These crispy air fryer baked potatoes are simply the best! With their crunchy skin and fluffy inside, they make a perfect side dish or quick snack. Just pop them in the air fryer for a golden finish!
Honestly, the smell of these potatoes will have everyone in the kitchen! I love adding a little butter and salt on top—so yummy! You won’t believe how easy they are to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are the go-to for baked potatoes due to their starchy texture. If you can’t find russet, Yukon Gold potatoes can work too, giving a slight difference in flavor and creaminess.
Olive Oil: I love using olive oil for its robust flavor, but any cooking oil like canola or avocado oil is a great substitute. You could also use melted butter if you’re in the mood for a richer taste!
Sea Salt: Sea salt adds a nice crunch. You can use kosher salt or table salt in a pinch. Just remember that kosher salt is less salty by volume, so adjust accordingly!
Butter: I always add butter for richness, but if you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try plant-based butter or even a drizzle of olive oil over the fluff. It works well!
Optional Toppings: The sky’s the limit! You can customize using whatever you have, such as Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, green onions instead of chives, or even fresh herbs for a refreshing twist.
How Do You Get That Crispy Skin on the Potatoes?
The secret to a crispy potato skin lies in the preparation! Here’s how to achieve that perfect crunch:
- Make sure to scrub the potatoes well and dry them completely. Moisture will prevent that crispy texture!
- Poking holes in the potatoes allows steam to escape, which helps create a crunchy outer layer.
- While coating them with oil, make sure every part of the skin is covered. This is key for achieving that golden, crispy finish.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer; give the potatoes room to cook evenly and get nice and crisp.
Lastly, flipping them halfway through ensures they cook evenly on both sides. Enjoy that crispy goodness!
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
- Butter (for serving)
Optional Toppings:
- Sour cream
- Chives
- Shredded cheese
- Bacon bits
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 35-40 minutes to cook in the air fryer. In total, you’ll need around 50 minutes, plus a few moments to let them rest before serving. Simple and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your potatoes cook evenly and become nice and crispy!
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Take the russet potatoes and scrub them under cold running water to clean off any dirt. Once clean, pat them dry with a towel. This step is important for getting that crispy skin!
3. Poke and Season the Potatoes:
Using a fork, poke several holes in each potato. This helps to prevent them from bursting while cooking. Now, rub each potato with olive oil to coat them thoroughly. Sprinkle the sea salt and black pepper evenly over each potato for flavor. Don’t be shy—this is what makes them delicious!
4. Air Fry the Potatoes:
Place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure there’s enough space between them for good airflow. Cook them for 35-40 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. They’re ready when the skin is crispy and a fork goes in easily.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, carefully remove the potatoes from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. Then, cut a slit in the top of each potato and gently squeeze the ends to fluff up the insides. Finally, add a pat of butter and your favorite optional toppings. Enjoy your crispy air fryer baked potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Yes! While russet potatoes are ideal for baking due to their higher starch content, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly, so check for doneness with a fork.
What If I Don’t Have an Air Fryer?
No problem! You can bake these potatoes in a conventional oven. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the inside is tender. Remember to poke holes in the potatoes as mentioned in the recipe!
How to Store Leftover Baked Potatoes?
Store leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave or reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore some crispiness.
Can I Prepare the Potatoes in Advance?
Definitely! You can wash and poke the potatoes ahead of time. Just keep them in a cool, dry place until you’re ready to cook. If the potatoes sit for longer than a day, you might want to rub them with a little olive oil and salt to keep the skins from drying out.
