Get ready for a tasty treat with these crispy air fryer baked potatoes! They have a soft inside and a golden, crunchy skin that will make your mouth water.
Honestly, I love how quickly they cook in the air fryer. After just a few minutes, I have the perfect side dish ready to enjoy. Pair them with butter or toppings of your choice for extra yum! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are perfect for baking thanks to their starchy texture. If you can’t find russet potatoes, Yukon Gold or sweet potatoes can work! Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is fantastic for creating crispy skin. For a different flavor, you can substitute it with avocado oil or melted butter. Both will give a tasty finish.
Kosher Salt: I love kosher salt for its texture and flavor balance. If you only have table salt, you can use it, but remember that it’s finer, so use less—about ½ teaspoon should do.
Garlic & Onion Powder: These add a nice flavor boost. If you prefer fresh, you can use minced garlic or finely chopped onions. Just remember to adjust cooking times, as they can burn easily!
How Do I Get My Potatoes Extra Crispy?
To achieve that perfect crispy skin on your baked potatoes, a few steps are key. First, wash and dry the potatoes thoroughly. This removes any moisture that can prevent crispiness!
- Preheat your air fryer – Starting with a hot air fryer creates an immediate sear on the skin.
- Prick the potatoes – This allows steam to escape and prevents them from bursting during cooking.
- Oil and season – Rub the potatoes in olive oil and season evenly. The oil helps with crispiness, while the salt enhances flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd – Make sure there’s space around each potato in the air fryer basket. This ensures they cook evenly and turn crispy.
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (more to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
For Serving:
- Butter
- Sour cream
- Chives (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 45 minutes total—5 minutes for prep and 35-40 minutes for cooking. It’s an easy and quick way to enjoy perfectly crispy baked potatoes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This should take around 5 minutes. Preheating helps to get that crispy skin you want!
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Give the russet potatoes a good wash under cold water to get rid of any dirt. After washing, dry them off carefully with a clean towel. This step is important because we want them to be dry for better crispiness!
3. Prick and Season the Potatoes:
Using a fork, prick each potato several times. This allows steam to escape while they cook. Now, rub each potato with olive oil until they are all nicely coated. Sprinkle the kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder over the potatoes, rolling them around to ensure every side is seasoned well.
4. Air Fry the Potatoes:
Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they aren’t overcrowded, as they need space to cook evenly. If your air fryer is smaller, you may need to do this in batches. Set the timer for 35-40 minutes, and remember to turn the potatoes halfway through the cooking time for an even crisp!
5. Fluff and Serve:
Once the timer goes off, carefully remove the potatoes from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. Cut a slit down the middle of each potato and fluff the insides with a fork. Add a pat of butter, and if you like, top them with sour cream and chives. Now they are ready to enjoy—serve hot and dig in!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
Yes! While russet potatoes are ideal for achieving that fluffy interior and crispy exterior, you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, especially with smaller or waxy varieties. Adjust accordingly and check for doneness with a fork!
What Should I Do If My Potatoes Are Not Crispy Enough?
If your potatoes aren’t as crispy as you’d like, try increasing the cooking time by 5-10 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking. Additionally, ensure they’re well coated with oil and that your air fryer isn’t overcrowded, which can impact crispiness.
How to Store Leftover Baked Potatoes?
To store leftover baked potatoes, let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to bring back their crispy texture.
Can I Prepare These Potatoes in Advance?
Certainly! You can wash and season the potatoes a few hours ahead and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just let them come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before air frying for even cooking. Enjoy the convenience without sacrificing flavor!
