This Crispy Air Fryer Baked Potato has a golden outside and fluffy inside. It’s like the best of both worlds without waiting forever for it to cook!
I love how easy it is to make—just add some salt and oil, pop it in the air fryer, and wait. Perfect with your favorite toppings for a yummy meal or snack!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are perfect for baking due to their starchy texture. If russets are unavailable, Idaho potatoes work well too. You can also use sweet potatoes for a healthier twist, but cooking times may vary.
Olive Oil: This gives the skin a lovely crispiness. If you run out, try using avocado oil or melted butter instead for a different flavor.
Kosher Salt: It’s great for seasoning because it’s coarser than table salt, making it easy to sprinkle. If you need a substitute, sea salt works just fine. Just remember to use a little less since it’s finer!
Garlic & Onion Powder: These add nice flavor but are optional. You could swap them for fresh minced garlic or onion if you prefer. Just sauté them lightly to kick up their taste, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
How Do You Get Crispy Potato Skin in the Air Fryer?
Achieving that crispy skin is all about preparation and timing! Here’s how to make sure your potatoes turn out perfectly crispy every time:
- Start by preheating the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for getting a crispy texture.
- Scrub and dry the potatoes well. Moisture on the outside can hinder crispiness.
- Pierce each potato with a fork to let steam escape—it helps avoid explosions!
- Coat them generously with olive oil and season well. The oil helps crisp up the skin while the salt enhances the flavor.
- Arrange potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
- Turn the potatoes halfway through cooking to crisp all sides. This step is easy to miss but very important!
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- Butter, for serving
- Sour cream, for serving (optional)
- Chives or green onions, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes to prep the potatoes and 35-40 minutes to cook them in the air fryer. So, plan for around 50 minutes in total. It’s a quick and delicious way to enjoy potatoes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This will help the potatoes cook evenly and get that nice crispy skin!
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Wash the russet potatoes thoroughly under running water to get rid of any dirt. Once they’re clean, dry them off with a paper towel. Then, use a fork to pierce each potato several times. This step is important as it lets the steam escape while they cook.
3. Season the Potatoes:
Rub each potato with olive oil to give them a nice coat. Next, sprinkle them with kosher salt, black pepper, and, if you like, garlic and onion powder. Make sure all sides are covered with these tasty seasonings!
4. Air Frying Time:
Carefully place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket. Make sure they’re not touching, as this will help them cook evenly. Set a timer for 35-40 minutes. Don’t forget to turn them halfway through cooking so they get crispy on all sides!
5. Finishing Touches:
Once they’re cooked and have a crispy skin, use tongs to take the potatoes out—be careful, they’ll be hot! Let them sit for a few minutes to cool slightly. Then, cut a slit down the center of each potato and fluff up the insides with a fork. Add a pat of butter for that creamy goodness!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Top your baked potatoes with sour cream if you wish, and sprinkle with chopped chives or green onions for some freshness. Serve them hot and enjoy your crispy air fryer baked potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use other types of potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes! Just note that cooking times may vary slightly, so check for doneness a little earlier to avoid overcooking.
What If I Don’t Have an Air Fryer?
No problem! You can bake these potatoes in a conventional oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 45-60 minutes, turning them halfway through. Just wrap them in foil if you want a softer skin!
How Should I Store Leftover Baked Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave them until heated through, or pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to re-crisp the skin!
Can I Prep the Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can scrub and pierce the potatoes up to a day in advance. Store them in the fridge wrapped in a damp paper towel to keep them fresh. Just bring them to room temperature before air frying for best results.
