About This Recipe
Air-fried baked potatoes are cooked entirely in an air fryer using circulating hot air. This method produces crispy skin and fluffy interiors without traditional oven baking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Faster cooking time compared to conventional oven baking
- Energy-efficient alternative to using a full-sized oven
- Consistent crispy skin texture
- Minimal hands-on preparation time
- Even cooking results with proper air circulation
Ingredients
- 2 medium russet potatoes (approx. 8 oz/225g each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Step by Step Instructions
- Thoroughly scrub potatoes under cold running water. Dry completely with paper towels.
- Poke each potato 8-10 times with a fork to create steam vents.
- Rub potatoes evenly with oil, then sprinkle salt over all surfaces.
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
- Place potatoes in air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring space between them.
- Cook for 35-45 minutes, flipping potatoes halfway through cooking time.
- Check doneness by inserting a fork – it should slide in easily with no resistance.
- Transfer potatoes to a plate using tongs. Rest for 5 minutes before serving.
FAQ
Can I use other potato varieties?Russet potatoes are recommended due to their high starch content and thick skin, which yields optimal texture.Why flip the potatoes halfway?Flipping ensures even exposure to heat circulation and prevents uneven cooking.Do I need to preheat the air fryer?Preheating is recommended for consistent cooking temperatures from the start.Can I cook more than two potatoes?Cook in batches to maintain proper air circulation. Overcrowding reduces crispiness.
You Must Know
- Dry potatoes thoroughly before oiling for maximum crispiness
- Potato size directly affects cooking time – adjust as needed
- Never skip the fork-piercing step to prevent steam explosions
- Air fryer models vary – check manufacturer’s instructions for capacity and settings
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate cooled leftovers in airtight containers for 3-5 days
- Reheat in air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-8 minutes to restore crispiness
- Do not freeze cooked potatoes – texture becomes grainy upon thawing
- Store toppings separately from plain potatoes for best results