Air Fryer baked potato is amazing, super easy to make and so delicious!
These air fryer baked potatoes are ready in a fraction of the time it takes to heat and use a conventional oven. They crisp up on the outside while staying fluffy inside, and you can top them any way you like. Follow the simple steps below and enjoy a reliable, fast baked potato every time.
Quick And Easy Air Fryer Baked Potatoes Recipe
If you own an air fryer, baked potatoes are one of the quickest, most convenient side dishes you can make. Air fryers preheat fast and, because the cooking chamber is compact, food cooks more quickly than in a full-size oven. While your oven handles other dishes, the air fryer can sit on the counter and have potatoes ready in under an hour.
What Is The Best Potato For Baking?
For classic baked potatoes choose varieties that are high in starch for the best texture—light, fluffy interiors and crisp skins. Top choices include:
- Russet
- Yukon Gold
- Idaho
- King Edward
These potatoes also work well for homemade fries or mashed potatoes.
What You Need For This Recipe
Gather the following simple ingredients before you start:
- Russet potatoes (or another high-starch variety)
- Olive oil or cooking spray
- Bacon bits (optional)
- Cheese (cheddar or your favorite)
- Garlic powder (optional)
- Salt
The exact measurements are listed in the recipe card in the instructions section below.
How To Cook Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
Follow these straightforward steps for perfectly baked potatoes in the air fryer.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Scrub the potatoes clean and pat them dry with a towel or paper towel.
- Brush each potato with olive oil or spray with cooking spray to help crisp the skin.
- Season with salt and a light sprinkle of garlic powder, if desired.
- Place potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd—up to 4 medium potatoes at a time works well. They should not touch or be stacked.
- Cook for 35–45 minutes, checking doneness periodically. Rotate with tongs after about 20 minutes so they brown evenly.
- Check doneness by piercing with a fork; if it slides in easily the potato is done. If not, continue cooking in 5-minute increments and check again.
- Slice each potato open and add your favorite toppings.
The Best Baked Potatoes Toppings To Add
Potatoes are a blank canvas—try one or combine a few of these popular toppings:
- Butter
- Sour cream
- Cheddar cheese
- Chives or scallions
- Bacon bits or turkey bits
- Jalapeños for heat
- Salt and pepper
- Black beans and Mexican cheese for a Southwestern twist
- Bell peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor
Do You Have To Wrap Potatoes In Foil For Baked Potatoes?
No—do not wrap potatoes in foil when cooking them in an air fryer. Foil traps steam and yields a softer, steamed texture rather than the desired crisp skin and fluffy interior. Leave them unwrapped for the best results.
Can You Make Air Fryer Baked Potatoes Ahead Of Time?
Yes. Let baked potatoes cool completely, do not add toppings, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the air fryer for best texture (see reheating instructions below).
How Long To Cook Baked Potatoes In Air Fryer?
After preheating to 400°F (200°C), plan on about 35–45 minutes for medium-sized potatoes. Cooking time varies with potato size and air fryer model. Always test for doneness with a fork and extend cooking time in 5-minute increments if needed. Avoid overcrowding the basket so air can circulate around each potato.
How To Reheat Baked Potato In The Air Fryer
To reheat chilled baked potatoes and restore crisp skin:
- Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the cold potatoes in the basket in a single layer.
- Heat for about 10 minutes, turning halfway through.
- If not hot enough, continue in 3–5 minute increments until warmed through.
- Remove and add any desired toppings before serving.
Serve Baked Potatoes With
Baked potatoes pair well with many mains and salads. They make a great side for grilled meats, stews, sandwiches, and more. Use your favorite mains to round out the meal—steaks, roasted chicken, or a hearty burger all complement baked potatoes nicely.
Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
4
5 minutes
40 minutes
45 minutes
These Air Fryer Baked Potatoes are fast and delicious. Put them in the air fryer and they are done in no time. Load them with your favorite toppings and serve as a side dish.
Ingredients
- 4 Russet potatoes
- ⅓ cup bacon bits
- ⅓ cup cheese
- 2 teaspoons olive oil or cooking spray
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
- Scrub the potatoes and pat dry with a clean towel or paper towel.
- Brush with olive oil or spray with cooking spray, then sprinkle with salt and garlic powder if using.
- Place potatoes in the basket and cook 35–45 minutes, depending on size.
- Rotate with tongs around 20 minutes to brown evenly.
- Test by piercing with a fork; continue cooking in 5-minute increments if not done.
- Slice open and top with bacon bits, cheese, sour cream, chives, or your preferred toppings.
Notes
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; potatoes need space for hot air to circulate.
- Cook time varies with potato size and air fryer model—check for doneness rather than relying on time alone.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4
Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 276
Total Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 783mg
Carbohydrates: 41g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 10g
Please note: Nutrition information is provided as an estimate and may not be completely accurate.