There’s something undeniably comforting about a perfectly baked potato. The crispy skin, the fluffy interior – it’s a classic dish that never fails to satisfy. And now, with the advent of air fryers, achieving that ideal baked potato has become even easier. In this blog post, we’ll explore the wonderful world of air fryer baked potatoes and share a recipe that will have you coming back for seconds.
Air fryers have taken the culinary world by storm in recent years, offering a healthier alternative to deep frying without sacrificing taste or texture. These countertop appliances use hot air circulation to cook food, resulting in a crispy exterior and tender interior. They are particularly well-suited for cooking potatoes, as the high heat helps to achieve that coveted golden brown skin.
When it comes to selecting the perfect potato for baking in an air fryer, size matters. Look for medium-sized potatoes that are uniform in shape, as this will ensure even cooking. Russet potatoes are the most commonly used variety for baking, thanks to their high starch content and fluffy texture. However, you can experiment with other varieties such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a different flavor profile.
Before cooking, it’s important to properly prepare your potatoes. Start by scrubbing them clean under running water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure a crispy skin. Next, use a fork to prick several holes in the potatoes. This will allow steam to escape during cooking and prevent them from bursting open.
Now it’s time to season your potatoes. While a simple sprinkle of salt and pepper can go a long way, feel free to get creative with your seasonings. You can try adding garlic powder, paprika, or even a sprinkle of grated cheese for an extra flavor boost. Coat the potatoes evenly with olive oil or melted butter to help them crisp up in the air fryer.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes before cooking. This will ensure that the potatoes start cooking immediately once you place them inside. Arrange the potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave enough space between them for the hot air to circulate.
Cook the potatoes in the air fryer for 35-40 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the flesh is tender. You can check for doneness by inserting a fork into the center of the potato – it should slide in easily without any resistance. If you prefer a softer skin, you can wrap the potatoes in aluminum foil before cooking.
Once the potatoes are done, carefully remove them from the air fryer using tongs or oven mitts. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before slicing them open. Serve your air fryer baked potatoes with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, chives, bacon bits, or shredded cheese.
With this simple recipe, you can enjoy a perfect air fryer baked potato in no time. The combination of crispy skin and fluffy interior is sure to delight your taste buds. So why wait? Grab your air fryer and get ready to indulge in this easy and delicious dish.
This recipe for Air Fryer Baked Potato comes out perfectly every time. The skin of the potato is salty and crispy while the inside is tender and fluffy.
| Prep Time | 5 Min |
| Cook Time | 40 Min |
| Servings | 4 |
| Calories | 199 Kcal |
Ingredients
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- ½ tsp sea salt, or to taste
- 1 Tbsp olive oil, or use a cooking spray
Instructions
- Scrub potatoes under running water then thoroughly dry with a towel.
- Poke the potato all over with a fork, rub with oil and sprinkle all over with salt. Add the potatoes to the air fryer basket.
- Cook the potatoes in a basket-style air fryer* at 400°F for 30 minutes. Flip the potatoes and cook them for an additional 5-15 minutes depending on size, or until the fork easily slides through to the center. Small potatoes will take less time and larger potatoes may take longer. Use tongs to transfer potatoes to a plate.
