Air Fryer Baked Potato (Crispy Skin, Fluffy Inside)

Perfectly crispy on the outside and soft, fluffy inside — faster than the oven and just as delicious.

Serves: 2–4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 35–45 minutes

🛒 Ingredients

• 2–4 medium or large russet potatoes

• 1–2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper (optional)

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

🔪 Preparation

1️⃣ Wash & Dry
Scrub potatoes thoroughly and dry completely (dry skin = crispier skin).

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

3️⃣ Oil & Season
Rub each potato with olive oil.
Sprinkle generously with salt (and pepper/garlic powder if using).

🔥 Air Frying Instructions

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

2️⃣ Place potatoes in basket in a single layer (don’t overcrowd).

3️⃣ Cook at 400°F (200°C) for:

• 35–40 minutes (medium potatoes)

• 40–45 minutes (large potatoes)

Flip halfway through cooking.

✅ Check for Doneness

• Insert a knife or fork — it should slide in easily.

• Internal temp should reach 205–210°F (96–99°C) for perfect fluffiness.

If needed, cook 3–5 more minutes.

🧈 Finish for Maximum Fluff

1. Slice open immediately after cooking.

2. Gently squeeze ends to fluff interior.

3. Add butter while hot.

4. Season inside with a pinch of salt.

🧀 Topping Ideas

Classic:

• Butter

• Sour cream

• Chives

• Shredded cheddar

Loaded:

• Bacon bits

• Green onions

• Broccoli

• Ranch drizzle

Healthy:

• Greek yogurt

• Salsa

• Avocado

• Cottage cheese

⭐ Pro Tips

✔ Use russet potatoes for best texture
✔ Don’t wrap in foil (you’ll lose crispiness)
✔ For extra crispy skin: spray lightly with oil halfway through
✔ Want ultra-crispy? Cook 5 extra minutes at 400°F

🔄 Make It a Meal

Top with:

• Chili

• Pulled pork

• BBQ chicken

• Taco meat