Description
Is there anything more comforting than a classic baked potato? This air fryer recipe cuts the cooking time significantly while delivering results that rival your favorite steakhouse. By circulating hot air rapidly around the potato, the skin blisters and crisps up beautifully while the inside steams to fork-tender perfection. Get ready to ditch the aluminum foil and embrace the crunch!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 medium Russet or Idaho Potatoes (approx. 1/2 lb / 225 g each)
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil or Avocado Oil
- 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt (or to taste)
- Optional Toppings: Butter, sour cream, chives, shredded cheddar, bacon bits
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Scrub potatoes thoroughly under cold running water. Pat them completely dry with a paper towel. Prick each potato 10–12 times all over with a fork to allow steam to escape.
- Season the Skin: Rub the oil over the potatoes to coat fully. Sprinkle kosher salt generously over the skin, rolling the potatoes to ensure an even savory crust.
- Air Fry: Place potatoes in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them (do not overcrowd). Set to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook: Cook for 35–45 minutes. Timing depends on size. Check by gently squeezing with tongs (it should yield) or inserting a fork into the center (it should glide in with zero resistance).
- Serve: Remove from basket and let rest for 2–3 minutes. Slice lengthwise, push ends to pop open, fluff with a fork, and add toppings immediately.
Notes
- Potato Choice: Russet or Idaho potatoes have a high starch content which ensures that cloud-like, fluffy interior. Waxy potatoes won’t give the same result.
- Dry Skin is Key: Moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Make sure the potatoes are bone-dry before oiling.
- Safety Tip: Don’t skip pricking the potato! This prevents pressure buildup which can cause the potato to burst.
- Air Circulation: Do not overcrowd the basket. The hot air needs to circulate freely around the entire surface of the potato to crisp the skin evenly.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Lunch
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 potato
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 300 mg (varies by salt used)
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 37 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
