These crispy air fryer baked potatoes are a game changer! They come out fluffy on the inside and perfectly crunchy on the outside, making them a satisfying side or snack.
Who knew making baked potatoes could be this fun and easy? I love loading mine with butter and cheese, but you can top them however you like. Enjoy your crispy creations! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These potatoes are perfect for baking because of their starchy texture. If you can’t find russet potatoes, Yukon Golds can work in a pinch, but they’ll be a bit creamier.
Olive Oil: I love using olive oil for its flavor and health benefits. You can substitute avocado oil if you want a higher smoke point or canola oil for a neutral taste.
Sea Salt: This brings out the potato’s natural flavor. If you’re watching your sodium, feel free to use less salt or a salt substitute.
Butter: While it’s optional, butter inside a baked potato adds richness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try vegan butter or a drizzle of olive oil.
Optional Toppings: Sour cream, chives, shredded cheese, and bacon bits are all delicious. You can swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for extra protein, or use dairy-free cheese if you’re vegan.
How Do I Get the Crispiest Skin on My Baked Potatoes?
Getting that perfect crispy skin is all about the technique. Here’s how to ensure you achieve it every time:
- **Scrub and Dry:** Cleaning the potatoes removes dirt and chemicals that affect texture. Pat them completely dry.
- **Poke Holes:** This allows steam to escape as they cook, preventing soggy skin. Use a fork to poke 5-6 holes per potato.
- **Oil and Seasoning:** Coating them with olive oil locks in moisture and creates that crispy crust. Don’t skip the salt and pepper—these enhance flavors significantly.
- **Single Layer Cooking:** Place potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer. This allows hot air to circulate evenly for a crispy finish.
- **Flip Halfway:** Flipping them allows all sides to get crispy, so don’t forget this essential step!
Follow these tips, and you’ll have crispy air fryer baked potatoes ready to enjoy every time!
Crispy Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 tablespoons butter (optional, for serving)
Optional Toppings:
- Sour cream
- Chives
- Shredded cheese
- Bacon bits
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 45 minutes total. You’ll need about 5 minutes to prep the potatoes and then 35-40 minutes for cooking. The result is perfectly crispy baked potatoes that are super easy and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This should take about 5 minutes, so you can get ready while it heats up.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Scrub your russet potatoes under cold running water to get rid of any dirt. After washing, dry them off with a clean towel. This will help the skin get crispy!
3. Poke and Season:
Using a fork, poke several holes in each potato. This allows steam to escape while they cook. Next, rub each potato with olive oil, covering all sides. Sprinkle sea salt and black pepper over each potato evenly to season them well.
4. Air Fry the Potatoes:
Place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are in a single layer and not touching each other for even cooking. Set your air fryer to cook for 35-40 minutes. Flip the potatoes halfway through cooking to get them crispy on all sides. They are done when the skin is crispy and a fork easily pierces through the center.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When the potatoes are done, carefully take them out of the air fryer and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Then, slice them open. If you’d like, add a tablespoon of butter inside each potato and fluff the insides with a fork. Top with your favorite toppings like sour cream, chives, shredded cheese, or bacon bits. Enjoy your crispy air fryer baked potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Yes! While russet potatoes are ideal for a crispy texture, you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the size and type of potato.
What Should I Do if My Potatoes Aren’t Crispy Enough?
If your potatoes aren’t as crispy as you’d like, try increasing the cooking time in 5-minute increments. Additional oil can also help achieve that desired crispiness, so consider brushing them with a bit more olive oil before cooking.
How to Store Leftover Baked Potatoes?
To store leftovers, let the baked potatoes cool completely and then place them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll last for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, pop them back into the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.
Can I Prepare the Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the potatoes by washing, poking holes, and seasoning them, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before air frying. Just bring them to room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking!
