Hey y’all! If you’re on the hunt for a super easy and incredibly delicious side dish, you’re going to love these Air Fryer Baked Potatoes. They’re crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and perfect for any meal from casual family dinners to holiday parties. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- Crispy skin with a fluffy interior makes for the perfect texture.
- Quick cooking time saves you hours compared to traditional baking.
- Simple ingredients with no fuss make this recipe budget-friendly.
- Perfect for customizing to your taste with a variety of toppings.
- Uses less oil for a healthier alternative to traditional baked potatoes.
Ingredients
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and dry the potatoes thoroughly. Use a fork to poke several holes in each potato to allow steam to escape while cooking.
Step 2: Season the Potatoes
Rub each potato with olive oil, then sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper, ensuring even coverage.
Step 3: Air Fry the Potatoes
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 35-40 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the skin is crispy, turning them halfway through.
Notes
- For extra crispy skin, use coarse sea salt. Learn more about different types of salt here.
- If your potatoes are larger, you may need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes.
Variations
- Cheesy Baked Potatoes: Add shredded cheese during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Herbed Potatoes: Mix in rosemary or thyme with the olive oil before coating the potatoes.
- Garlic Infused: Add minced garlic to the oil for a garlic-flavored twist.
Required Equipment
- Air fryer
- Fork
- Mixing bowl
Storage Instructions
Store leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until heated through.
Suggested Pairings
Serve these baked potatoes with steak, grilled chicken, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. For more pairing ideas, check out this guide.
Pro Tips
- Choose potatoes of similar size for even cooking.
- Prick the potatoes well to prevent bursting during air frying.
- Don’t skip the step of turning the potatoes halfway for an even crisp.
FAQ
- Can I use other types of potatoes? Yes, Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well but may require adjustments in cooking time.
- How do I know when my potatoes are done? They should be easily pierced with a fork.
- Can I bake sweet potatoes this way? Absolutely! Follow the same steps for a nutritious twist.