Air Fryer Baked Potato

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When I first tried making baked potatoes in my air fryer, I honestly didn’t expect much. I thought nothing could match the fluffy interior and crispy skin of a traditional oven-baked potato. But after one bite of my perfectly golden Air Fryer Baked Potato, I was hooked. The skin was delightfully crisp with just the right hint of salt, and the inside was pillowy and soft, just begging for a dollop of sour cream.

I’ve always loved how a baked potato can go from a simple side dish to the star of the plate, depending on how you top it. That versatility makes it one of my favorite comfort foods to prepare, especially when I’m short on time. The air fryer not only saves precious minutes, it also frees up the oven for other dishes.

What I enjoy most about this method is how foolproof it is. You don’t have to worry about uneven cooking or soggy skin. Every single time, I get potatoes that are evenly cooked with a perfect crunch on the outside. If you’ve never tried baking potatoes in an air fryer, let me walk you through it—you won’t go back to your old ways.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Baked Potato

This Air Fryer Baked Potato is quick, reliable, and incredibly easy to make. It gives you everything you love about a baked potato—crispy skin, fluffy interior—without heating up your entire kitchen. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even as the base for a loaded potato bar when you’re entertaining. Plus, it’s healthier because you can use less oil and still achieve that irresistible texture.

Ingredients

For this Air Fryer Baked Potato, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Russet potatoes are ideal here because of their starchy texture, which fluffs up beautifully inside while the skin crisps to perfection. Olive oil is essential to help the skin become that golden, salty crust we all crave. A generous sprinkle of coarse salt elevates both flavor and texture, giving that signature bite when you first cut through. If you like, you can also have butter, sour cream, chives, or shredded cheese ready for topping.

How to Make Air Fryer Baked Potato

Step 1: Choose and Prep Your Potatoes

Pick medium-sized Russet potatoes, scrub them clean under running water, and pat them dry thoroughly. Pierce each potato a few times with a fork to allow steam to escape while cooking.

Step 2: Oil and Season

Rub each potato with a light coating of olive oil, making sure the entire skin is glistening. Then sprinkle coarse salt all around for that irresistible salty crust.

Step 3: Air Fry

Place the potatoes in the basket of your air fryer, making sure they’re not overcrowded. Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook for 35-45 minutes, turning them halfway through. They’re done when a fork slides easily into the center.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the potatoes carefully (they’ll be hot!), cut a slit down the center, fluff the insides with a fork, and add your favorite toppings. Serve immediately for the best experience.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you’re looking to switch things up, try using sweet potatoes instead of russets for a naturally sweeter, creamy interior. Yukon gold potatoes can also be used, offering a slightly buttery flavor. If olive oil isn’t your preference, melted butter or even avocado oil works beautifully on the skin. For seasoning, feel free to experiment—garlic powder, paprika, or even a sprinkle of parmesan before air frying gives a unique twist.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

These air fryer baked potatoes are perfect as a side for grilled chicken, steak, or fish. You can also turn them into a main course by loading them with chili, shredded BBQ chicken, or broccoli and cheddar. For a light lunch, I love pairing one with a fresh salad on the side.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, wrap cooled baked potatoes in foil and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back into the air fryer at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, which helps restore the crispiness. Alternatively, you can microwave them for a quicker option, though the skin won’t be as crisp.

FAQs

How long does it take to cook an Air Fryer Baked Potato?

It takes about 35-45 minutes at 400°F, depending on the size of the potato.

Can I cook more than one Air Fryer Baked Potato at a time?

Yes, as long as your air fryer basket has enough space for air to circulate around each potato.

Do I need to wrap the Air Fryer Baked Potato in foil?

No, wrapping in foil prevents the skin from getting crispy. Just place them directly in the basket.

How can I tell when my Air Fryer Baked Potato is done?

When a fork easily pierces the center without resistance, your potato is perfectly cooked.

Can I make an Air Fryer Baked Potato ahead of time?

Absolutely. Cook and store them in the fridge, then reheat when ready to serve.

Related Recipes You’ll Like

If you loved this Air Fryer Baked Potato, you’ll definitely want to try my Cheesy Ranch Potatoes for another comforting potato dish that’s loaded with flavor. You might also enjoy the Greek Lemon Potatoes if you’re looking for something zesty and bright. And don’t miss my Roasted Zucchini and Squash for a fresh and colorful vegetable side.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Don’t forget to pin this Air Fryer Baked Potato recipe on your Pinterest board so you can come back to it anytime. Share it with your friends and family on Facebook, Instagram, or even through a quick text to inspire their next dinner. Your shares mean the world to me and help others discover how easy and delicious air fryer cooking can be!

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