Air fryer baked potatoes are a delicious and convenient way to enjoy this classic side dish with a crispy skin and fluffy interior. Here’s a simple recipe along with some important notes for making the perfect air fryer baked potatoes:
Ingredients:
- Russet potatoes (1 or more, as needed)
- Olive oil or cooking spray
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Toppings of your choice (e.g., butter, sour cream, cheddar cheese, chives)
Instructions:
- Select Potatoes: Choose Russet potatoes, which are ideal for baking due to their high starch content.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Clean and Dry: Wash the potatoes thoroughly, scrubbing off any dirt. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Poke Holes: Use a fork to prick the potatoes several times all around. This allows steam to escape during cooking and prevents them from bursting.
- Coat with Oil: Lightly brush the potatoes with olive oil or use cooking spray to coat them evenly. This helps the skin become crispy.
- Season: Season the potatoes with salt and pepper, or any other seasonings you prefer.
- Air Fry: Place the potatoes in the preheated air fryer basket. Make sure they are not touching and have enough space for air circulation. If you’re cooking multiple potatoes, you may need to do this in batches.
- Cook: Cook the potatoes for approximately 35-45 minutes, depending on their size and your air fryer’s power. Turn the potatoes halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking. You can also spray them with more oil after flipping if desired.
- Check Doneness: To check if the potatoes are done, insert a fork or knife into the center. If it slides in easily and the inside is soft and fluffy, they are ready. If not, continue cooking for a few more minutes.
- Serve: Once done, remove the potatoes from the air fryer. Let them cool for a few minutes before cutting them open. Be careful as they’ll be hot.
- Toppings: Add your favorite toppings, such as butter, sour cream, cheddar cheese, chives, or bacon bits.
Notes:
- Potato Size: Larger potatoes will take longer to cook, so adjust the cooking time accordingly. Smaller potatoes can be ready in as little as 30 minutes.
- Oil: While olive oil is a common choice, you can use other oils or cooking sprays of your preference.
- Seasonings: Feel free to get creative with your seasonings. Garlic powder, paprika, and rosemary are all great options for added flavor.
- Toppings: Baked potatoes are a canvas for your favorite toppings. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite.
- Air Fryer Variability: Air fryer models can vary in power and cooking times, so it’s essential to keep an eye on your potatoes as they cook and adjust the time as needed.
Enjoy your crispy-skinned, fluffy-centered air fryer baked potatoes as a side dish or a satisfying meal with your favorite toppings!
