An air fryer can deliver a baked potato the way it’s meant to be enjoyed. Deliciously crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside. It’s the textural combination that’s only made better by a pat of softened butter, which adds an indulgent richness to a very simple dish.
The air fryer baked potato is 100% worth trying. It’s faster than the oven and delivers better texture than the microwave.
Why use an air fryer for baked potatoes
The air fryer circulates hot air around the potatoes, which cooks them evenly and encourage the skin crisp up. Once you know the timing, you can produce fabulous baked potatoes consistently.
There are other benefits, too. Air fryer baked potatoes are easy and fast. Prep work is minimal and the preheating and cook times can be shorter than the oven, depending on how many potatoes you’re cooking.
If I’m making fewer than four baked potatoes, I prefer the air fryer to the oven.
Ingredients
You really only need the potatoes, and Russets work the best. For the best results, you’ll want to have oil and salt on hand also. Avocado and canola oil work well if you prefer neutral flavors. I use olive oil because I love the flavor.
Remember to plan for your toppings too. Scroll down for ideas.
Read next: How to cook sweet potatoes in the air fryer
Air-fryer baked potato, step by step
- Prep the potatoes. Scrub them under running water to remove dirt, then dry them thoroughly. Poke each one a few times with a fork.
- Oil and season. Rub each potato lightly with oil, then sprinkle with salt. The oil helps the skin crisp and the seasoning stick.
- Air fry. Place the potatoes in the basket in a single layer, leaving space between each one. Cook at 400°F (204°C) for 35 to 45 minutes, depending on their size. Flip them halfway through for even cooking.
- Check for doneness. The conventional advice is to stick a knife or fork in a potato. It should slide easily into the center with no resistance. I like to grab a paper towel and use it to give the potatoes a squeeze. When they’re done, the skin resists slightly because it’s crispy, but you’ll feel a very soft potato beneath the skin.
- Serve. Let them rest briefly, then run a knife longways down the center, fluff the inside gently with a fork and add your favorite toppings.
Tips for best results
- Choose medium-sized Russet potatoes for the best texture
- Keep potatoes similar in size so they cook evenly
- Give the potatoes space in the basket so the airflow touches all sides
- Use a high smoke point oil like avocado or canola (olive oil is generally fine at this temperature, but lighter oils reduce the chance of smoking)
- Flip halfway through cooking for even browning
- Shorten the cook time for smaller potatoes and lengthen it for larger ones
Read next: How to cook red potatoes in the air fryer
Cooking time guide
Cooking time depends mostly on how big the potatoes are and how many you’re cooking.
- 1 medium potato air fries in about 30 to 35 minutes
- 2 potatoes air fry in about 35 to 40 minutes
- 3 or 4 potatoes will take about 40 to 45 minutes
Remember to do the knife or squeeze test to check for doneness, rather than relying only on time.
Baked potato topping ideas
You can add any toppings you want after your potatoes are done. Butter, cheese, or sour cream are popular choices if you want to keep things simple. I like to add a protein, which turns a simple baked potato into a meal. Have fun experimenting with these winning combos, which work as well on baked potatoes as they do on fried potatoes or sweet potato fries:
- Rotisserie chicken with goat cheese and chives
- Pulled pork, cheddar, and a drizzle of barbecue sauce
- Butter, sour cream, and chives
- Cheddar cheese and bacon bits
- Greek yogurt and green onions
- Chili and shredded cheese
- Roasted vegetables or salsa
Potato nutrition basics
Potatoes are naturally rich in potassium, vitamin C, and fiber (especially when you eat the skin). Most of the calories come from carbohydrates, and the overall nutrition depends on how you top them.
BlogChef takeaway
Air fryer baked potatoes are easy to make and versatile. Enjoy one simply with butter for lunch or add heartier toppings and turn it into a meal. Either way, the crispy skin combined with a fluffy center will be wholly satisfying.
