- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Dry them completely with a towel.
- Prick each potato several times with a fork. This allows steam to escape during the cooking process and prevents the potatoes from bursting.
- Season the Potatoes:
- Rub each potato with olive oil. This helps the skins become extra crispy.
- Sprinkle the potatoes generously with salt. This enhances the flavor and also contributes to the crispiness of the skin.
- Cook in the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) if it requires preheating.
- Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching to allow for even air circulation.
- Cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender inside when pierced with a fork. The cooking time might vary depending on the size of your potatoes and the model of your air fryer.
- Halfway through the cooking time, flip the potatoes to ensure they get crispy on all sides.
- Check Doneness:
- The potatoes are done when they are crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside. You can check doneness by inserting a fork or knife; it should slide in easily with little resistance.
- Serve:
- Cut a slit down the middle of each potato and fluff up the inside with a fork.
- Add your favorite toppings such as butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, chives, or bacon bits.
Tips for Perfection:
- Choosing the right type of potato is crucial for a good baked potato. Russet potatoes are ideal because of their thick skin and starchy content, which results in fluffy interiors.
- Make sure the potatoes are fully dry before oiling and seasoning them. Moisture can prevent the skins from becoming crispy.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Air circulation is key to getting the skins crispy.
Air fryer baked potatoes are a simple yet satisfying dish that works well as a side or even as a main, depending on your toppings. Enjoy your meal with this quicker, healthier method that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture!