These air fryer baked potatoes are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and ready in just 35 minutes. A simple, healthy, and budget-friendly side dish for weeknight dinners, family meals, or BBQs. Learn how to cook baked potatoes in the air fryer for perfectly crisp skin and soft, tender centers every time. Save this recipe for your next meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy (ready in ~35 minutes)
- Crispy skin, fluffy interior
- Family-friendly and kid-approved
- Budget-friendly and versatile
- Customize with toppings to suit any meal
Ingredients
Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- 1–2 tsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- Optional toppings: butter, sour cream, chives, shredded cheese, bacon bits
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Wash and prep potatoes – Scrub the potatoes and pat dry. Pierce each potato 3–4 times with a fork.
- Season the skin – Rub each potato with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
- Preheat air fryer – Set to 200°C / 400°F for 3 minutes.
- Cook the potatoes – Place potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway, until skin is crisp and a fork slides easily into the center.
- Serve with toppings – Slice open and add butter, sour cream, cheese, or your favorite toppings.
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Fork for piercing
- Tongs or a spatula
- Knife for serving
Tips & Variations
- Extra crispy skin: Brush with olive oil halfway through cooking
- Flavor twist: Sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, or rosemary on the skin
- Sweet potato version: Swap russet potatoes for sweet potatoes; adjust cook time to 25–30 minutes
- Storage: Refrigerate cooked potatoes for up to 3 days
- Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 180°C / 350°F for 5–7 minutes
- Avoid: Overcrowding the basket potatoes need space for crisping
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a side with steak, chicken, or fish
- Top with chili or shredded cheese for a hearty meal
- Pair with a fresh salad for a balanced dinner
- Garnish with fresh herbs for a restaurant-style touch
Nutrition Facts
(Per serving – 1 medium potato without toppings)
- Calories: 160
- Carbs: 37g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 0.2g
Conclusion
These air fryer baked potatoes are a game-changer crispy, fluffy, and effortless. Perfect for weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep, you’ll never want to bake them in the oven again. Save, share, and enjoy the ultimate baked potato experience.
FAQ
Can I cook frozen potatoes in the air fryer?
Yes, but increase cooking time by 5–10 minutes and check doneness with a fork.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Cook potatoes, let them cool, and refrigerate. Reheat in the air fryer for best results.
What type of potato is best?
Russet potatoes give the crispiest skin and fluffy interior.
Do I need to wrap them in foil?
No, air frying directly gives crispier skin.
How do I know when they’re done?
Pierce with a fork the inside should be soft, and the skin golden and crisp.