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Learn how to make an air fryer baked potato that is perfectly crispy on the outside and fluffy and soft inside. They are the fastest and most delicious way to cook them!
I love using my air fryer as an alternative to baking vegetables because it is FAST!
I think it’s safe to say it has become my most used kitchen gadget, and my favorite way to cook veggies. These include air fryer zucchini and air fryer Brussels sprouts.
After having success with air fryer baked sweet potatoes, I used the same method to bake a potato in the air fryer and now am utterly obsessed.
Table of Contents
Why this recipe works
- Half the cooking time. A traditional oven-baked potato typically takes 60-90 minutes to cook (especially those on the larger side). Using an air fryer cuts the cooking time in half! Because of this, my family enjoys fluffy baked potatoes as an evening side dish regularly.
- More flavorful than oven-baked potatoes. The beauty of air frying potatoes ensures they cook evenly and precisely. Contrary to popular belief, this makes the potatoes taste even better and extra soft in the middle.
- Healthy and delicious. Baked potatoes are packed with fiber, potassium, and vitamin C and are extremely filling. I love to top it with Greek yogurt, cheese, and some chopped veggies for a well-balanced meal.
- Perfect every time. What I love about air frying potatoes is that it guarantees consistent results every single time.
Ingredients needed
Just like oven baked potatoes, besides some seasonings and grease, there isn’t anything else needed to make this air fryer baked potato recipe. Here is what you’ll need:
- Russet potatoes. The BEST kind of potatoes to bake because of their simple flavor and naturally higher starch content. If you can’t find these, use an Idaho potato instead. Choose equal-sized potatoes so they all cook at the same time.
- Butter. To rub around the potatoes so that once cooked, the skin seamlessly peels off. You can also use olive oil, avocado oil, or another cooking oil.
- Salt and pepper. To taste.
- Fillings/toppings. The world is your oyster!!! Cheddar cheese, chili, sliced chicken, sour cream and chives, and even a cheese sauce are all fabulous ideas.
Find the printable recipe in the recipe card below.
How to make air fryer baked potatoes
Cooking a baked potato in the air fryer needs very little prep time, and is mostly hands-off.
Step 1- Prepare the potatoes: Pat dry the potatoes using a paper towel. Poke potatoes using a fork or sharp knife and rub melted butter over their exterior. Then, add a sprinkling of salt and pepper and season well.
Step 2- Air fry the potatoes: Place potatoes in the air fryer basket and cook for 25-30 minutes at 200C/400F. Flip the sides after this time and cook for another 5-10 minutes.
Step 3- Fill and serve: Transfer the cooked potatoes to a plate and let sit for several minutes. Pierce the center with a knife, fluff the innards slightly and add toppings.
Baked potato air frying time
As we know, potatoes differ in size and weight. Follow the time guide below to bake them according to their weight-
- 8 ounces or less: 30-35 minutes.
- 9 to 12 ounces: 35-40 minutes.
- 12 to 14 ounces: 45-50 minutes.
- 14 to 16 ounces: 55-60 minutes.
For anything over 16 ounces, add an extra 5 minutes per ounce.
Tips to make the best recipe
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer. Otherwise, the potatoes won’t cook evenly and will actually take longer. I have a Phillips XXL air fryer which comfortably fits in 4 large potatoes.
- Always poke holes in the potatoes because no one wants exploding vegetables!
- The easiest way to check if the potato is fully cooked is if a sharp knife can easily pierce the potato skin. If needed, cook them a little longer until they are tender.
Storage instructions
To store: Place leftovers in airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
To freeze: Place the cooked and cooled potatoes in freezer-safe bags and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave, oven, or air fryer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can put foil in an air fryer, provided the size does not exceed the top of the air fryer basket.
There is no need to wrap potatoes in foil before adding them to the air fryer basket. Adding a thin layer of it can help with clean up.
While baking potatoes in the oven benefit from being poked beforehand, there is no need to do that when air frying them. The equal circulation ensures they cook evenly throughout.
More air fryer vegetables to try
- Carrots– These make a fabulous French fry substitute.
- Mushrooms– Fast, buttery, and perfect with almost anything.
- Eggplant– My favorite way to cook eggplant.
- Green beans– Tender, crisp, and so good.
- Smashed potatoes– If you love potatoes, this is the recipe for you.
Air Fryer Baked Potato
Video
Instructions
- Scrub the potatoes, then pat them dry.
- Poke the potatoes all over with a fork, then rub the melted butter over each potato and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the potatoes at 200C/400F for 25-30 minutes, flip, and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until crisp.
- Transfer the potatoes onto a plate. Cut the potatoes in the middle and fill generously with toppings.
Notes
Nutrition
Recipe originally posted December 2022, but updated to include new information, recipe video and photos for your benefit!
My new favorite way to cook baked potatoes! Love not having to turn the oven on in the summer!
In the prep directions you say cut with a fork. Do you mean to make the slit, because later you say not to prick the skin. Just want to check.
That is correct 🙂