This crispy air fryer baked potato is a fantastic way to get that perfect crunch with a fluffy inside! It’s super easy and quicker than using a regular oven.
Once I tried these, I couldn’t go back! Just pop them in the air fryer, season, and in no time, you have a tasty side dish. Who knew potatoes could be this fun? 🥔✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These potatoes are the best choice for a fluffy interior and crispy skin. If you can’t find russets, you could use other starchy potatoes, like Idaho or Yukon Gold, but the texture may vary slightly.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds flavor and helps in achieving that crispy skin. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider avocado oil for a high smoke point or melted butter for a richer taste.
Sea Salt: Sea salt enhances the flavor wonderfully. If you’re on a low-sodium diet, you can reduce the salt or swap it with a salt-free seasoning blend to keep it tasty.
Butter: A classic addition for richness! You could use margarine or a dairy-free butter substitute for a non-dairy option. Greek yogurt is also a healthier topping alternative.
How Do I Get the Crispiest Skin on My Potatoes?
Achieving crispy skin on your air fryer baked potatoes is all about preparation and cooking technique. Follow these essential steps to get it just right:
- Start by washing and properly drying your potatoes. Moisture on the skin can prevent crispiness.
- Don’t skip pricking the potatoes with a fork! This allows steam to escape and keeps them from bursting during cooking.
- The olive oil rub is key. Make sure each potato is well-coated to help crisp up the skin.
- Keep the potato spacing in the air fryer loose. Air circulation is crucial for even cooking and crisping.
- Turn the potatoes halfway through cooking; this promotes even browning and crispy texture on all sides.
By paying attention to these steps, you’ll have perfect crispy baked potatoes every time!
Crispy Air Fryer Baked Potato
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (or coarse salt)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Butter, for serving
- Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, bacon bits
How Much Time Will You Need?
This crispy air fryer baked potato recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and 35-45 minutes to cook. In just under an hour, you can enjoy deliciously crispy potatoes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
Begin by washing and scrubbing the russet potatoes under cold water to remove dirt. After rinsing, pat them dry with a paper towel. This will keep the skin nice and crisp during cooking.
2. Season Them Up:
Using a fork, prick each potato several times. This little trick allows steam to escape while they’re cooking and helps prevent any bursting! Next, rub the potatoes with olive oil, ensuring they are fully coated for that crispy skin. Then, sprinkle sea salt and freshly ground black pepper all around to season them well.
3. Air Fry the Potatoes:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Once it’s hot and ready, place the prepared potatoes in the air fryer basket. Make sure they’re not touching so they cook evenly. Air fry them for about 35-45 minutes. Remember to turn them halfway through cooking for the best results. You’ll know they’re done when a fork easily pierces through the flesh, and the skin looks beautifully crispy!
4. Serve and Enjoy!
After the potatoes are cooked, carefully take them out of the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Cut a slit down the center of each potato and fluff up the insides with a fork. Add a generous pat of butter on top and feel free to load them up with your favorite toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, or bacon bits. Dig in and enjoy your delicious crispy air fryer baked potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Yes, you can use other types of potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, but keep in mind that they might not get as crispy as russet potatoes. If using smaller potatoes, reduce the cooking time as they may cook faster.
How Can I Make These Potatoes Healthier?
For a lighter option, you can skip the olive oil and sprinkle the potatoes with spices like garlic powder, paprika, or herbs instead. Just be sure to add enough seasoning to enhance the flavor!
How to Store Leftover Baked Potatoes?
Store any leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain that crispy texture.
Can I Make These Without an Air Fryer?
Absolutely! You can bake them in a conventional oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 45-60 minutes. Just follow the same prep steps and make sure to turn them halfway through for even cooking.
