Air-Fryer Jacket Potatoes: Quick, Crispy, And Delicious

Cooking jacket potatoes in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to achieve a crispy skin and fluffy inside. The air fryer can cut your cooking time in half compared to using an oven, and you don't need to wait for it to preheat. The key to a great air fryer jacket potato is to ensure the skin is crisp, so it's important to use oil and salt, and not to overcrowd the air fryer basket so that the skin has enough space to crisp up.

Characteristics and Values Table for Air Fryer Jacket Potatoes

Potato preparation: cleaning, pricking and coating

Preparing your potatoes before cooking is an important step in the process of making jacket potatoes in an air fryer. Here is a step-by-step guide to cleaning, pricking, and coating your potatoes:

Cleaning

Start by selecting the right type of potatoes. Russet potatoes, also known as Idaho potatoes, are recommended for their delicious skins and fluffy texture. However, you can also use yellow potatoes, sweet potatoes, or any other variety you prefer. Once you have chosen your potatoes, give them a good scrub under running water to remove any dirt or residue.

Pricking

After cleaning and drying the potatoes, use a fork or skewer to prick them all over. This step is crucial as it allows steam to escape during the cooking process, preventing the potatoes from bursting. Make sure to prick the potatoes several times to ensure adequate ventilation.

Coating

Now it's time to coat your potatoes with a delicious blend of oil and seasonings. You can use olive oil, avocado oil, or any cooking oil of your choice. Simply drizzle or rub the oil onto the potatoes, ensuring they are evenly coated. Next, sprinkle sea salt generously over the oiled potatoes. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder, pepper, or parsley to enhance the flavour. Using your hands, rub the potatoes to ensure an even coating of oil and seasonings.

By following these steps, your potatoes will be prepared and ready for the air fryer. Remember to adjust the cooking time and temperature according to the size and type of potatoes you are using. Enjoy your perfectly cooked jacket potatoes with a crispy skin and fluffy interior!

Air fryer settings and cooking time

The cooking time for jacket potatoes in an air fryer will vary depending on the size of the potato and the type of air fryer you are using. It is recommended to cook jacket potatoes in an air fryer for 25 to 55 minutes.

First, prepare the potatoes by poking holes in them with a fork or skewer. This is an important step to ensure that the potatoes do not burst while cooking. Then, rub the potatoes with oil and season with salt. Some recipes also suggest adding pepper, garlic powder, and parsley.

Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded, as this will affect the cooking time and crispiness of the potatoes. For a basket-style air fryer, cook at 400˚F, and for a toaster-style air fryer, reduce the temperature to 375˚F. Flip the potatoes halfway through the cooking time to ensure an even crisp.

To check if the potatoes are done, insert a knife or skewer into the centre of the potato. If it goes in easily, the potato is ready. You can also use an oven mitt to gently squeeze the potato; it should give slightly when it is done. The internal temperature of the potato should reach 205˚F to 210˚F.

If your potatoes are not done after the initial cooking time, return them to the air fryer and cook in 3-5 minute intervals until they are tender.

How to check if the potato is cooked

The best way to check if your jacket potato is cooked is to poke it with a skewer or a sharp knife. The potato is done when the skewer or knife can be easily inserted into the centre of the potato. If the skewer or knife meets resistance, the potato needs to be cooked for a little longer.

You can also use an oven mitt to squeeze the potato gently. The potato is cooked when it gives slightly under the mitt.

Another way to check is to use a thermometer. The internal temperature of the potato should be between 205˚F to 210˚F when it is cooked.

If you are cooking several potatoes, be sure to test each one, as they may have different cooking times depending on their size and thickness.

How to store and reheat

To store leftover jacket potatoes, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Place the cooked and cooled potatoes in freezer-safe bags and store them in the freezer.

To reheat, you can use a microwave, oven, or air fryer. If you're using an air fryer, cook the potatoes at 400°F until heated through. You can also cook frozen jacket potatoes in the air fryer. Place the frozen potatoes in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are spaced out. Cook for 15 minutes at 390°F (200°C). If the potatoes are still cold in the center, cook them for an additional 5 minutes.

Topping ideas

Baked potatoes are a versatile dish, and the toppings can be customised to suit different dietary requirements and taste preferences. Here are some topping ideas for your air-fried jacket potatoes:

Classic Toppings

A traditional way to top a jacket potato is with butter, sour cream, and chives. You can also add chopped scallions, black pepper, and a sprinkle of parsley. This combination provides a creamy, tangy, and savoury flavour profile.

Cheesy Options

For cheese lovers, there are several options to consider. A simple yet delicious choice is cheddar cheese, which can be shredded or sliced. You can also opt for cottage cheese, which has a creamier texture. Another idea is to combine cheese with baked beans, chilli, or tuna salad (warm tuna with mayonnaise and sweetcorn). If you're feeling adventurous, try a combination of cheese, sliced green onions, and black pepper.

Hearty Combinations

For a more substantial meal, consider these hearty topping combinations:

• Baked beans with cheese: This classic pairing is a favourite among many and provides a good balance of protein and carbohydrates.
• Chilli and cheese: This spicy and savoury option can be made with vegetarian, beef, or chicken chilli, depending on your preference.
• Tuna mayo: Mix tuna with mayonnaise, add loads of black pepper, and a bit of chopped scallion for a tangy and savoury treat.
• Leftover pot cooking: Use leftover curry, bolognese, or chilli as a topping. Reheat your leftovers and spoon them generously over your jacket potato for a quick and easy meal.

Gourmet Upgrades

If you want to elevate your jacket potato, try these gourmet-inspired toppings:

• New York Bagel: Top your potato with smoky and salty salmon, green onions, capers, dill, and a spoonful of sour cream.
• Tex Mex: Combine cool guacamole, hot pico de Gallo, sour cream, and cheese. For extra crunch, add crushed tortilla chips, and if you're feeling adventurous, include some Mexican chorizo.
• Stir-fry chilli beef: This energising topping boasts a high supply of iron, vitamin C, and fibre. It's a great option for a post-workout meal.

Sweet Potato Variations

If you're using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes, here are some topping suggestions:

• Coronation chickpeas: This tasty topper provides a unique flavour profile.
• Ginger and spinach: This combination makes for a great budget-friendly and low-calorie option that's packed with vitamin C and flavour.
• Pesto chicken: Shred leftover cooked chicken and mix it with pesto and soft cheese. Fill your sweet potato and top it with pine nuts and fresh basil.

Remember, the beauty of a jacket potato is its versatility, so feel free to experiment with different toppings and find your favourite combinations!

Frequently asked questions