This Crispy Air Fryer Baked Potato is all about that perfect crunch on the outside and fluffy goodness on the inside. Just a little oil and salt make it irresistible!
You’ll love how quick it is! I often whip it up as a side dish when I want something warm and tasty. Pair it with butter or your favorite toppings for a satisfying treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are ideal for baking due to their starchy texture. If you can’t find russet potatoes, try using Yukon Gold. They have a slightly creamier texture but will still yield delicious results.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps make the skin crispy. If you’re looking for a different flavor, avocado oil works well too. Just make sure to use an oil with a high smoking point.
Sea Salt: Sea salt enhances the flavor. If you prefer something finer, kosher salt or table salt can also be used, but remember to adjust the amount to taste!
Butter: While optional, it adds richness. You could use olive oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free option, or even Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy Potatoes in the Air Fryer?
Getting that perfect crisp on your baked potatoes in the air fryer is all about prep and timing. Start by properly scrubbing and drying the potatoes to remove any dirt. After that, don’t skip piercing them with a fork—this allows steam to escape and prevents them from bursting.
- Preheat your air fryer to ensure even cooking.
- Rub the oil and seasoning evenly over the potatoes for the best crisp.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket, as this can trap steam and prevent crispiness.
- Always check for doneness after 35 minutes, and remember, you can add more time if needed in small increments.
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Butter, for serving (optional)
- Sour cream, for serving (optional)
- Chives or green onions, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 35-40 minutes for cooking. So you’re looking at a total of about 50 minutes. It’s a simple process that leads to delicious, crispy baked potatoes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Potatoes:
Start by scrubbing the russet potatoes under cold running water to remove any dirt. Once they’re clean, pat them dry with a towel. This helps the oil stick better!
2. Pierce the Potatoes:
Using a fork, poke several holes in each potato. This is important because it allows steam to escape during cooking, preventing the potatoes from bursting.
3. Season the Potatoes:
In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to rub this mixture evenly over the surface of each potato, ensuring they’re well-coated for extra flavor.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for getting the skins super crispy!
5. Air Fry the Potatoes:
Carefully place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not overcrowded. Cook them for about 35-40 minutes. Make sure to turn them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. You’ll know they’re ready when the skins are crispy and a fork can easily pierce the flesh.
6. Check for Doneness:
After 35 minutes, check how tender the potatoes are by poking them with a fork. If they need a little more time, just continue to cook them in 5-minute increments until they’re perfect.
7. Serve:
Once your potatoes are done cooking, remove them from the air fryer. Let them sit for a few minutes until they’re cool enough to handle. Slice them open, add a pat of butter, and top with sour cream and chopped chives or green onions if you like. Enjoy your crispy baked potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Yes! While russet potatoes are ideal for that fluffy interior, you can use other types like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly based on the size and type of potato.
What Should I Do If My Potatoes Are Not Crispy Enough?
If your potatoes aren’t as crispy as you’d like, you can try increasing the cooking time by a few minutes or checking if they need more olive oil rub. Alternatively, you can finish them off by broiling them in your oven for a couple of minutes after air frying.
How to Store Leftover Baked Potatoes?
Store any leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes until heated through, which will help keep the skin crispy!
Can I Make These Potatoes in the Oven Instead?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and follow the same instructions for seasoning and prep. Bake them on a baking sheet for about 45-60 minutes, turning halfway, until crispy and tender.
