1. Prepare the Potatoes
- Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt.
- Pat the potatoes dry with a paper towel.
- Using a fork, poke several holes all over each potato. This helps steam escape during cooking.
2. Season the Potatoes
- In a mixing bowl, rub the potatoes with olive oil, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle salt and black pepper over the potatoes, rubbing them to distribute the seasoning evenly.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating helps to achieve a crispy skin.
4. Air Fry the Potatoes
- Place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching to allow for even cooking.
- Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 35-45 minutes, depending on the size of the potatoes. Flip the potatoes halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crisping.
- Check for doneness by inserting a fork or skewer into the center of a potato. If it goes in easily, the potatoes are done.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Once the potatoes are cooked through and the skin is crispy, remove them from the air fryer using tongs.
- Let them cool for a few minutes before slicing them open.
- Serve with your favorite toppings such as butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, chives, or bacon bits.
Tips for Perfect Baked Potatoes
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for baking due to their high starch content and fluffy texture.
- Poke Holes: Always poke holes in the potatoes to allow steam to escape and prevent them from bursting.
- Even Coating: Ensure the potatoes are evenly coated with olive oil and seasoning for the best flavor and texture.
- Check for Doneness: Cooking times may vary based on potato size, so check for doneness by inserting a fork or skewer.
Variations to Try
- Garlic and Herb: Add minced garlic and dried herbs to the olive oil before coating the potatoes for an extra layer of flavor.
- Cheesy Baked Potatoes: Sprinkle shredded cheese on the potatoes during the last few minutes of cooking for a melty, cheesy topping.
- Loaded Baked Potatoes: Top with cooked bacon bits, sour cream, shredded cheese, and chives for a fully loaded baked potato.
Conclusion
Air fryer baked potatoes are a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy this classic side dish. With their crispy skin and fluffy interior, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household.
Key Takeaway
The secret to perfect air fryer baked potatoes lies in the preparation and seasoning. By following this guide, you’ll achieve crispy, golden, and fluffy baked potatoes every time.
We hope you found this guide helpful and inspiring. Enjoy your air fryer baked potatoes!