Crispy Air Fryer Baked Potato (Fluffy Inside!)

🕒 Time

• Prep: 5–10 minutes

• Cook: 35–45 minutes

• Total: ~45 minutes

🍽 Servings

1 potato per person

🛒 Ingredients

• 1 large Russet potato (best for fluffy texture)

• 1–1½ tsp olive oil

• ½ tsp coarse salt (sea salt or kosher)

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• 1 tbsp butter

• 1 tbsp chopped green onions (optional)

Optional toppings:

• Sour cream

• Shredded cheese

• Crispy bacon bits

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Prep the Potato

1. Scrub the potato clean and dry thoroughly.

2. Use a fork to poke 6–8 holes around it (prevents bursting).

3. Rub with olive oil until fully coated.

4. Sprinkle generously with coarse salt and a little pepper.

The oil + salt is what creates that crispy skin.

2️⃣ Air Fry

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.

2. Place potato directly in basket (no foil).

3. Air fry for 35–45 minutes, flipping halfway.

Cooking time depends on size:

• Medium: ~35 minutes

• Large: ~40–45 minutes

It’s done when:

• Skin is dark and crispy

• Knife slides in easily

• Internal temp is about 205°F (96°C) for perfect fluffiness

3️⃣ Fluff & Finish

1. Slice open lengthwise.

2. Gently squeeze the ends to open it up.

3. Fluff inside with a fork.

4. Add butter while hot so it melts into the potato.

5. Sprinkle with black pepper and green onions.

🔥 Extra Crispy Tip

For even crispier skin:

• After cooking, brush lightly with more oil

• Air fry 3–5 extra minutes

🧈 Flavor Variations

Garlic Butter

Mix softened butter with:

• ½ tsp roasted garlic

• Pinch salt

• Parsley

Loaded Baked Potato

Add:

• Cheddar cheese

• Sour cream

• Bacon

• Chives

Healthy Version

Top with:

• Greek yogurt

• Steamed broccoli

• A sprinkle of Parmesan

🥔 Pro Tips

• Always use Russet potatoes for best results.

• Don’t wrap in foil — it steams instead of crisping.

• Let rest 3–5 minutes before cutting for best texture.