Air Fryer Frozen Potato Skins: Quick, Crispy, Delicious

Potato skins are a popular snack or appetiser, and they can be made easily in an air fryer. They are a great option when you are short on time and want to serve something that is universally loved. The air fryer ensures that the potato skins are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. They can be served as a snack, appetiser, or side dish.

How to make frozen potato skins in an air fryer

Ingredients and Equipment:

• Frozen potato skins
• Air fryer
• Tongs
• Serving plate
• Optional: cooking spray, extra toppings (e.g. shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, sour cream, chives, green onions, cilantro, parsley, meat crumbles, beans, or corn)

Method:

• Remove the desired number of potato skins from the freezer and leave them frozen until you are ready to cook.
• Place the potato skins into the air fryer basket or tray in a single layer. Make sure they have some space around them so the hot air can circulate.
• If desired, spray the potato skins with cooking spray to help them crisp up.
• Air fry the potato skins at 360-390°F for 5-9 minutes, until they are crisped to your liking.
• Remove the potato skins from the air fryer and add any extra toppings, if desired.
• Serve immediately while still hot and crispy.

Tips:

• You don't need to thaw the potato skins before air frying them.
• Preheat your air fryer for a couple of minutes beforehand, if necessary.
• Don't flip the potato skins during cooking.
• Keep an eye on them while they're cooking, as air fryers can vary and you don't want them to burn.
• If your potato skins aren't crispy enough, try air frying for an extra 2-3 minutes, or increasing the temperature by 20°F.
• If you're making a large batch, you may need to cook them in multiple batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer.

How long to cook frozen potato skins in an air fryer

Yes, you can cook frozen potato skins in an air fryer. This is a quick and easy way to make an appetizer for a Super Bowl party, New Year's Eve party, or any other get-together.

To cook frozen potato skins in an air fryer, you should preheat your air fryer to 360–370 °F (187 °C). Place the frozen potato skins in the air fryer basket in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the basket. Air fry for 5–9 minutes, or until the skins are crisped to your liking. If you are using the Instant Pot Air Fryer Lid accessory, Duo Crisp, or Pro Crisp, you can use the same timing and temperature.

If you are cooking a large batch, you may need to work in batches. You can reheat the first batches for about a minute at 400 °F if they cool down too much.

If your potato skins are not crispy, return them to the air fryer for another 2–3 minutes. If they still won't crisp up, increase the heat by 20 °F.

Tips for cooking frozen potato skins in an air fryer

• Don't thaw the potato skins before air frying them.
• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. You may be able to fit 5–6 frozen potato skins at a time.
• The first time you make this recipe, monitor the potato skins and check on them 2 minutes before the cooking time is up. Adjust the recipe as needed.
• If you are using a brand of frozen potato skins that does not include bacon, you can sprinkle some chopped cooked bacon on top after air frying.
• You shouldn't need to coat the air fryer basket with oil before cooking.

What temperature to cook frozen potato skins in an air fryer

Yes, you can cook frozen potato skins in an air fryer. It is a quick, easy, and ultra-satisfying snack that can be made in less than 10 minutes.

Steps to Cook Frozen Potato Skins in an Air Fryer:

• Remove the desired number of potato skins from the freezer and the package. It is best to keep them frozen until you are ready to cook.
• Place the potato skins into the air fryer basket or tray. Make sure they are in a single layer and not overcrowded. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you can fit around 5-6 potato skins at a time.
• Air fry the potato skins at 360-370°F for 5-6 minutes, or until they are crisped to your liking. If they are not crispy enough, you can air fry them for an additional 2-3 minutes or increase the temperature by 20°F.
• Remove the potato skins from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving platter.
• Add your desired toppings and garnishes. Popular options include sour cream, chives, green onions, parsley, cilantro, cheese, bacon bits, and ranch dressing.

Tips:

• Preheat your air fryer for a couple of minutes before adding the potato skins for more accurate and consistent cooking times.
• Do not thaw the potato skins before air frying.
• Avoid flipping the potato skins during the cooking process, as you may lose the fillings.
• Keep a close eye on the potato skins while they are cooking, as the cooking time may vary depending on the make and model of your air fryer.

What to serve with frozen potato skins

Potato skins are a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, snack, or even a meal. Here are some ideas for what to serve with frozen potato skins:

As an Appetizer

Frozen potato skins are a great choice for a quick and easy appetizer. They can be served as part of a party platter or appetizer tray, alongside other finger foods such as:

• Pizza rolls
• Pigs in a blanket
• Buffalo wings
• French fries
• Mini corn dogs
• Cheese curds
• Chicken wings

As a Snack

If you're looking for a satisfying snack, frozen potato skins can be enjoyed on their own or with various toppings and dips. Some topping ideas include:

• Sour cream
• Guacamole
• Green onions
• Chives
• Bacon bits
• Spicy sausage crumbles
• Pico de Gallo
• Cheese sauce
• Ranch dressing
• Horseradish sauce

As a Meal

To make frozen potato skins more substantial, you can load them up with additional ingredients and serve them as a meal. Try adding:

• Shredded buffalo chicken
• Southwestern vegetable mix
• Broccoli and cheese sauce
• Ground beef with taco seasoning
• Pulled pork

So, whether you're hosting a party, looking for a tasty snack, or wanting to whip up a quick meal, frozen potato skins are a versatile option that can be paired with a variety of dishes and toppings.

How to store leftover frozen potato skins

To store leftover frozen potato skins, you can either place them in an airtight container or wrap them in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. Make sure the potato skins have cooled down to room temperature before storing them, and be careful not to let them sit out for more than 2 hours to avoid any food safety issues. They should last for 3 to 5 days in the fridge.

Another option is to freeze the potato skins. After they have cooled completely, place them in the freezer, making sure they are not touching each other. Once they are frozen, transfer them to an airtight plastic bag or wrap them individually in aluminium foil. Frozen potato skins can be stored for up to 6 months.

When you are ready to reheat the potato skins, you can do so in the air fryer, oven, or microwave. For the best results, reheat them in the oven to maintain a crispy skin and fluffy interior. Place the potato skins on a baking sheet and heat in the oven for about 20 minutes.

Frequently asked questions