Your new favorite side dish is here: crispy air fryer baked potatoes! These potatoes get wonderfully crispy on the outside while remaining fluffy and tender on the inside.
Plus, they are super easy to make! Just season them, pop them in the air fryer, and let the magic happen. I love topping mine with butter or cheese—it never gets old!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are the best potatoes for a crispy skin and fluffy interior. If you can’t find russets, you can use Idaho potatoes or any starchy potato for similar results.
Olive Oil: This helps in getting that golden, crispy texture. If you prefer, avocado oil or canola oil can work well too, especially if you’re looking for a higher smoke point.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for flavor! If you’re watching your salt intake, try using a flavored seasoning blend. A sprinkle of smoked paprika can also add a nice twist.
Garlic Powder: This is optional but adds a lovely flavor. If you don’t have it, you could use fresh minced garlic or even onion powder for a different taste.
How Do You Get Crispy Skin on Baked Potatoes?
Getting that crispy skin is all about the preparation! Start by washing and drying the potatoes well. Prick them with a fork to release steam during cooking, ensuring they don’t burst in the air fryer. Coating them in olive oil is crucial—for both flavor and that desired crunch!
- Be sure to coat every part of the potato with olive oil for even cooking.
- Sprinkling salt and pepper helps in enhancing the skin’s flavor, so rub it in well.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Give each potato some space for optimal air circulation.
- Remember to flip them halfway through cooking for uniform crispiness.
Crispy Air Fryer Baked Potato
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
For Serving:
- Butter (for serving)
- Sour cream, chives, or other toppings (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes for preparation and around 40 minutes for cooking. So, in total, you’ll spend about 50 minutes to enjoy these delicious crispy air fryer baked potatoes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
Start by washing the russet potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. After washing, pat them dry with a clean towel. This ensures they’re clean and ready for cooking!
2. Prick and Season:
Next, use a fork to prick each potato several times. This little step helps steam escape during cooking, so your potatoes don’t explode! Then, coat each potato with olive oil, making sure they are evenly coated for that crispy skin. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if you’re using it) over the potatoes and rub it in to enhance the flavor.
3. Air Fry the Potatoes:
Now, it’s time to preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Once it’s ready, place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket without overcrowding them. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might need to cook them in batches. Cook the potatoes for about 35-40 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even crispiness. You’ll know they’re done when they are fork-tender.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
When the baking time is up, carefully remove the potatoes from the air fryer and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Cut each potato open lengthwise and add a pat of butter inside, letting it melt. Serve the hot baked potatoes with your choice of toppings like sour cream, chives, cheese, or crispy bacon bits. Enjoy your crispy air fryer baked potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are ideal for their fluffy interior and crispy skin, you can use other varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so check for doneness with a fork.
What if I Don’t Have an Air Fryer?
If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake these potatoes in a conventional oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 45-60 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Just follow the same preparation steps, coating them with oil and seasonings before placing them in the oven.
How to Store Leftover Baked Potatoes?
Store any leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to bring back their crispiness!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the potatoes ahead of time by washing and seasoning them but store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just preheat the air fryer and follow the cooking instructions. This way, they’ll be ready to enjoy with minimal hassle!
