This Crispy Air Fryer Baked Potato is just the treat you need! It has a golden, crunchy skin and fluffy inside, making it the best of both worlds. Plus, it’s super easy to make!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a crispy potato? I like to pile on the toppings like butter, cheese, or sour cream. It’s the perfect side or a cozy meal all on its own. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish. Their starchy texture makes for a fluffy inside and crisp skin. If russets aren’t available, you can use Yukon Gold potatoes for a slightly creamier texture.
Olive Oil: This helps achieve a beautiful crispy skin when air-fried. If you prefer, avocado oil can be a great substitute because it has a high smoke point and a mild flavor.
Kosher Salt: This type of salt is preferred for its larger grains, making it easy to sprinkle evenly. If you have table salt, use about half the amount as it’s more potent. Sea salt is also a good alternative.
Butter: I like a good pat of butter on my baked potatoes. If you’re looking for alternatives, try vegan butter or olive oil for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Get Perfectly Crispy Air Fryer Baked Potatoes?
Achieving that ideal crispy skin is all about the preparation! Start with washing and patting dry the potatoes thoroughly. Moisture can prevent crispiness, so make sure they are well dried.
- Piercing the potatoes with a fork allows steam to escape. This helps cook the potatoes evenly.
- Coat them evenly with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. This not only adds flavor but helps the skin crisp up nicely.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket! Give each potato space for air to circulate so they cook evenly.
- Turning the potatoes halfway through cooking ensures they get crispy on all sides.
Follow these steps, and you’re on your way to enjoying deliciously crispy baked potatoes!
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For Serving:
- Butter (for serving)
- Optional toppings: sour cream, chives, shredded cheese, bacon bits
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 35-40 minutes for cooking in the air fryer. In just under an hour, you’ll have delicious, crispy baked potatoes ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Potatoes:
Start by washing the russet potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. Once they are clean, pat them dry with a clean towel. This step is important to ensure the skin gets nice and crispy.
2. Poking and Seasoning:
Poke each potato several times with a fork. This allows steam to escape during cooking, preventing them from bursting. Next, rub the potatoes with olive oil, making sure to coat them evenly. This helps create that perfect crispy skin! Now, sprinkle kosher salt and black pepper generously over the potatoes, covering all sides.
3. Cooking in the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Once preheated, carefully place the prepared potatoes in the air fryer basket, making sure they are in a single layer and not overcrowded. Cook the potatoes for about 35-40 minutes, turning them halfway through for even crispiness. You’ll know they are done when they feel tender inside and the skins are nicely crispy.
4. Serving Your Potatoes:
Once cooked, carefully remove the potatoes from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. Slice each potato open down the center and add a pat of butter to melt in. Now, customize your potatoes with your favorite toppings like sour cream, chives, shredded cheese, or bacon bits. Serve hot and enjoy your crispy baked potatoes!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are ideal for their fluffy texture, you can also use Yukon Gold or sweet potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the size and type of potato.
What If I Don’t Have an Air Fryer?
No problem! You can bake these potatoes in a traditional oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 45-55 minutes. Just remember to poke them and coat them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, just like in the air fryer recipe.
How Should I Store Leftover Baked Potatoes?
Store any leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave or the air fryer to regain their crispy skin. If using the microwave, be sure to cover them loosely with a paper towel to prevent them from drying out.
Can I Prepare These Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can wash, poke, and season the potatoes a day in advance. Store them in the fridge uncovered to keep the skin dry, which helps ensure they stay crispy when cooked. Just remember to bring them to room temperature before air frying for the best results!
