Air Fryer Baked Potatoes: The Ultimate Guide to Crispy Skin and Fluffy Perfection
Air Fryer Baked Potatoes are an easy and comforting side dish that delivers big results with very little effort. The air fryer creates a perfectly crispy, savory skin while keeping the inside fluffy, soft, and steamy. This method is faster than oven baking and works beautifully for busy weeknights or simple meals.
Ingredients
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4 russet potatoes (6–8 ounces each)
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1 tablespoon neutral oil (such as canola or avocado oil)
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Coarse sea salt, to taste
Instructions
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Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
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Rinse the potatoes thoroughly and scrub off any dirt. Pat them completely dry with paper towels.
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Use a fork to poke holes all over each potato to allow steam to escape during cooking.
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Rub the potatoes evenly with the oil, then sprinkle with coarse sea salt on all sides.
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Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed so they are not overcrowded.
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Air fry for 30 minutes, turning once halfway through if your air fryer heats unevenly.
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Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the center. If it doesn’t slide in easily, return the potatoes to the air fryer and cook for an additional 5 minutes, then check again.
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Once tender, remove the potatoes and place them on a cutting board.
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Slice a shallow cut lengthwise down the center of each potato (do not cut all the way through). Gently press the ends to open and release steam.
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Fluff the inside with a fork, add your favorite toppings, and serve warm.
Notes
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Dry potatoes well before oiling to ensure crispy skin.
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Don’t skip the fork holes—they prevent the potatoes from bursting.
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Use russet potatoes for the fluffiest interior.
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For extra crisp skin, lightly spray the potatoes with oil halfway through cooking.
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Popular toppings include butter, sour cream, cheese, chives, or Greek yogurt for a lighter option.