This crispy air fryer baked potato is golden outside and fluffy inside! It’s quick to make and perfect for a tasty side or even a meal.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a good baked potato? I like to load mine with butter, sour cream, and chives for a simple but tasty treat. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are ideal for baking due to their high starch content. If you can’t find russets, use Idaho or Yukon Gold potatoes; they’ll work too, but may yield a different texture.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps achieve that crispy skin. Canola or avocado oil are great substitutes if you prefer something neutral or want a higher smoke point.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for flavoring. You can experiment with other seasonings like paprika or onion powder if you’re looking to change things up.
Garlic Powder: Adds an extra kick if you’re a garlic lover! If you don’t have it, fresh minced garlic or garlic salt works well too. Just adjust the amount of regular salt accordingly.
Toppings: Butter and sour cream are classic, but feel free to get creative! Try Greek yogurt, cheese, or crispy bacon bits for variety.
How Do I Get My Baked Potatoes Extra Crispy?
The secret to achieving perfectly crispy air fryer baked potatoes lies in a few key steps. First, the hot air circulation in the air fryer is crucial. The oil also helps crisp the skin, so don’t skip adding it. Poking holes in the potatoes is vital too, as it lets steam escape and keeps them from bursting.
- Wash and dry the potatoes well to remove moisture.
- Poke holes with a fork to let steam out.
- Rub with olive oil and season generously.
- Air fry at 400°F for 35-40 minutes, turning halfway through for even cooking.
Let them rest a few minutes after cooking—this helps the insides stay fluffy while the skin remains crispy. Enjoy every bite!
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Baked Potato
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Butter, for serving
- Sour cream, chives, or other toppings of your choice (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 35-40 minutes to cook in the air fryer. You’ll need about 5 minutes for the air fryer to preheat, and then you can relax while the potatoes cook. In total, you’ll have delicious crispy baked potatoes ready in about 50 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
Start by washing the russet potatoes under cold water to get rid of any dirt. Make sure you scrub them well since you will be eating the skin. Once clean, dry them off with a clean towel. This helps the skin get nice and crispy!
2. Season the Potatoes:
Using a fork, poke each potato a few times. This allows steam to escape during cooking, preventing them from bursting. Now, rub each potato with olive oil, making sure they’re well coated. Sprinkle on the salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if you’re using it) and rub it all over each potato for great flavor.
3. Air Fry the Potatoes:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Once it’s hot, place the seasoned potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook them for about 35-40 minutes, turning them halfway through cooking. You’ll know they’re done when a fork goes through the skin easily and they feel soft inside!
4. Serve:
After cooking, carefully remove the potatoes from the air fryer and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This will allow the steam to settle. Now, slice each potato down the middle and add a pat of butter. Feel free to top them with sour cream, chives, shredded cheese, or whatever you like!
5. Enjoy:
Serve your crispy air fryer baked potatoes warm. They make a perfect side dish or even a main dish if you load them up with your favorite toppings. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Other Varieties of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are perfect for their fluffy interiors, you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check for doneness with a fork.
What If I Don’t Have an Air Fryer?
No worries! You can still make baked potatoes in a conventional oven. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake the seasoned potatoes on a baking sheet for about 45-55 minutes, turning halfway through. They’ll be just as delicious!
How to Store Leftover Baked Potatoes?
To store leftover baked potatoes, let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3-5 days. Reheat them in the air fryer or oven to restore some crispiness!
Can I Prepare the Potatoes in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the potatoes ahead! Wash and season them, then leave them wrapped in a damp paper towel in the fridge for a few hours before cooking. Just remember to adjust your cooking time if they’re cold from the fridge!
