Experience the beloved baked potato in a whole new light with the air fryer! This method delivers a perfectly crisp skin and fluffy interior in a fraction of the time compared to traditional oven baking. Enjoy a healthier preparation that utilizes minimal oil while achieving maximum flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 Russet or Idaho Potatoes (large)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- Kosher Salt and freshly ground Black Pepper (to taste)
- Optional: Garlic powder (½ teaspoon), Dried parsley (½ teaspoon)
- Butter (4 tablespoons, for serving)
Instructions
1. Prep the Potatoes: Wash your potatoes thoroughly under running water. Pat them dry completely with a paper towel. This ensures even crisping of the skin.
2. Poke and Season: Using a fork, pierce the potatoes all over about 8-10 times. This allows steam to escape and prevents bursting. Rub the potatoes with olive oil, then season generously with salt and pepper. If using, add garlic powder and dried parsley as well.
3. Preheat and Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Once hot, carefully place the potatoes in a single layer inside the basket. Don’t overcrowd them, as this will affect air circulation and crispness.
4. Cook and Flip: Cook the potatoes for 30 minutes. Then, using tongs, carefully flip them over.
5. Cook Until Done: Continue air frying for an additional 5-15 minutes, or until a knife easily pierces through the center of the thickest potato. The total cooking time can vary depending on the size of your potatoes.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the potatoes from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before cutting them open. Fluff the insides with a fork and add your favorite toppings like butter, sour cream, cheese, or chili.
Tips
- For extra crispy skin, you can preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes before adding the potatoes.
- If your air fryer is small and you can’t fit all the potatoes in a single layer, cook them in batches.
- You can also add other seasonings to your potatoes, such as rosemary, paprika, or cayenne pepper.