Hey, Kitchies! Let’s talk about the perfect baked potato—crispy, golden-brown skin with a soft, steamy, pillowy interior. Sounds dreamy, right? Well, what if I told you that you don’t need to wait an hour in the oven to get that? Enter the Air Fryer Baked Potato—your new go-to for perfectly cooked potatoes in half the time!

I remember the first time I tried making a baked potato in my air fryer. I was skeptical—could it really get that crispy skin and fluffy inside without drying out? Spoiler alert: It did. And it was a game-changer. No more waiting forever for my oven to preheat, no more foil wrapping, and definitely no more microwaved potatoes with sad, rubbery skins.

This method is foolproof, faster, and easier. Whether you’re making them as a simple side, stuffing them with your favorite toppings, or turning them into fully loaded baked potato dreams, these air fryer baked potatoes will never let you down. Let’s get crispy!

Resume of the Recipe in Todd Wilbur’s Writing Style:

Want restaurant-quality baked potatoes without the long wait? This Air Fryer Baked Potato recipe delivers a crispy, golden-brown skin and a soft, fluffy interior—all in under 40 minutes!

Just rub your potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, pop them in the air fryer, and let the magic happen. No foil, no fuss, just perfectly cooked potatoes every time. Slice them open, add butter, cheese, sour cream, or bacon, and watch them disappear from your plate.

Exciting Story:

In my house, baked potatoes are more than just a side dish—they’re a weekly ritual. But let’s be honest, waiting an hour for them to cook in the oven? Not ideal. One night, in a rush to get dinner on the table, I decided to test out the air fryer. And let me tell you—best decision ever.

My husband took a bite and immediately asked, “How did you get the skin so crispy?” My kids? They turned their potatoes into mini volcanoes, stuffing them with butter and cheese until they overflowed. Now, I don’t even think about turning on the oven—I just grab my air fryer, press a button, and get ready for potato perfection.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Baked Potato

Selling Points:

Crispy Skin & Fluffy Inside – Just like a steakhouse baked potato!
Faster Than the Oven – Ready in 35-40 minutes instead of an hour.
No Foil Needed – Just oil, salt, and air fryer magic.
Endless Topping Options – Butter, sour cream, cheese, bacon—you name it!
Perfect Every Time – No more guessing or uneven cooking.

Cuisine: American

Tips for the Best Air Fryer Baked Potatoes

Pick the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes work best for that classic fluffy interior and crispy skin.
Don’t Crowd the Air Fryer: Leave space between the potatoes so the air circulates evenly.
Want Extra Crispy Skin? Add a sprinkle of garlic powder or paprika before air frying.
Short on Time? Slice the potatoes in half before air frying for a quicker cook time.
Reheating Leftovers? Pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 5 minutes to crisp them up again!

Substitutions and Variations:

Sweet Potatoes: Swap russets for sweet potatoes for a naturally sweeter twist!
Garlic Herb Potatoes: Mix olive oil with garlic powder, rosemary, and thyme before coating the potatoes.
Cheesy Baked Potatoes: Add shredded cheddar or parmesan in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Tex-Mex Style: Load with salsa, guacamole, and taco-seasoned beef.
Loaded Breakfast Potatoes: Top with scrambled eggs, bacon, and chives.

Make a Healthier Version:

Lower Fat: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
Lower Carb: Try air-fried cauliflower steaks as a potato alternative.
More Fiber: Leave the skin on for extra nutrients and fiber.

Closing in Todd Wilbur’s Style:

And just like that, you’ve mastered the easiest, crispiest, and most delicious Air Fryer Baked Potato. No oven, no waiting—just perfect potatoes in half the time. Whether you’re serving them as a side, loading them up with toppings, or meal prepping for the week, these potatoes never disappoint. Now grab that butter, sprinkle on some cheese, and enjoy!

Relevant Categories:

Air Fryer Recipes
Side Dishes
Easy Weeknight Meals
Comfort Food
Gluten-Free

Frequently Asked Questions:

Do I need to wrap the potatoes in foil?
Nope! The air fryer crisps up the skin beautifully without foil.
Can I cook multiple potatoes at once?
Yes! Just make sure they aren’t touching each other for even airflow.
What size potatoes work best?
Medium russet potatoes cook the best in 35-40 minutes.
Do I have to poke holes in the potatoes?
Yes, this helps steam escape and prevents bursting.
Can I reheat baked potatoes in the air fryer?
Absolutely! Air fry at 350°F for 5 minutes for crispy skin again.
What toppings go well with baked potatoes?
Butter, sour cream, cheese, bacon, chives, salsa, guacamole—you name it!
Can I use Yukon Gold potatoes instead?
Yes, but they won’t be as fluffy as russets.
How do I make them extra crispy?
Rub with olive oil and a sprinkle of salt, then air fry 5 extra minutes.
Can I freeze air fryer baked potatoes?
Yes! Let them cool, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.
What’s the best way to serve these?
As a side dish, stuffed with toppings, or even as a meal on its own!