Air Fryer Baked Potato

When I want a crispy, satisfying side that takes minimal effort but delivers maximum comfort, I always turn to my trusty air fryer baked potato. It’s a game-changer—no need to heat up the whole oven or wait forever. With just a few basic ingredients, I can whip up baked potatoes with perfectly crisp skins and fluffy, steaming centers. They’re my go-to when I need something quick, hearty, and endlessly customizable.

Whether I'm pairing them with a juicy steak, stuffing them with veggies and cheese for a full meal, or keeping it classic with a pat of butter and a sprinkle of salt, air fryer baked potatoes never disappoint. They’ve quickly become a staple in my weekly meal rotation, and once you try them, I bet they’ll become one in yours too.

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Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Baked Potato

You get all the best parts of a classic baked potato in half the time. The air fryer crisps up the skin beautifully, making it perfectly seasoned and slightly salty, while the inside stays tender and fluffy. Plus, it's hands-off and mess-free—no foil, no oil splatter, no cleanup drama.

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What Kind of Potatoes Work Best for Air Fryer Baked Potatoes?

Russet potatoes are the top pick here. Their thick skins get extra crispy in the air fryer, and their starchy interiors fluff up perfectly. If you're craving that iconic baked potato texture, don't swap these out. Yukon golds or red potatoes will cook, but they won’t give you the same soft inside and crisp skin combo.

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Options for Substitutions

If you're out of russets, Yukon golds are your next best option. They'll be creamier inside, though slightly less fluffy. You can also use olive oil instead of avocado oil for brushing the skins. For a dairy-free topping, try vegan butter or a dollop of cashew cream. And if you're watching your sodium, skip the salt and sprinkle on your favorite salt-free seasoning blend instead.

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Ingredients for this Air Fryer Baked Potato

• Russet Potatoes – These are ideal for baking due to their high starch content, which creates that fluffy interior. Their thick skin also crisps up nicely in the air fryer.
• Avocado Oil or Olive Oil – Helps the skin get that perfect crisp while locking in moisture.
• Kosher Salt – Adds flavor and enhances the crispiness of the skin. Use a coarse grain for best results.
• Fresh Cracked Black Pepper – A little seasoning goes a long way in enhancing the flavor.
• Optional Toppings – Butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, chives, bacon bits, or your favorite vegan alternatives.

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Step 1: Wash and Dry the Potatoes

Start by scrubbing your russet potatoes under cold water. Dry them thoroughly with a towel—dry skin means crispier results in the air fryer.

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Step 2: Oil and Season

Rub each potato with avocado or olive oil. Sprinkle generously with kosher salt and a few cracks of black pepper. Make sure the entire surface is coated evenly.

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Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures even cooking from the moment you place the potatoes inside.

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Step 4: Cook the Potatoes

Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch. Cook at 400°F for 35 to 40 minutes. Flip them halfway through to get even crisping on all sides.

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Step 5: Check for Doneness

Use a fork or knife to pierce the potato. If it slides in easily, it’s ready. If there's resistance, add another 5 minutes and check again.

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Step 6: Slice and Fluff

Let the potatoes rest for 2-3 minutes. Then slice them open lengthwise and fluff the insides with a fork. Add your favorite toppings and serve hot.

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How Long to Prepare the Air Fryer Baked Potato

Preparation Time: It only takes about 5–10 minutes to prep your potatoes—washing, drying, oiling, and seasoning them. You can even do this ahead of time and keep them in the fridge if needed.

Cooking Time: Depending on the size of your russet potatoes, expect them to cook in the air fryer for 35–40 minutes at 400°F. If they’re particularly large, they might need an extra 5–10 minutes. Flip them halfway through for the best results.

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Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Baked Potatoes

• Choose evenly sized potatoes to ensure they cook uniformly.
• Dry the skin thoroughly before oiling to get maximum crisp.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Leave space for air circulation.
• Pierce them only after cooking to retain moisture inside.
• Rest them for a few minutes before slicing to let the steam finish the cooking.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the preheat: The air fryer needs to be hot when the potatoes go in.
• Not drying the potatoes: Water left on the skin leads to soggy results.
• Overcrowding: Too many potatoes can result in uneven cooking.
• Using too much oil: A light rub is all you need. Excess oil can make the skin greasy.
• Undercooking large potatoes: Always check for tenderness before pulling them out.

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What to Serve With Air Fryer Baked Potatoes?

1. Grilled Steak

The crisp potato pairs beautifully with a juicy, seared steak.

2. Roasted Vegetables

Balance the meal with colorful veggies tossed in herbs.

3. Chili

Top your potato with a hearty scoop of chili for a comfort food classic.

4. Garden Salad

A fresh, crunchy salad lightens the plate and adds texture.

5. BBQ Chicken

Smoky barbecue chicken brings bold flavor to this simple side.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerating: Let leftover baked potatoes cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until hot. You can also microwave them, but the skin won’t be as crispy.

Freezing: You can freeze cooked potatoes. Wrap them in foil or plastic wrap, place in a freezer bag, and store up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per medium russet potato (without toppings):

• Calories: 160
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fat: 0g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 5mg
• Cholesterol: 0mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get the skin extra crispy?

Make sure the potatoes are fully dry, use a light coat of oil, and don’t overcrowd your air fryer. Crisping is all about airflow.

Can I use foil in the air fryer?

It’s best not to for this recipe. Direct contact with the air fryer basket helps the skin crisp up better.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Cook them fully, then store in the fridge. Reheat in the air fryer when ready to eat.

Do I need to pierce the potatoes before air frying?

Nope! Since the air fryer uses dry heat and not steam, piercing isn’t necessary and may even let moisture escape.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead?

Absolutely! They may take slightly less time to cook and the texture will be softer, but the method is the same.

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Conclusion

Air fryer baked potatoes are a brilliant kitchen shortcut that doesn't compromise on flavor or texture. They're crisp on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and endlessly customizable to fit any meal or mood. Whether you're whipping up a quick side for dinner or creating a loaded main dish, this recipe is one you'll reach for again and again. With minimal prep and maximum reward, it's the easiest path to potato perfection.

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