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The Ultimate Crispy Skin, Fluffy Inside Air Fryer Baked Potato Recipe (Ready in Under 40 Minutes)

A perfectly cooked air fryer baked potato split open and loaded with shredded cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and chives.
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Learn how to make the best air fryer baked potato with perfectly crispy skin and a wonderfully fluffy center. This fast method is ideal for weeknight meals and frees up your oven space.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium Russet potatoes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon coarse salt (like kosher salt)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional Toppings: Shredded cheddar cheese, cooked bacon bits, sour cream, chopped chives

Instructions

  1. Scrub the potatoes well under running water to remove any dirt. Dry them completely with a paper towel; moisture prevents crispiness.
  2. Use a fork to prick each potato deeply about 6 to 8 times all over. This allows steam to escape.
  3. Rub the entire surface of each potato with olive oil. Distribute the oil evenly.
  4. In a small bowl, mix the coarse salt and pepper. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the oiled potatoes, rubbing it into the skin.
  5. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is important for achieving that crispy skin.
  6. Place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if necessary.
  7. Air fry for 30 to 35 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time (around 15 minutes), carefully flip the potatoes over using tongs.
  8. Check for doneness by piercing the center with a sharp knife or fork. If it slides in easily, the potato is done. If not, continue cooking in 3 to 5-minute increments.
  9. Remove the potatoes from the air fryer. Immediately slice them open lengthwise down the center without cutting all the way through. Gently squeeze the sides to fluff up the inside.
  10. Add your desired toppings, like cheese, bacon, sour cream, and chives, and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Russet potatoes work best for this recipe because their high starch content yields the fluffiest interior.
  • For extra crispy skin, you can lightly brush the potatoes with oil again halfway through cooking.
  • This is a fantastic, fast side dish for holiday gatherings when your oven is full.
  • If you want a slightly faster start, you can microwave the potatoes for 2 minutes before oiling and air frying, but the pure air fryer method gives the best skin texture.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kitchnkudos.com/air-fryer-baked-potato/