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I make these air fryer baked potatoes all the time, because they turn out perfect every single time! Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and ready for all your favorite toppings.

“This is the easiest way to make baked potatoes! They are so light and fluffy, with a crispy skin.”
-Becky
This is one of the easiest side dishes you can make in the air fryer. No foil, no flipping between oven temperatures, just perfectly cooked potatoes with a crispy skin and soft, fluffy center. These baked potatoes are great on their own or fully loaded for a hearty meal.
I love making these and then serving all of the toppings on the side so everyone can custom make them to their tastes, which is perfect for picky eaters. They are also light enough to serve with just a salad, but hearty enough to pair with a steak too.
Craving more easy side dishes? These Air Fryer Home Fries, Air Fryer Stuffed Mini Peppers, or these Air Fryer Scalloped Potatoes are all delicious options. Pair them with these Baked Potatoes, which all make great sides to meals like this Air Fryer Filet Mignon or Air Fryer Lobster Tails.
Table of Contents
Ingredients You Will Need
- Medium russet potatoes – Scrubbed clean and patted dry
- Olive oil – Helps create a crispy, golden skin
- Salt and black pepper – For simple, classic flavor
A full list of ingredients is in the recipe card below.
Optional Seasoning Ideas
- Garlic powder
- Smoked paprika
- Seasoned salt or herb blends
- Chili powder or Cajun seasoning for a spicy twist
Potato Topping Ideas
Make them your own with classic or creative toppings:
- Butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, and chopped chives
- Crumbled bacon or turkey bacon
- Steamed broccoli and cheese
- Leftover chili or taco meat
- Ranch dressing, buffalo sauce, or BBQ drizzle
- Avocado, salsa, or guacamole for a Tex-Mex twist
How to Make Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
- Wash and scrub potatoes before air frying, then pat dry with a paper towel. Pierce potatoes with fork, to pierce at least 8-10 holes. Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F for about 3-5 minutes.
- Rub each potato with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper (or any additional seasonings you like).
- Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, with space between them for airflow. Air fry for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the skin is crispy and a fork easily pierces through the center.
- Let cool for a few minutes, slice open, fluff the inside with a fork, and add your favorite toppings.
Expert Tips
- Preheat your air fryer – This helps get the skin crispy right from the start.
- Choose medium russet potatoes – They have the best texture and cook evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket – Leave room around each potato for even air circulation.
- Flip halfway through – It helps cook both sides evenly and prevents soggy spots.
Leftover Potato Ideas
Got extras? Try one of these tasty ideas:
- Twice Baked Potatoes – Scoop out the insides, mix with toppings, and bake again.
- Breakfast Hash – Cube and fry with eggs, peppers, and sausage.
- Potato Skins – Crisp up the shells and fill with cheese and bacon.
- Mashed Potato Cakes – Mash and pan fry for a quick savory snack.
- Potato Soup – Dice and stir into a creamy soup base.
Air Fryer Baked Potato FAQs
Russet potatoes are best because of their starchy texture. Yukon golds or sweet potatoes work too but may need a slight time adjustment.
Nope! The air fryer crisps the skin perfectly without foil. Plus, foil can block airflow and slow down cooking time.
Let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Reheat in the air fryer at 375 degrees F for 5–6 minutes for a crispy skin, or microwave for 1–2 minutes if you’re short on time.
More Air Fryer Side Dishes
Side Dishes
Air Fryer Stuffed Mini Peppers
Frozen Foods
Air Fryer Frozen Shrimp Tempura
Appetizers
Air Fryer Nachos
If you enjoyed this recipe, please consider leaving a STAR ⭐️ RATING in the COMMENTS 📝 SECTION below.
Air Fryer Baked Potato
Equipment
- 1 Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 4 Russet Potatoes, medium size
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Wash and scrub potatoes before air frying, then pat dry with a paper towel.
- Pierce potatoes with fork, to pierce at least 8-10 holes.
- Place the potatoes in the Air Fryer basket and gently brush entire potato with oil to coat the outer skin. Sprinkle the potatoes with salt and pepper.
- Place the seasoned potato to basket to the Air Fryer and air fry at 400ºF for 40-45 minutes cook time. Flip potatoes at least one time during cooking process.
- Use oven mitts to remove from basket, as they will be very hot. Serve with a piece of butter, or your choice of toppings.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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Thank you! So glad you liked it!
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Amazing..
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