These crispy air fryer baked potatoes are golden on the outside and fluffy on the inside. They’re super easy to make and perfect for a quick side dish!
Honestly, I can’t resist topping them with butter and a sprinkle of salt. It’s like a potato party on my plate! 🎉 I love how the air fryer makes them crispy without all the fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are the best choice for this recipe due to their starchy texture, which makes the insides fluffy. If russets aren’t available, you can use Yukon Golds, but keep in mind they have a creamier texture.
Olive Oil: I love using olive oil for its rich flavor, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, avocado oil works great too. Canola oil is another alternative if you want something more neutral.
Salt & Black Pepper: Seasoning these potatoes well is crucial. If you have garlic powder, it’s a nice addition for enhancing flavor too. You can also try sea salt for a different taste.
Butter: Butter adds a lovely richness, but feel free to switch it out with a plant-based butter or some olive oil if you want a dairy-free version!
How Do I Get the Perfect Crispy Skin on My Baked Potatoes?
Getting that perfect crispy skin is all about the preparation and cooking method. The process involves a few key steps:
- Start by washing and scrubbing the potatoes thoroughly. This helps get any dirt off the skin that enhances the final texture.
- Poking holes is essential! It allows steam to escape safely while cooking, preventing sogginess.
- Coat the potatoes well with olive oil. This is what helps achieve that gorgeous crispy outer layer.
- Ensure your air fryer is at the right temperature and preheated. This helps the potatoes cook evenly right from the start.
- Turning the potatoes halfway through cooking is also crucial. It promotes even cooking and crispiness on all sides.
By following these tips, you’ll enjoy crispy, delicious baked potatoes every time! Happy cooking!
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Baked Potato
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Butter, for serving
- Optional toppings: sour cream, chives, shredded cheese, bacon bits
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prepare and 35-40 minutes to cook, so you’ll be enjoying your crispy baked potatoes in around 45 minutes total. It’s an easy way to get that crispy skin and fluffy inside!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This helps the potatoes cook evenly right from the beginning, making them nice and crispy.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Give each potato a good wash and scrub under running water to remove any dirt. After washing, pat them dry with a towel so they’re not wet. This helps the olive oil stick better!
3. Poking and Seasoning:
Using a fork, poke several holes all over each potato. This allows steam to escape during cooking. Next, rub olive oil over each potato so they’re nicely coated, then sprinkle the salt and black pepper all over them to add flavor.
4. Air Fry the Potatoes:
Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are in a single layer, not touching each other for the best results. Cook them for about 35-40 minutes. Don’t forget to turn them halfway through the cooking time for even crispiness!
5. Check for Doneness:
When the cooking time is up, check if the potatoes are done by piercing them with a fork. They should feel tender inside. If they’re not quite there, cook them for a few more minutes.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully take the potatoes out of the air fryer and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Slice them open lengthwise, add a pat of butter, and top with your choice of optional toppings like sour cream, chives, shredded cheese, or bacon bits. Dig in and enjoy your crispy air fryer baked potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are ideal for their starchy texture, you can also use Yukon gold or even sweet potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary; check for doneness a bit earlier if using smaller or different types of potatoes.
What If I Don’t Have Olive Oil?
No problem! You can substitute with any cooking oil you have on hand, such as canola oil, vegetable oil, or even melted coconut oil. The important thing is to keep that oil on the skin to help achieve that crispy texture!
Can I Make These Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Cook the potatoes and let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back into the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
How Can I Tell When the Potatoes Are Done?
The best way to check for doneness is to pierce a potato with a fork; it should glide in easily. If you find they’re still firm in the center, give them a few more minutes in the air fryer. Remember, every air fryer may have slightly different timings!
