These crispy air fryer baked potatoes are perfect for a quick and tasty side dish! They come out golden and fluffy inside, just how we love them.
I like to top mine with a sprinkle of salt and a dollop of sour cream. Who can resist that combo? These potatoes are a hit every time! 
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are perfect for baking due to their starchy texture. If you can’t find russet potatoes, you can use Yukon Gold potatoes instead. They are creamy and will still give you a nice result, though they won’t be quite as fluffy.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps crisp the potato skins beautifully. If you’re looking for alternatives, vegetable oil or avocado oil work well too. They have similar properties and will not change the flavor significantly.
Kosher Salt: This type of salt is great for baking because its coarse texture sticks well to the potatoes. If you don’t have kosher salt, regular table salt will do, but use about half as much since it’s finer.
Butter: Definitely a tasty addition to serve with your baked potatoes! If you’re vegan or dairy-free, try using margarine or a plant-based butter. It enhances the flavor while keeping it suitable for your diet.
How Can You Ensure Perfectly Crispy Potatoes in the Air Fryer?
For the crispiest baked potatoes, follow these steps carefully. First, preheating your air fryer is key as it helps the skin get crispy right from the start. Next, don’t forget to prick the potatoes to allow steam to escape during cooking.
- Wash and scrub the potatoes well to remove dirt, and dry them thoroughly. Moisture will prevent crispiness.
- Rub the potatoes generously with olive oil and season them well with salt and pepper. This adds flavor and promotes a crispy skin.
- Make sure to space the potatoes in the air fryer basket—too crowded and they won’t cook evenly.
Flip them halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. When done, the outside should be crispy while the inside is soft—check with a fork for that perfect texture!
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Baked Potatoes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Butter, for serving (optional)
- Sour cream, green onions, or other toppings, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and 35-40 minutes to cook, plus a few minutes to cool before serving. In total, you’ll need about 45 minutes to enjoy your Crispy Air Fryer Baked Potatoes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
First, plug in your air fryer and set the temperature to 400°F (200°C). Let it preheat for about 5 minutes. This step will help make your potatoes nice and crispy!
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
While the air fryer is heating, wash your russet potatoes under cold running water. Make sure to scrub off any dirt. Once clean, use a towel to pat them dry. This helps the oil and seasonings stick better!
3. Season the Potatoes:
Using a fork, prick each potato several times. This allows steam to escape while they cook. Next, rub each potato with olive oil, making sure they’re coated well. Sprinkle kosher salt and black pepper evenly over each potato for delicious flavor!
4. Air Fry the Potatoes:
Carefully place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they’re not overcrowded; this helps them cook evenly. Air fry for about 35-40 minutes. Remember to flip the potatoes halfway through so they cook thoroughly on both sides. They’re ready when they’re crispy outside and soft inside—check doneness by inserting a fork.
5. Serve:
Once they’re cooked, use tongs to carefully remove the potatoes from the air fryer. Let them cool for a few minutes before cutting a slit down the middle of each potato. Add a pat of butter and your choice of toppings like sour cream or green onions. Enjoy this delightful dish!
Enjoy your Crispy Air Fryer Baked Potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are ideal for that fluffy interior and crispy skin, you can use Yukon Gold or sweet potatoes as alternatives. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly, so check for doneness a few minutes earlier.
How Do I Store Leftover Baked Potatoes?
Store any leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain that crispy texture.
Can I Make These Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the potatoes in advance! Season and prick them as instructed, then wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, simply air fry them as directed!
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
The possibilities are endless! Besides butter and sour cream, you can top your baked potatoes with shredded cheese, bacon bits, chives, chili, or even a drizzle of ranch dressing for added flavor.
