There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a perfectly baked potato: a crispy, golden skin on the outside and a soft, fluffy interior that melts in your mouth. Thanks to the air fryer, you can now enjoy classic baked potatoes in less time, with better texture, and no need to heat up your oven.
Air fryer baked potatoes are ideal as a comforting side dish or a hearty base for endless toppings—cheese, butter, sour cream, herbs, or even chili. Simple ingredients, minimal effort, and restaurant-quality results make this recipe a must-try.
Why Make Baked Potatoes in the Air Fryer?
-
Extra crispy skin without deep frying
-
Faster cooking than a traditional oven
-
Fluffy, evenly cooked inside
-
Energy-efficient and perfect for any season
-
Beginner-friendly with only a few ingredients
Ingredients
-
4 medium potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold work best)
-
2 tablespoons olive oil
-
Salt, to taste
-
Black pepper, to taste
Optional add-ons:
Garlic powder, paprika, dried herbs (rosemary or thyme)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash the potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. Pat them completely dry using a kitchen towel. Dry skin helps achieve maximum crispiness.
Step 2: Season
Pierce each potato 3–4 times with a fork. Rub the potatoes evenly with olive oil, then sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. Add optional spices if desired.
Step 3: Air Fry
Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between them.
-
Temperature: 200°C / 400°F
-
Time: 35–45 minutes
Flip the potatoes halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
Step 4: Check for Doneness
The potatoes are ready when a knife slides easily into the center and the skin is crisp and golden.
Step 5: Rest & Serve
Remove from the air fryer and let rest for 5 minutes. Slice open, fluff the inside with a fork, and add your favorite toppings.
Serving Ideas
-
Classic: Butter, salt, and black pepper
-
Loaded: Sour cream, cheese, and chives
-
Healthy: Greek yogurt, olive oil drizzle, fresh herbs
-
Hearty: Chili, shredded chicken, or sautéed mushrooms
Pro Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Potatoes
-
Choose similar-sized potatoes for even cooking
-
Don’t overcrowd the basket—airflow is key
-
Use coarse salt for extra crunch
-
For ultra-crispy skin, cook an extra 3–5 minutes
Storage & Reheating
Storage:
Store leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
Reheat in the air fryer at 180°C / 350°F for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness.
Related Questions
Q: What type of potatoes are best for air frying?
Russet potatoes are ideal due to their starchy texture and thick skin, but Yukon Gold also works well.
Q: Do I need to wrap potatoes in foil?
No. Foil traps moisture and prevents the skin from becoming crispy in the air fryer.
Q: Can I make this recipe oil-free?
Yes, but the skin will be less crispy. A light oil coating gives the best texture.
Q: Can I cook more potatoes at once?
Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding and uneven cooking.
Q: Are air fryer baked potatoes healthy?
Yes. They use minimal oil and retain nutrients, making them a healthier alternative to deep-fried options.