Twice-Baked Potatoes: Air Fryer Magic

Twice-baked potatoes are a delicious, creamy, and cheesy side dish that can be made in an air fryer. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a perfect addition to any meal. The potatoes are filled with mashed potatoes, sour cream, and cheese, and topped with bacon and chives. The air fryer also allows you to reheat twice-baked potatoes quickly and easily. This recipe is highly customizable, and you can add various ingredients like broccoli, sausage, or other vegetables to suit your taste.

How to prepare potatoes for air frying

Preparing potatoes for air frying is a simple process, but there are a few key steps to follow to ensure the best results. Here is a detailed guide on how to prepare potatoes for air frying, specifically for twice-baked potatoes:

Step 1: Selecting and Cleaning the Potatoes

Start by choosing the right type of potatoes. Russet potatoes or large baking potatoes are ideal for this recipe. Select potatoes that are similar in size to ensure even cooking. Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt.

Step 2: Drying and Pricking

Once the potatoes are clean, use a paper towel to pat them dry. This step is important as it helps the seasoning stick to the potatoes and promotes even cooking. Using a fork, pierce each potato 10 to 12 times. This step allows steam to escape during the cooking process, preventing the potatoes from bursting.

Step 3: Seasoning and Coating

Drizzle olive oil over the potatoes and use a brush or your hands to coat the outer skin evenly. Alternatively, you can use cooking spray for a lighter coating. Season the potatoes with salt and pepper. You can also add other seasonings like seasoned salt or garlic powder at this stage to enhance the flavour.

Step 4: Air Frying (First Round)

Preheat your air fryer to 400°Fahrenheit. Place the seasoned potatoes directly into the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Air fry for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Depending on your air fryer model, you may need to flip the potatoes halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Cooling and Scooping

Once the potatoes are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool down for a few minutes. This step is important as it makes the potatoes easier to handle. Cut each potato in half lengthwise and use a spoon or scoop to carefully remove the baked potato filling, leaving about a quarter of an inch of potato inside the skin. Place the scooped-out potato into a medium-sized bowl.

At this point, you can also add additional ingredients like butter, milk, sour cream, cream cheese, and shredded cheese to the bowl. Mash the potato mixture with a fork or potato masher until it reaches a creamy and smooth consistency. You can also use a hand mixer for a fluffier texture.

Step 6: Stuffing and Topping

Scoop the mashed potato mixture back into the potato skins, filling them evenly. You can also add a sprinkle of cheese and other toppings like chopped bacon, chives, or green onions at this stage.

Step 7: Air Frying (Second Round)

Return the filled potatoes to the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not stacked or overlapped. Air fry at 350°F for an additional 2 to 10 minutes, depending on your desired level of crispness and melting of the cheese. Keep a close eye on the potatoes during this final step to prevent overcooking.

And that's it! Your twice-baked potatoes are now ready to be served. You can garnish them with additional toppings like sour cream, chives, or bacon bits before serving. Enjoy your delicious and crispy side dish!

Air fryer temperature and time

The temperature and time for cooking twice-baked potatoes in an air fryer vary depending on the stage of the process and the recipe you are following.

Initial Bake

For the initial bake, the air fryer should be set to between 390°F and 400°F. The cooking time for this stage is around 35–45 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Second Bake

For the second bake, the temperature should be reduced to 350°F. The cooking time for this stage is around 5–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bacon is crispy.

Reheating

To reheat twice-baked potatoes, cook them in the air fryer at 350°F for 5–10 minutes, or until they are warmed through.

It is important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the air fryer model and the size of the potatoes. It is recommended to use a food thermometer to check the doneness of the potatoes, as they should be in the 190°F to 200°F range when fully cooked.

Preparing the filling

Once the potatoes are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool down slightly so you can handle them comfortably. Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C). While the oven is heating up again, cut each potato lengthwise and carefully scoop out the flesh into a bowl, leaving a thin layer of potato intact inside the skins to ensure they hold their shape. At this stage, you can also season the potato skins with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper if desired.

In the bowl, mash the potato flesh with a fork or potato masher until smooth. Add butter, sour cream, milk, and season with salt and pepper to taste. You can also experiment with additional seasonings like garlic powder, chives, or bacon bits to enhance the flavor. Mix everything together until well combined and adjust the seasoning as needed. For an extra smooth filling, you can use a hand mixer, but be careful not to overmix as it may affect the texture.

Now you're ready to fill the potato skins. Generously spoon the mixture back into the potato skins, piling it slightly above the rim. You can also sprinkle some shredded cheese on top of the filling or add a pinch of paprika for extra color and flavor. Place the filled potatoes in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are secure and won't tip over during cooking. Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the filling is heated through and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.

Filling the potato skins

Once your potatoes are baked, you can start the process of filling the potato skins. First, cut the potatoes in half lengthwise. Then, use a spoon or scoop to remove the baked potato filling, leaving about a quarter of an inch of potato in the potato skin. Place the potato filling in a medium-sized bowl.

Next, add your desired mix-ins to the bowl. Common ingredients include butter, milk, sour cream, cream cheese, seasoned salt, and shredded cheese. You can also add meat, such as bacon or sausage, or vegetables like broccoli, green onions, or garlic. Mix the ingredients together until they are well combined and have a creamy texture.

Now, it's time to fill the potato skins. Scoop the mixture back into the potato skins, making sure they are evenly filled. You can top the potatoes with additional cheese, bacon bits, or chives if desired. Place the filled potatoes back into the air fryer basket without stacking or overlapping them.

Finally, air fry the filled potatoes for about 5 minutes at 350-400°F. This step will melt the cheese and crisp up the bacon. Your twice-baked potatoes are now ready to be served!

Reheating twice-baked potatoes

Firstly, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) or 375°F (190°C). While the air fryer is preheating, remove any foil from the potatoes and, if desired, lightly spray the potato skins with cooking spray for an extra crispy finish. Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving enough space between them to ensure proper air circulation.

Slide the basket into the air fryer and cook for 4-8 minutes at 350°F, or 10-15 minutes at 375°F, depending on the size of your potatoes. Check the potatoes and add more time if needed. The potatoes are ready when they are heated through and the skin is crispy.

You can also reheat frozen twice-baked potatoes in the air fryer. To do this, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before air frying for 25-27 minutes at 320°F. If the potatoes are still icy in the center, increase the time by 5-10 minutes.

Twice-baked potatoes can also be reheated in the oven or microwave. In the oven, preheat to 350°F and place the potatoes in an oven-safe dish, covered loosely with foil. Heat for 15-20 minutes, checking and re-covering to prevent drying out. Add an extra 5-10 minutes if needed. In the microwave, place the potatoes on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 60-90 seconds per potato, checking and stirring periodically. Add an extra 30 seconds if needed.

Enjoy your delicious, crispy twice-baked potatoes!

Frequently asked questions