Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
Crispy skin, fluffy inside, and ready in half the time of the oven — this is the only way I make baked potatoes now.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through one of them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep the potatoes. Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly, then pat them completely dry with a paper towel.
- Season. Pierce each potato a few times with a fork. Rub each potato with olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with salt and pepper.
- Air fry. Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between them for air to circulate. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the skin is crispy and a fork easily pierces through the center.
- Check for doneness. The potatoes are done when the internal temperature reaches about 210°F (99°C), or when they feel soft when gently squeezed (use a towel to protect your hand).
- Serve. Slice open, fluff the inside with a fork, and top with your favorite toppings — butter, sour cream, cheese, bacon bits, and chives are always a hit.
Crispy skin, fluffy inside, and ready in half the time of the oven — this is the only way I make baked potatoes now.
If you’ve never made a baked potato in the air fryer, you’re missing out on the best method yet. This Air Fryer Baked Potatoes recipe gives you that perfectly crispy, seasoned skin with a soft, fluffy inside — all in about 40 minutes, with almost no effort.
Whether you’re serving these as a simple side dish or loading them up with all your favorite toppings, this method beats the oven every single time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Faster than the oven — ready in about 40 minutes instead of an hour+
- Perfectly crispy skin — something the microwave can never give you
- Minimal ingredients — just potatoes, oil, and salt
- Naturally low-carb friendly base — great for topping with lean proteins and veggies
Ingredients
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional toppings: butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, chopped chives
Instructions
- Prep the potatoes. Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly, then pat them completely dry with a paper towel.
- Season. Pierce each potato a few times with a fork. Rub each potato with olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with salt and pepper.
- Air fry. Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between them for air to circulate. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the skin is crispy and a fork easily pierces through the center.
- Check for doneness. The potatoes are done when the internal temperature reaches about 210°F (99°C), or when they feel soft when gently squeezed (use a towel to protect your hand).
- Serve. Slice open, fluff the inside with a fork, and top with your favorite toppings — butter, sour cream, cheese, bacon bits, and chives are always a hit.
You Might Also Like
- Loaded Baked Potato Soup
- Cheesy Bacon Ranch Chicken Bake
- Cheesy Baked Asparagus Gratin
Tips for Success
- Drying the potatoes thoroughly before oiling them is key to getting that crispy skin.
- Don’t skip flipping halfway through — it helps the skin crisp up evenly on all sides.
- For extra-large potatoes, add 5-10 extra minutes of cook time.
- Leftover potatoes reheat well in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring back the crispy skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
It’s not required, but preheating for 3-5 minutes can help the skin crisp up slightly faster.
Can I make more than 4 potatoes at once?
Yes, just make sure not to overcrowd the basket — cook in batches if needed so the air can circulate properly.
Can I use a different type of potato?
Russet potatoes work best for that classic fluffy interior, but Yukon Gold potatoes are a great alternative.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-8 minutes to restore the crispy skin.
More Recipes You'll Love
All DinnerNo-Bake Chocolate Éclair Cake (Just 3 Ingredients!)
The easiest dessert you’ll ever make — no oven, no baking skills required, just 3 simple ingredients.
Cheesy Bacon Ranch Chicken Bake
A creamy, cheesy, crowd-pleasing dinner that comes together in one dish — and disappears just as fast.
Cherry Delight (No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Dessert)
The creamy, no-bake dessert that disappears first at every potluck — and takes just 15 minutes of prep.
Cream Cheese-Filled Cinnamon Rolls 🥐🍬
If you’re searching for the ultimate homemade breakfast treat, these Cream Cheese-Filled Cinnamon Rolls are guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Heaven in a Bowl No-Bake Dessert 🍓🍫☁️
If you’re looking for the ultimate crowd-pleasing dessert, this Heaven in a Bowl No-Bake Dessert is exactly what you need.
Banana Bread Cookies 🍌🧁
If you love the cozy flavor of homemade banana bread but want something quicker and easier to enjoy, these Banana Bread Cookies are the perfect treat.
Honey Ham Sliders 🍯🥪
If you’re looking for the perfect party sandwich that’s buttery, cheesy, and packed with sweet and savory flavor…
Chicken Pot Pie Casserole 🥧🍗
If you’re craving the cozy flavors of a classic pot pie without the hassle of making a homemade crust, this Chicken Pot Pie Casserole is the perfect solution.
