crispy air fryer baked potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are ideal for a crispy skin and fluffy interior, you can use other varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check for doneness regularly.
What Should I Do If My Potatoes Are Not Crispy?
If your potatoes aren’t as crispy as you’d like, try increasing the cooking time in 5-minute increments. Ensure your air fryer isn’t overcrowded, as this can trap steam. You can also give them a quick spray of olive oil halfway through cooking for an extra crisp!
How to Store Leftover Baked Potatoes
Store any leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through, which will help revive the crispy skin.
Can I Prepare the Potatoes Ahead of Time?
You can prep the potatoes by scrubbing, drying, and pricking them earlier in the day. Rub them with oil and season them just before cooking for the best texture. Alternatively, you can cook them ahead of time and reheat them in the air fryer for that crispy finish when you’re ready to serve!
