- Preheat the air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This ensures that the potatoes start cooking immediately when placed inside.
- Arrange the potatoes in the air fryer basket. Place the seasoned potatoes into the air fryer basket. Ensure there is enough space around each potato for air to circulate. If your air fryer basket is small, cook the potatoes in batches.
- Air fry the potatoes. Cook the potatoes for 35-45 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The cooking time will vary based on the size of the potatoes. Smaller potatoes will take around 35 minutes, while larger ones may need closer to 45 minutes.
- Check for doneness. After the cooking time is up, check if the potatoes are done by inserting a fork or knife into the center. If it goes in easily, the potatoes are cooked through. If they’re still a bit firm, continue cooking for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Stage 3: Serving the Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
- Rest the potatoes. After cooking, let the potatoes rest for a few minutes before cutting into them. This helps the steam redistribute, making the insides fluffier.
- Cut open and serve. Cut a slit down the center of each potato and gently squeeze the ends to fluff up the insides. Top with your favorite toppings such as butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, chives, or crispy bacon bits. You can also make them loaded with a combination of your favorite ingredients.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Baked Potatoes:
- Use russet potatoes. Russet potatoes are ideal for baking due to their starchy texture, which results in a fluffy interior. However, you can use other varieties, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes, if preferred.
- Flip halfway through. Flipping the potatoes halfway through ensures even cooking and helps crisp up both sides of the skin.
- Check the potatoes before serving. Since air fryer models can vary, it’s a good idea to check the potatoes at the minimum cooking time and adjust as necessary.
- For extra crispy skin: Lightly spray the potatoes with cooking spray before air frying, in addition to the olive oil, for an even crispier texture.
Final Thoughts:
Air fryer baked potatoes are a fast, easy, and healthier alternative to oven-baked potatoes. The air fryer’s circulating hot air cooks the potatoes quickly while achieving a crispy, flavorful skin and soft, fluffy interior. Whether served simply with butter or loaded with toppings, these potatoes are a perfect side dish or main course that everyone will enjoy.