Air Fryer Baked Potato

Name: Air Fryer Baked Potato Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 3 to 4 russet potatoes, (depending on how many will fit in your air fryer); 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; Sea salt, (to taste)

This air fryer potato recipe results in delicious potatoes that come out with a perfect skin and a soft texture inside.

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Table of Contents

Air Fryer Baked Potatoes Ingredients
Air Fryer Baked Potatoes Substitutions And Additions
What Type of Potato Should You Use?
How To Make Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
Troubleshooting Tips for This Air Fryer Baked Potato Recipe
Serving An Air Fry Baked Potato
When To Serve Air Fryer Baked Potato
Storing Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
You Will Love Baked Potatoes In Air Fryer
Baked Potato In Air Fryer FAQs
Five Star Rating Recipes You’ll Love
JUMP TO RECIPE
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There’s no need to preheat your oven for this easy air fryer baked potato recipe. You’ll have perfectly cooked and delicious potatoes without all the fuss. The result is perfectly baked potatoes with crispy skin and a fluffy interior, making this your go-to method for making this classic side dish.

a close ups hot of a Air Fryer Baked Potato

Air Fryer Baked Potatoes Ingredients

Air Fryer Baked Potato raw ingredients that are labeled

Baked potatoes have been a staple in American cuisine for decades. But have you ever tried them in an air fryer? It’s the best way to quickly make this favorite side dish!

The crisp exterior perfectly complements the fluffy insides. One bite and you will be hooked. You only need simple ingredients to make them, and the customization possibilities are endless!

You’ll need:

3 to 4 russet potatoes (depending on how many will fit in your air fryer)
1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
Sea salt, to taste

Air Fryer Baked Potatoes Substitutions And Additions

Of course, our specific instructions will help you make perfect baked potatoes in the air fryer. But the best part is the endless flavor combonations and customizations everyone can make once their baked potato is made!

SEASONING: You can also rub black pepper onto the skin. I like to use sea salt and coarse black pepper. Try white pepper for a new taste.

Try using seasoned salts like garlic salt, onion salt, kosher salt, or even a pinch of smoked sea salt to elevate the seasoning profile of your potato.

Similarly, consider adding a sprinkle of your favorite spice blend for an extra layer of flavor.

OLIVE OIL: Instead of olive oil, you can use melted coconut oil, canola oil, grapeseed oil, or avocado oil for a unique flavor profile while maintaining that lovely crispy skin.

You’ll just want to be sure to use an oil that has a high smoke point so that it doesn’t burn while cooking.

You could also use your favorite oil cooking spray for ease of application.

SOUR CREAM: Top your baked potato with sour cream, or if you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt.

You could also add French onion dip for even more flavor.

CHEDDAR CHEESE: Get creative and serve the potato with cheddar, Monterey Jack, pepper jack for a spicy kick, or even smoked cheese for a smoky twist.

BACON BITS: Add bacon bits on top of the potato, or crispy fried onions.

These will add a crunch and a mild onion flavor to your loaded baked potato.

CHIVES: Chives or finely chopped green onions or scallions make excellent toppings for potatoes.

BUTTER: A pat of butter is perhaps one of the most classic toppings. Experiment with flavored butter or spreads like garlic butter, herb-infused butter, or even a vegan butter substitute for a unique and tasty twist on your baked potato.

CHILI: For a hearty meal, consider topping your air fryer baked potato with homemade chili.

What Type of Potato Should You Use?

The best potatoes for baking are typically those that are high in starch and have a fluffy texture when cooked.

The most commonly recommended variety is the Russet potato. They have the ideal texture for a classic baked potato due to their high starch content and low moisture levels.

Russets are large, with a thicker skin that becomes wonderfully crispy when baked. Their flesh is fluffy and light, making them perfect for absorbing butter, sour cream, and other toppings.

Other varieties that can be used for baking include Yukon Gold and sweet potatoes, although they offer different textures and flavors.

We used large potatoes, but you can adjust your cooking time to make smaller potatoes as well. You can make baby potatoes or a small potato for one person.

The size of the potato will impact your cooking time, so keep a close eye on your potatoes as they are in the air fryer. Larger potatoes will take more time and small potatoes will take less.

After trying this cooking method, you’ll agree this is a delicious way to make the best baked potato with perfectly crispy skin.

How To Make Air Fryer Baked Potatoes

Making baked potatoes in the air fryer is so quick and such an easy way to get this classic side dish on the table fast. You don’t have to wait for the oven to preheat.

Just prick the washed potatoes with a fork, rub them with the oil of your choice, add some salt and pepper, and cook until the potatoes are tender.

OUR RECIPE DEVELOPER SAYS

The air fryer will cook a potato with a delicious, crispy skin, maybe even better than in the oven.

The oil on the skin aids in a crispier exterior, but you do not have to use oil on the skin.

You can follow the recipe as is and omit the oil and salt.

Note that the oil helps hold the salt on the skin, so if you skip the oil, you’ll need to skip the salt too.

STEP ONE: Clean the potatoes well by scrubbing them under running water. Pat dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.

STEP TWO: Poke holes in the potatoes all over with a fork. You could also very carefully use a sharp knife to poke holes.

STEP THREE: Brush or rub oil over the entire outside of the potatoes and sprinkle with sea salt as liberally as you’d like.

oil brushed over the entire potatoes and sprinkle salt

STEP FOUR: Place the prepared potatoes in a single layer in the basket of the air fryer.

There should be a bit of room between the potatoes, do not overcrowd them.

PRO TIP:

You do not need to line the air fryer basket. Do not place potatoes on a plate or anything in the basket.

You also do not need to use aluminum foil for this recipe.

Allowing the hot air to swirl up and around all sides of the potato will produce the best results.

STEP FIVE: Cook at 400°F for 30-40 minutes, then turn and continue cooking for ten to 15 minutes more.

Be sure to check them at the 30 minute mark for doneness, then proceed with cooking more or turning to the other side.

PRO TIP:

Test that the potato is done by gently pressing a fork into it. If the fork goes into the potato easily, the potato is done.

If you feel resistance in the center of the potato, go ahead and cook for five minutes longer.

STEP SIX: The cook time will vary slightly depending on the size of your potatoes, the air fryer model, and the number of potatoes in the air fryer basket.

Troubleshooting Tips for This Air Fryer Baked Potato Recipe

Uneven Cooking

Solution: If the potatoes are not cooking evenly, ensure they are similar in size and properly spaced in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can prevent even cooking.

Potatoes Not Crispy

Solution: To achieve a crispy skin, ensure the potatoes are completely dry after washing. Also, a light coating of oil helps crisp the skin.

Potatoes Too Dry

Solution: If the potatoes turn out too dry, try reducing the cooking time or temperature.

Undercooked Potatoes

Solution: If the potatoes are hard in the middle, they need more cooking time. Cooking times can vary depending on the size of the potatoes and the air fryer model. Use a fork to test doneness.

Overcooked Potatoes

Solution: If the potatoes are overcooked and too soft, reduce the cooking time or temperature. Using a timer can help avoid overcooking.

Seasoning Not Sticking

Solution: If you’re having trouble getting seasoning to stick, the oil applied before cooking can help. The oil helps the salt and other seasonings adhere to the skin.

Skin Not Crisping

Solution: If the skin isn’t crisping as desired, try increasing the cooking temperature for the last few minutes or cook longer at the same temperature, checking frequently to avoid burning.

Remember, each air fryer model may cook differently, so it may take a few tries to find the perfect cooking time and temperature for your specific device.

Serving An Air Fry Baked Potato

These air fryer baked potatoes are best served with all of your favorite toppings.

Try sour cream, cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and green onions to take this delicious side dish to the next level.

For a meatless option, skip the bacon bits and go for a combination of sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, and diced tomatoes.

Drizzle with a zesty cheese sauce or sprinkle with nutritional yeast for that umami flavor.

Give your baked potato a Tex-Mex makeover by adding seasoned ground beef or turkey, black beans, diced avocado, Monterey Jack cheese, and a dollop of salsa.

Pair your baked potato with a warm bowl of homemade soup. Nothing is more comforting broccoli cheddar soup. It’s the ideal companion to the potato’s fluffy interior.

Enjoy the potatoes along with oven baked chicken and simple sauteed vegetables.

You could also consider adding some sautéed garlic parmesan mushrooms to your plate.

Or how about some roasted broccoli? The slight char will create a beautiful contrast in texture and flavor with the soft potato.

Of course, nothing is more classic than pairing a baked potato with steak and roasted broccoli.

Air fryer recipes cook things in a fraction of the time an oven takes. Check out our air fryer fried chicken and air fryer pizzas for two great choices.

When To Serve Air Fryer Baked Potato

WEEKNIGHT DINNER: Whip up these air fryer baked potatoes for a quick and satisfying meal. They are delicious with slow cooker coca cola chicken.

BBQ SIDE DISH: Pair these baked potatoes with grilled meats and veggies at your next barbecue.

SOLO SUPPER: Sometimes, a simple meal for one is just what you need. Make a single air fryer baked potato and customize it with your favorite toppings.

GAME DAY SNACK: Serve the potatoes as a game-day snack or appetizer. Cut them into smaller portions and offer a variety of toppings like chili, cheese, and sour cream.

BAKED POTATO BAR: An easy and fun way to offer lots of customizations, prepare your potatoes in the air fryer. Then, offer guests plenty of classic topping options to choose from to build their own favorite combo. You’re sure to get rave reviews with this idea!

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Storing Air Fryer Baked Potatoes

Now that you’ve mastered making the best baked potatoes, let’s talk about how to store and enjoy them beyond your initial serving.

MAKE AHEAD: If you’re planning to prepare these baked potatoes in advance, you can certainly do so.

Follow the recipe up to the point of baking in the air fryer.

Once you’ve seasoned your potatoes, place them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.

Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before air frying.

When you’re ready to enjoy, pop them in the air fryer as instructed, and you’ll have a freshly cooked, hassle-free potato to enjoy.

IN THE FRIDGE: Store air fryer potatoes in a container or storage bag in the refrigerator for three to four days.

IN THE FREEZER: Freeze air fryer potatoes in an airtight freezer-safe storage container for up to three months.

Label the potatoes with the use-by date, so you make sure to enjoy them while they are at their best.

Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

REHEATING: Whether you’re reheating refrigerated or frozen baked potatoes, you have a few options.

To reheat in the air fryer, preheat it to 375°F (190°C), and then place the baked potato in the air fryer basket.

Heat for about five to seven minutes until warmed through and crispy. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave.

Microwave the baked potato for one to two minutes until heated.

For frozen baked potatoes, follow the same thawing process in the refrigerator, and then use either reheating method.

overhead shot of Air Fryer Baked Potato on a plate

You Will Love Baked Potatoes In Air Fryer

QUICK AND EASY: The air fryer cooks them to perfection in less time than traditional baking, making it a time-saving option for busy weeknights.

CRISPY SKIN: The air fryer’s high heat crisps up the potato skin beautifully, creating a contrast with the fluffy interior.

CUSTOMIZABLE TOPPINGS: From classic choices like sour cream and cheddar cheese to creative options like Tex-Mex or vegetarian toppings, personalize your potato to suit your cravings.

Air frying takes much less time than oven-baked potatoes but still gives you the perfect baked potato. Add your favorite toppings and serve this air fryer baked potato along with your favorite entrees. It may become your favorite way to prepare baked potatoes!

Baked Potato In Air Fryer FAQs

Can I freeze air fryer baked potatoes?

This easy recipe can be kept in the freezer for up to three months when stored in an airtight container.

How do I know that the baked potato in the air fryer is done?

Using a fork, you will want to pierce the potato. If the fork goes into the potato without any resistance, it is ready to enjoy.

What are the best potatoes to use for this recipe?

This method works best for russet potatoes and Yukon gold potatoes.

Do you need to pierce the potato in the air fryer?

You will want to pierce the potatoes before placing them in the air fryer. The holes will help the steam escape while the potatoes are cooking.

Are baked potatoes better in the oven or air fryer?

Whether baked potatoes are better in the oven or air fryer is up to you to decide, but we think the air fryer potatoes are mighty tasty with their crispy exterior and soft inside.

Are air fryer potatoes healthy?

Air-fried potatoes are quite healthy, especially compared to deep-fried potatoes.

They use much less oil during the cooking process, which helps reduce calories.

Can I make sweet potatoes in the air fryer?

Sweet potatoes cook well in an air fryer due to their natural sugars, which caramelize and create a delicious, crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and tender.

You can use the same method as regular Russet potatoes to make sweet potatoes in the air fryer.

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Air Fryer Baked Potato Recipe

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This air fryer potato recipe results in delicious potatoes that come out with a perfect skin and a soft texture inside.

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 40

Total Time 45

Servings

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Ingredients

3 to 4 russet potatoes, depending on how many will fit in your air fryer
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Sea salt, to taste

Instructions

Clean potatoes well by scrubbing them under running water. Pat dry with a clean towel.
Prick the potatoes all over with a fork
Brush or rub oil over the entire outside of the potatoes and sprinkle with sea salt (sprinkle salt as liberally as you’d like.)
Place the prepared potatoes in a single layer in the basket of the air fryer (there should be a bit of room between the potatoes, do not overcrowd.)
Cook at 400°F for 30 minutes, then turn and continue cooking 10-15 minutes more.
Cook time will vary slightly depending on the size of the potatoes and the number of potatoes in the air fryer basket.

Notes

The air fryer will cook a potato with a delicious, crispy skin, maybe even better than in the oven. The oil on the skin aids in a crispy exterior, but you do not have to use oil on the skin. You can follow the recipe as is and omit the oil and salt. Note that the oil helps hold the salt on the skin, so if you skip the oil, you’re skipping the salt too.
You do not need to line the air fryer basket, and do not place the potatoes on a plate or anything in the basket. Allowing the hot air to swirl up and around all sides of the potato will produce the best results.
Test that the potato is done by gently pressing a fork into it. If the fork goes into the potato easily, the potato is done. If you feel resistance in the center of the potato, go ahead and cook for 5 minutes longer.

Nutrition

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Air Fry Baked Potato