Easy Air Fryer Baked Potato Recipe – Crispy, Delicious

Baked potatoes are a classic comfort food, loved for their crispy skin and fluffy interior. But making the perfect baked potato often requires long cooking times in an oven. Enter the air fryer—a game-changer in the kitchen! With this Air Fryer Baked Potato Recipe, you can achieve crispy, golden skin and soft, pillowy insides in half the time of traditional methods. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to deep frying or drenching your spuds in oil. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or turning it into a loaded meal, this recipe is quick, simple, and packed with flavor.

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Nutrition Information (per serving)

• Calories: 200
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 3g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 400mg

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Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Active Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Resting Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Cuisine: American
• Course: Side Dish
• Servings: 2

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Equipment Needed

• Air fryer
• Fork
• Small bowl
• Brush or hands for oil application

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Ingredients

• 2 medium Russet potatoes (approximately 6–8 ounces each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped chives, bacon bits, or butter

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Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

1. Wash and dry the potatoes thoroughly. Scrub the skin with a vegetable brush to remove any dirt. Pat them completely dry with a kitchen towel.
2. Use a fork to pierce each potato 6–8 times. This helps release steam as the potatoes cook and prevents them from bursting.

Step 2: Season the Potatoes

3. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the potatoes. Ensure the entire surface is evenly coated with oil and seasoning. This will create the crispy skin everyone loves.

Step 3: Air Frying

5. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. Preheating helps the potatoes cook evenly.
6. Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to ensure air circulates properly.
7. Cook for 35–40 minutes, flipping the potatoes halfway through to ensure even crisping.

Step 4: Check for Doneness

8. After 35 minutes, check if the potatoes are done by piercing them with a fork or knife. If it slides in easily, they’re ready. For larger potatoes, add an extra 5–10 minutes as needed.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

9. Remove the potatoes from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes. This helps them cool slightly and makes handling easier.
10. Slice open the potatoes and fluff the interior with a fork. Add your favorite toppings and serve warm!

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Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Baked Potatoes

• Potato choice: Russet potatoes are ideal due to their high starch content, which creates a fluffy interior.
• Oil alternatives: You can use avocado oil or melted butter instead of olive oil for a different flavor.
• Crispier skin: If you love ultra-crispy skin, sprinkle a bit of garlic powder or smoked paprika on the potatoes before cooking.
• Batch cooking: If making more than two potatoes, cook them in batches to prevent overcrowding.

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Why Use an Air Fryer for Baked Potatoes?

• Faster cooking: Air fryers reduce cooking time by 30–40% compared to ovens.
• Energy-efficient: They consume less electricity than an oven.
• Crispy perfection: The rapid hot air circulation crisps up the potato skin without the need for excessive oil.
• Convenience: No preheating a large oven or heating up your kitchen.

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Topping Ideas for Your Air Fryer Baked Potatoes

• Classic toppings: Butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, and chives.
• Hearty options: Chili, pulled pork, or grilled chicken for a loaded potato meal.
• Healthy choices: Greek yogurt, steamed broccoli, or avocado slices.
• Vegan options: Nutritional yeast, cashew cream, or roasted chickpeas for crunch.

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Serving Suggestions

This Air Fryer Baked Potato Recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside grilled steak, roasted chicken, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It also makes a satisfying vegetarian option when loaded with your favorite plant-based toppings.

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Storing and Reheating

• Storage: Wrap leftover baked potatoes in foil or place them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, pop the potato back into the air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave for 1–2 minutes, though the skin may lose its crispiness.

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With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this Air Fryer Baked Potato Recipe is bound to become a go-to in your kitchen. Perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or even a quick snack, these air-fried baked potatoes are guaranteed to impress. Give them a try and experience how simple, delicious, and versatile this recipe can be!