This method for Air Fryer Baked Potatoes delivers flawless results, creating potatoes with a perfectly crisp, seasoned skin and a tender, fluffy interior. They cook up beautifully every time and are the perfect canvas for all your favorite toppings.
The Ultimate Air Fryer Baked Potato
Using an air fryer for a baked potato might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but this appliance strips away the excess oil of deep-frying while delivering the best part of a classic baked potato: that crunchy skin! It’s not just convenient; it creates one of the best baked potatoes you will ever taste.
I used to rely on my microwave for a quick potato, but I always missed the crispy, oven-baked skin. Once I tried them in the air fryer, I was completely converted and have never gone back.
Cooking baked potatoes in an air fryer is quicker than an oven and yields a perfect result every time—crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, all without waiting for a big oven to preheat. Read on for all my tips for making the ultimate air fryer baked potato.
If you prefer a traditional oven method, check out this recipe for my favorite Classic Oven-Baked Potatoes. And for a crowd-pleasing dish, you can’t beat my Cheesy Loaded Potato Casserole!
Why Use the Air Fryer for Potatoes?
For me, the perfect baked potato must check three boxes:
- A delicious, crispy skin!
- A soft, fluffy interior!
- A shorter cook time than a conventional oven.
The air fryer also makes it incredibly easy to stuff your potato with toppings like cheese and bacon, then pop it back in for a minute or two to get everything hot and melted!
This air fryer method meets every single criterion. And it achieves all of this in less time than an oven. That’s a huge plus in my kitchen.
If you enjoy making potatoes in your air fryer, be sure to try these Crispy Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes!
Should I Peel the Potato?
Whether you’re making a baked potato for a simple lunch or as a side for a perfectly cooked steak, the big question is always the same: do you eat the skin?
I am 100% on team “eat the skin!” It’s crispy, salty, and delicious. I highly recommend leaving it on and enjoying it with the rest of the potato. Plus, it’s far less work to cook potatoes with the skin on, and I am all about no-fuss recipes.
What You Need
You only need four basic ingredients to achieve air fryer baked potato perfection. While the ingredients are simple, using good quality versions will yield the best results.
- Potatoes – Washed clean and patted completely dry.
- Oil – Avocado oil, olive oil, or canola oil will all work great.
- Salt – A coarse kosher or sea salt gives you that classic steakhouse-style salted crust.
- Pepper – Freshly ground black pepper provides the best flavor.
What are the best potatoes for baking?
Starchy potatoes like Russets or Idaho potatoes are the best choice. Their high starch content results in a light, fluffy interior. Other potato varieties, like waxy potatoes, can become dense or creamy and won’t hold their shape as well after baking.
What is the best oil to use?
Most common cooking oils are suitable for an air fryer. Choosing a high-quality avocado or olive oil can add some healthy fats if you’re looking for a nutritional boost. Vegetable oil, canola oil, or any high-smoke-point oil you have on hand will also work perfectly.
How to Bake Potatoes in an Air Fryer
Okay, let’s get to it. Here is how you can make the best-ever baked potatoes in your air fryer:
- Prep the potatoes. It is crucial to scrub the potatoes well to remove any dirt and then pat them completely dry before cooking.
- Add oil and season. Rub the potatoes with enough oil to create a thin, even coat. Sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring there is space between them for air to circulate. Do not overcrowd the basket.
- Cook until tender. Air fry the potatoes, flipping them over about halfway through the cooking time.
- Serve hot. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings. See the list below for some inspiration!
Topping Suggestions
Beyond making the perfect potato, the next best part is deciding what to put on it! Here are a few tasty ideas:
- Butter
- Chopped Chives
- Sour Cream
- Crispy Bacon – I make my bacon in the oven for easy cleanup!
- Steamed Broccoli
- Chili – This Hearty Texas-Style Chili is a perfect topping.
- Taco Meat – My Easy Taco Meat recipe is a family favorite.
- Pico de Gallo – Fresh, homemade Pico de Gallo adds a zesty kick.
- Shredded Cheese – Cheddar, Colby Jack, or even a pepper jack.
- Diced Red Onion
- Ranch Dressing – Don’t knock it ’til you try it; ranch is amazing on a baked potato!
- Pulled Meat – My Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken is a fantastic choice.
Can I Reheat Baked Potatoes in the Air Fryer?
Yes! The air fryer is perfect for reheating. If you have leftover potatoes, just place them back in the air fryer at 200°C (400°F) for 4 to 5 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.
Common Questions
Do I need to preheat my air fryer? Every model is a little different. I suggest following the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific air fryer, as some require preheating while others do not.
Can I start the potato in the microwave to speed things up? Definitely! This is a great time-saving hack I use often. Follow my instructions for a Quick Microwave Potato, but cook it for 1 minute less than the recipe calls for. Then, transfer the potato to the air fryer to finish for about 10 minutes, or until the skin is crisp and the center is fully cooked.
Do I have to poke holes in the potato? I don’t, but I tend to live on the edge. I recommend you don’t follow my risky example and go ahead and poke a few holes with a fork to be safe.
Storage Tips
- Storing Leftovers: Leftover baked potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
- Reheating: Reheat them in the air fryer, microwave, or in a 180°C (350°F) oven until warm.
- Can I freeze baked potatoes? I do not recommend freezing baked potatoes. The thawing process can make their texture watery and less fluffy. For the best results, always make them fresh.
