This crispy air fryer baked potato is a simple treat that everyone loves! The outside gets golden and crunchy while the inside stays soft and fluffy.
I can’t resist piling on toppings like butter, sour cream, and chives. It’s like a mini potato party on my plate! 🥳 Making them in the air fryer is super quick, which is a win for busy nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are ideal for baking due to their starchy nature, yielding a fluffy interior. If they’re unavailable, Yukon Golds work well too, though they’re creamier.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps achieve a crispy texture. If you want to avoid oil, try using cooking spray or even butter, but make sure to adjust the flavor accordingly!
Sea Salt: Sea salt enhances flavor. However, if you’re watching your sodium, consider using a salt substitute or reducing the amount used.
Garlic Powder: This adds a nice zing, but feel free to skip it or use fresh garlic for a stronger flavor. You could also swap it for onion powder if that’s what you have on hand.
Butter and Sour Cream: These are classic toppings. For a healthier option, try Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and consider plant-based butter if you’re avoiding dairy.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Crispy Skin on My Baked Potatoes?
Getting that crispy skin is all about preparation and cooking temperature. First, it’s crucial to scrub and dry the potatoes well to remove any dirt and moisture. Moisture on the skin can prevent crispiness.
- Preheat your air fryer properly; a hot machine helps crisp the skin right away.
- Don’t skip the oil! It’s the key to that lovely crunch. Ensure each potato is evenly coated.
- Piercing the potatoes with a fork lets steam escape, which is vital for even cooking.
- Turn them halfway through cooking for consistent results while ensuring airflow.
Every air fryer is a bit different, so keep an eye on your potatoes. Adjust cooking time based on the size for the best outcome!
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Baked Potato?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
For Serving:
- Butter (for serving)
- Sour cream (optional)
- Chives or green onions (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and around 35-45 minutes to cook in the air fryer. In total, you’ll spend just under an hour to enjoy perfectly crispy baked potatoes — quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This will help the potatoes cook evenly and get that perfect crispy skin.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
While the air fryer is heating up, scrub the russet potatoes under cold running water to clean off any dirt. Once they are clean, pat them dry with a paper towel. This step is important to ensure the skin gets crispy!
3. Season the Potatoes:
Next, pierce each potato several times with a fork. This allows steam to escape while they cook. Now, rub each potato with olive oil until they are fully coated. Sprinkle them with sea salt, garlic powder (if you want an extra kick), and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
4. Air Fry the Potatoes:
Place the seasoned potatoes into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure there’s space between them for proper airflow. Cook for 35-45 minutes, turning them halfway through the cooking time. You’ll know they’re done when the skin is crispy and the insides are tender. Cooking times may vary a bit depending on the size of your potatoes.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, carefully remove the potatoes from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. Slice each potato open and add a nice pat of butter inside. Don’t forget, you can also add sour cream, and sprinkle with chives or green onions for a tasty garnish. Serve your crispy air fryer baked potatoes hot and enjoy!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are ideal for their fluffy interior and crispy skin, you can use Yukon Gold or even sweet potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly due to differences in size and moisture content.
What Should I Do If My Potatoes Are Not Crispy Enough?
If your potatoes aren’t as crispy as you’d like, try cooking them for an additional 5-10 minutes. Ensure the air fryer isn’t overcrowded to allow for proper air circulation. You can also give them a quick spray of olive oil mid-way through cooking for extra crispiness!
How to Store Leftover Baked Potatoes
Let the potatoes cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to revive their crispy texture.
Can I Prepare These Potatoes in Advance?
You can prep the potatoes ahead by washing and piercing them. Store them wrapped in plastic in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready to cook, simply follow the recipe instructions! This way, they’re ready to go when you are.
