This Crispy Air Fryer Baked Potato is fantastic! It has a crispy skin and a fluffy interior, making it the perfect side dish or snack. Plus, it’s super easy to make!
Seriously, who doesn’t love a potato that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside? I love topping mine with butter and cheese; it’s a treat any time of the day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are the go-to for a fluffy, baked potato. Their starchy texture is perfect for a soft inside and crispy skin. If russets aren’t available, Idaho potatoes can be a good substitute too!
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps achieve that crispy skin. If you’re looking for a different taste, grapeseed oil or avocado oil work well too. For a lower-calorie option, you might try using cooking spray.
Sea Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning, but you can use table salt or kosher salt if that’s what you have. You can also try other spices, like garlic powder or paprika, for a little extra kick!
Butter: This is the classic topping for baked potatoes. If you’re dairy-free, consider using vegan butter or olive oil for a rich finish. You could also skip the butter altogether if you prefer!
Optional Toppings: The great thing about baked potatoes is personalizing them! If you don’t have sour cream, Greek yogurt is a great alternative. And if you’re vegetarian, skip the bacon bits and go for more veggies!
How Do I Get My Potatoes Crispy in the Air Fryer?
Getting that perfect crispy skin is all about the right preparation! Here’s how you can ensure your potatoes come out deliciously crisp:
- Scrub and dry the potatoes well; moisture can prevent crisping.
- Pricking the potatoes with a fork is key to letting steam escape. This helps keep the skin from bursting and allows for even cooking.
- Coat evenly with oil; this helps create the crispy texture. Make sure every surface is covered!
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; give the potatoes room to breathe for even cooking.
- Turning the potatoes halfway through not only helps them cook uniformly but also crisps every side.
These tips should help you make perfectly crispy air fryer baked potatoes every time!
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Baked Potatoes:
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1-2 tablespoons butter (for serving)
Optional Toppings:
- sour cream
- chives
- shredded cheese
- bacon bits
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 35-40 minutes for cooking in the air fryer. In total, set aside about 50 minutes for the entire process, and you’ll have delicious, crispy baked potatoes ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
Start by scrubbing the russet potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt. Once they are clean, use a clean towel to pat them dry. This helps the skin get nice and crispy later on!
2. Season the Potatoes:
Using a fork, prick each potato several times. This allows steam to escape while they cook, which helps them cook evenly. Next, rub the potatoes with olive oil to coat them evenly. Sprinkle sea salt and black pepper all over to enhance the flavor.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Before cooking, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is important as it helps get that crispy texture you’re after.
4. Cook the Potatoes:
Carefully place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded. Cook them at 400°F for 35-40 minutes. Remember to turn the potatoes halfway through cooking to ensure they are crispy on all sides. They are done when they are tender inside and crispy outside—just pierce them with a fork to check!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the potatoes from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. To serve, slice the potatoes open lengthwise, add a pat of butter, and top them with any optional toppings you like, such as sour cream, chives, shredded cheese, or bacon bits. Enjoy your crispy air fryer baked potatoes!
Can I Use Olive Oil Substitutes?
Absolutely! If you don’t have olive oil, you can substitute it with vegetable oil, canola oil, or even melted coconut oil. Just ensure you use an oil with a high smoke point to maintain the crispiness.
How Can I Tell When the Potatoes Are Done?
The best indicator is tenderness! You can pierce the potatoes with a fork, and if it goes in easily without resistance, they are ready. The skin should also be crispy and golden-brown. You might also want to start checking them around the 30-minute mark!
Can I Reheat Leftover Baked Potatoes?
Yes, you can reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through and crispy again. If you’re using a microwave, heat them for 1-2 minutes, but you might lose some crispiness.
What Are Some Other Topping Ideas?
Get creative! Besides the classics like sour cream and cheese, you can try toppings like guacamole, chili, pulled pork, or even a drizzle of ranch dressing for an extra flavor boost!
