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The Ultimate Crispy Skin, Fluffy Inside Air Fryer Baked Potato Recipe (Ready in Under 40 Minutes)

Two perfectly cooked air fryer baked potato halves showing a crispy skin and fluffy white interior.

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Make perfect air fryer baked potatoes with crispy skin and a fluffy center quickly. This hands-off method is faster than the oven and ideal for weeknight meals or holiday sides.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium Russet potatoes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon coarse salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Scrub the potatoes well under running water. Dry them completely with a paper towel.
  2. Use a fork to pierce each potato 6 to 8 times deeply on all sides. This allows steam to escape.
  3. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, coarse salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  4. Rub the oil mixture evenly over the entire surface of each potato, focusing on getting salt into the pierced holes.
  5. Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
  6. Place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the basket; work in batches if necessary.
  7. Air fry for 30 to 35 minutes. Flip the potatoes halfway through the cooking time (around the 15-minute mark).
  8. Check for doneness by inserting a fork or sharp knife into the center; it should slide in with no resistance. The skin should look visibly crisp.
  9. Remove from the air fryer. Slice open the top of each potato lengthwise and gently squeeze the sides to fluff up the interior. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • Russet potatoes work best for achieving that classic fluffy interior and crispy skin.
  • For extra crispiness, you can lightly brush the potatoes with oil again halfway through cooking.
  • This recipe is a fast alternative to oven baking, freeing up your oven for other dishes, especially during holiday cooking.
  • Top with cheddar cheese, bacon bits, sour cream, and chives for loaded baked potatoes air fryer style.

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