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Air Fryer Baked Potatoes: The Ultimate Guide to Crispy Skin and Fluffy Perfection

Air Fryer Baked Potatoes: The Ultimate Guide to Crispy Skin and Fluffy Perfection

Baked potatoes are a classic comfort food, and making them in the air fryer is quick and easy. This method gives you a crispy, savory skin on the outside and a soft, fluffy center on the inside—perfect as a side dish or a simple meal with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Air Fryer Baked Potatoes

  • 4 russet potatoes (68 ounces each)

  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil (such as vegetable or canola oil)

  • Coarse sea salt, to taste

Instructions

    • Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

    • Wash the potatoes thoroughly, using a vegetable scrubber to remove dirt. Pat them dry with paper towels.

    • Pierce the potatoes several times with a fork to allow steam to escape during cooking.

    • Season the potatoes: Rub them all over with the oil, then sprinkle generously with coarse sea salt.

    • Air fry: Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Work in batches if needed. Cook for 30 minutes.

    • Check for doneness: Insert a fork into the center. If it doesn’t slide in easily, return the potatoes to the air fryer and cook in 5-minute increments until tender.

    • Slice and fluff: Carefully remove the potatoes. Cut a slit lengthwise (do not cut all the way through). Gently press the ends to open and release steam. Fluff the inside with a fork.

    • Serve warm with your favorite toppings and enjoy!

Notes

  • Choose similar-sized potatoes so they cook evenly.

  • Don’t skip the fork holes—they prevent the potatoes from bursting.

  • For extra crispy skin, add a little more salt after cooking.

  • Topping ideas: butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, chives, bacon bits, or Greek yogurt.