Air-Fryer Baked Potato: Quick, Crispy, And Delicious!

Baked potatoes are a classic comfort food and a family-friendly option, and cooking them in an air fryer is quicker and makes the skin crispier than baking them in an oven. Here's a guide on how to bake a potato in an air fryer, along with some tips and tricks to make the perfect fluffy spuds.

How long to cook a potato in an air fryer

The length of time it takes to cook a potato in an air fryer depends on the size of the potato and the number of potatoes being cooked. For example, a single potato will cook faster than three.

For a 7-ounce russet or Idaho potato, it will take 35 to 40 minutes at 400°F. Turn the potatoes over halfway through cooking. You will know the potatoes are done when you can easily insert a knife into their centers.

For medium-sized russet potatoes (about 12 ounces each), it takes 50 to 55 minutes to cook three of them in an air fryer at 400°F. For smaller potatoes (about 8 ounces each), it takes about 45 to 50 minutes at the same temperature.

If you are cooking just one potato, start checking on it about 10 minutes before the time suggested by your recipe.

One source suggests preheating the air fryer to 400°F and then cooking the potatoes for 40 to 60 minutes, or until they are tender and the skin is crisp. Another source suggests cooking the potatoes at 400°F for 30 minutes, flipping them, and then cooking for another 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are tender.

Do you need to pierce a potato before air frying?

Air frying potatoes is a convenient, quick, and healthy way of cooking potatoes. It is also a super easy process. However, there are some common mistakes that should be avoided when preparing potatoes in an air fryer. One of the frequently asked questions about air frying potatoes is whether you need to pierce a potato before air frying.

The answer is yes. You should pierce potatoes before air frying. The holes allow the steam to escape from the potatoes while cooking and help to prevent the potato from splitting. It is recommended to pierce each potato 3 to 4 times with a fork before cooking. This is especially important if you want to avoid the mess of cleaning up an exploded potato in your air fryer, oven, or microwave.

Should you wrap a potato in foil before air frying?

The answer to this question is a matter of personal preference. Some people swear by wrapping their potatoes in foil, while others say it is unnecessary. If you are aiming for a super-crispy skin, then it is best to avoid the foil, as this can make the skin soggy. However, if you are less concerned about the crispiness of the skin, then wrapping the potato in foil will not be an issue.

One of the main benefits of using an air fryer is that it allows hot air to circulate in a small, closed environment, cooking the potatoes evenly without the need for foil. This method also means you don't have to unwrap hot foil to check if the potato is cooked.

If you want to keep potatoes warm after cooking, you can wrap them in foil and place them on a plate. This will help keep the heat in without overcooking the potato.

How long should you cook a baked potato in an air fryer?

The cooking time for a baked potato in an air fryer depends on the size of the potato and how tender you want it to be. For a soft and fluffy texture, a 7-ounce russet or Idaho potato will take around 35 to 40 minutes at 400°F. For larger potatoes, such as a 12-ounce russet, it will take about 50 to 55 minutes at the same temperature. Smaller potatoes, around 8 ounces each, will take approximately 45 to 50 minutes.

It's important to note that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the specific air fryer model and the number of potatoes being cooked at once. When cooking multiple potatoes, it's recommended to leave a little space between them in the air fryer basket. Additionally, flipping the potatoes halfway through the cooking process ensures even cooking.

To check if the potatoes are done, insert a knife or a fork into the centre. If it goes in easily, the potatoes are ready. It's also important to let the potatoes rest for a few minutes after cooking to prevent burning your fingers and to ensure the remaining steam doesn't make the insides wet and gummy.

What are some good baked potato toppings?

Baked potatoes are a versatile dish that can be topped with almost anything. Here are some ideas for delicious toppings to elevate your baked potato:

Classic Toppings

A traditional baked potato is often topped with butter, salt, and pepper. For a more indulgent classic option, add sour cream, bacon, cheese, and chives. This combination is a perfect blend of salty, smoky, and tangy flavours. You can also add sliced green onions for an extra bite.

Creative Toppings

Get creative with your toppings and try something new! Here are some unique combinations to try:

• New York Bagel: smoked salmon, green onions, capers, dill, and sour cream.
• Tex Mex: guacamole, pico de gallo, sour cream, cheese, and crushed tortilla chips. Add some Mexican chorizo for an extra kick.
• BBQ: BBQ sauce, pulled pork or chicken, cheddar cheese, and green onions.
• French onions and mushrooms.
• Corn salsa and refried beans.
• Roasted tomatoes and pesto.
• Bolognese and parmesan.

Vegan Options

For vegan options, simply substitute butter with a vegan alternative, such as olive oil or vegan butter. You can also top your potato with sliced avocado, sautéed mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes.

Healthy Alternatives

If you're looking for healthier alternatives, try using Greek yoghurt instead of sour cream or butter. You can also load up on vegetables like broccoli, sliced green beans, or a tomato salad.

Final Thoughts

The possibilities for baked potato toppings are endless! Whether you stick to the classics or get creative, the key is to choose toppings that complement each other and enhance the flavour of the potato. So, get baking, and don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations!

Frequently asked questions