This crispy air fryer baked potato is a treat! With a wonderfully crunchy skin and soft, fluffy inside, it’s perfect for any meal or snack. And guess what? It cooks way faster than in the oven!
You can top it any way you like – butter, cheese, or even salsa! I love making these for a quick dinner side; they’re always a hit. Plus, they make the kitchen smell amazing! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These potatoes are the star of the dish! Their starchy nature gives a fluffy interior and crispy skin. If you can’t find russets, Yukon Golds are a good alternative for a creamier texture.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps create the crispy skin. If you need a substitute, canola oil or avocado oil will also work well. I personally love the flavor that olive oil brings, though.
Garlic Powder: While optional, garlic powder adds a nice depth of flavor. If you prefer fresh, you can sprinkle some minced garlic on top instead after baking. I love that extra garlicky kick!
Toppings: Classic toppings like sour cream, cheese, and chives are fantastic. You can also try Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier twist or mix in some crispy bacon bits for added flavor.
How Do I Get Perfectly Crispy Skin on My Potatoes?
Achieving crispy skin is all about the right preparation and cooking method. Poking holes is essential for letting steam escape, so don’t skip that step! Here’s how you can get the best results:
- Thoroughly wash and dry your potatoes to remove dirt and moisture.
- Poke several holes with a fork – 5 to 10 per potato should do the trick! This helps cook the inside evenly.
- Coat well with olive oil and seasoning so the skin becomes crispy and flavorful. Don’t forget about the garlic powder!
- Cook at 400°F (200°C) in the air fryer, turning halfway through. This ensures all sides get the same level of crispiness.
- Check for doneness; a fork should easily pierce the skin when they are done.
With these tips, your baked potatoes will come out crispy and delicious every time!
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 salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder (optional)
For Serving:
- Butter (for serving)
- Sour cream, cheese, chives, or desired toppings (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 35-40 minutes for cooking, bringing the total time to around 50 minutes. Your crispy air fryer baked potatoes will be ready to serve and enjoy in less than an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparation:
Start by washing the russet potatoes thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt. This step is important for clean and delicious potatoes! After washing, pat them dry with a kitchen towel.
2. Poke Holes:
Use a fork to poke several holes in each potato. This allows steam to escape while they’re cooking, preventing any potential bursting. Poking holes is a simple but necessary step!
3. Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder if you’re using it. Now rub this mixture all over each potato, making sure they are evenly coated. This will give your potatoes that delicious flavor you’re going to love!
4. Air Frying:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Once it’s hot, place the potatoes in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Cook them for about 35-40 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure even cooking. You’ll know they’re done when a fork easily pierces the skin and the inside is tender.
5. Serving:
Once cooked, carefully remove the potatoes from the air fryer. Cut them open to let out a bit of steam and add a pat of butter to each. Watch it melt into that warm, fluffy potato! Serve with your choice of toppings like sour cream, cheese, chives, or any other favorites you like.
6. Enjoy:
Dig in and enjoy your crispy air fryer baked potatoes! They’re perfect as a tasty side dish or a light meal all on their own.
Can I Use Sweet Potatoes Instead of Russet Potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes can be a nutritious alternative. Just keep in mind they may require less cooking time—start checking for doneness around 25-30 minutes to ensure they don’t overcook.
Can I Prepare These Potatoes in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the potatoes in advance! After washing and seasoning them, store them in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before cooking for the best results.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Baked Potatoes?
Store any leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This will help retain their crispy texture!
Can I Use Different Spices or Seasonings?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your seasonings. Try adding paprika, chili powder, or even your favorite dry herb blend. Just remember to balance the amount of salt to maintain flavor!
