Description
How to make the Best Air Fryer Baked Potato with crispy skin and a perfectly fluffy interior that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
- The Foundation:
- 4 large Russet potatoes (about 8–10 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- Flavor Enhancers:
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt, for finishing
- Classic Toppings:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits
Instructions
- Prep Potatoes: Wash and scrub your Russet potatoes well, then pierce each one 4-5 times with a fork. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with kosher salt and black pepper, rubbing to coat evenly. This preps them for a perfect Air Fryer Baked Potato.
- Preheat Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes. This ensures a hot start for that crispy skin. Don’t overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if necessary for the best Air Fryer Baked Potato results.
- Air Fry Potatoes: Place the seasoned potatoes in the preheated air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer. Cook for 35-45 minutes, flipping halfway through. They are done when fork-tender and the skin is wonderfully crispy.
- Season Butter: While potatoes cook, combine softened butter with garlic powder, smoked paprika, and onion powder in a small bowl. This savory mixture will add incredible flavor to your finished Air Fryer Baked Potato, making it truly special.
- Finish Potatoes: Carefully remove hot potatoes from the air fryer. Slice each one lengthwise, then gently squeeze the ends to open and fluff the interior. Add a generous dollop of the seasoned butter inside each one.
- Load & Serve: Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and your favorite classic toppings like sour cream, chives, shredded cheddar, and bacon bits. Serve your perfect Air Fryer Baked Potato immediately for maximum enjoyment.
Notes
Always preheat the air fryer to 400°F and avoid overcrowding the basket for perfectly crispy skin.
Store cooled leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the air fryer.
For a vegan option, use plant-based butter and vegan sour cream/cheese; omit bacon bits.
Serve immediately after cooking, split open and loaded with butter and toppings, for best texture.
Potatoes can be prepped (washed, pierced, oiled, seasoned) a day ahead and refrigerated before air frying.
**Allergy Information:** Dairy
