Crispy skin, fluffy center, and perfectly cooked every time
Air Fryer Baked Potatoes are hands-down the fastest and easiest way to get that classic steakhouse-style baked potato at home. The skin turns irresistibly crisp and salty, while the inside stays light, tender, and fluffy. Once you try baked potatoes in the air fryer, you may never go back to the oven again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy, golden skin with a soft, fluffy interior
- Ready faster than oven-baked potatoes
- Only 3 simple ingredients
- Perfect as a side dish or for a loaded baked potato bar
Air Fryer Baked Potato Recipe
My love for potatoes runs deep. Between my Ukrainian roots—where potatoes are a staple—and living in Idaho, the potato capital, I’ve cooked them every way imaginable. Baked potatoes are a family favorite, especially when paired with pan-seared steak or classic meatloaf.
The only downside? Oven-baked potatoes can take forever. That’s when I started using the air fryer—and the results are perfect every single time, in nearly half the time.
Ingredients
You only need a few pantry staples:
- Russet Potatoes (Idaho potatoes) – Best for baking, thanks to their thick skins and fluffy interiors
- Olive Oil – Helps the skin get beautifully crisp (cooking spray works too)
- Salt – Fine sea salt is ideal, but any salt you have will work
👉 Tip: Choose potatoes that are similar in size so they cook evenly.
How to Make Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
1. Prep the Potatoes
- Scrub the potatoes well under running water to remove dirt (the skin is the best part!).
- Dry thoroughly with a towel.
- Poke each potato 4–5 times with a fork to allow steam to escape during cooking.
2. Oil and Season
- Rub each potato lightly with olive oil, coating all sides.
- Sprinkle generously with salt.
- Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them for proper air circulation.
3. Air Fry
- Basket-style air fryer: Cook at 400°F (200°C)
- Toaster-style air fryer: Cook at 375°F (190°C)
Cook for 35–45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until a knife slides easily into the center.
Cooking time will vary depending on the size of your potatoes.
Pro Tip: Skip the Foil
There’s no need to wrap potatoes in foil. Foil traps steam, which softens the skin. Leaving them uncovered is the secret to that crispy exterior.
Air Fryer Baked Potato Time Chart
Use this as a general guide:
- 7 oz potatoes: ~35 minutes
- 8 oz potatoes: ~40 minutes
- 9 oz or larger: 45–50 minutes
If needed, add extra time in 3–5 minute increments until fully cooked.
How to Know When a Baked Potato Is Done
- Knife Test: A knife should slide easily into the center with no resistance
- Squeeze Test: Using oven mitts, gently squeeze the potato should give slightly
- Internal Temperature: 205°F–210°F (96°C–99°C) for perfectly fluffy potatoes
How to Cut Open a Baked Potato
For the best presentation and texture:
- Slice lengthwise across the top, without cutting all the way through or to the edges.
- Gently press the ends inward to fluff and open the center.
- Add butter and your favorite toppings while it’s hot.
Serving Ideas
- Butter, sour cream, and chives
- Shredded cheese and bacon bits
- Chili or broccoli and cheese
- Set up a baked potato bar for family dinners or parties
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 199 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Fat: 4 g
If you’re craving a perfectly baked potato with minimal effort and maximum flavor, this air fryer method is a must-try. Crispy skin, fluffy inside—every single time! 🥔✨
