Air Fryer Baked Potatoes: Quick, Crispy, And Delicious!

Cooking jacket potatoes in an air fryer is a quick and energy-efficient way to achieve a crisp skin with a fluffy centre. The cooking time will depend on the size of the potato and the model of the air fryer, but generally, a large potato will take around 40-50 minutes to cook at 200C/400F. To speed up the cooking time, you can microwave the potatoes for 5-10 minutes before air frying.

How to prepare potatoes for air frying

Preparing potatoes for air frying is a simple process. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Choosing the Right Potatoes

Select the right type of potatoes for air frying. Some popular options include Russet, Yukon Gold, Yellow, Red, and Baby Potatoes (new potatoes). Each variety will give a slightly different result, with Russets being known for their crispness and golden colour, while Yukon Golds or Yellow Potatoes have a deeper golden colour and a slightly softer crisp.

Step 2: Washing and Cutting

Wash the potatoes thoroughly, especially if you plan to leave the skin on for added crispness. Cut the potatoes into uniform, bite-sized pieces. For baby potatoes, cut them in half; for larger potatoes, cut them into 1-inch pieces. Cutting the potatoes into similar sizes will ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Seasoning and Coating

In a large bowl, toss the potato pieces with your desired seasonings and coatings. You can use a variety of seasonings like Italian seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add a small amount of oil (such as olive oil) to help the seasonings stick and promote crispness. You can also add other ingredients like shredded Parmesan cheese for extra flavour.

Step 4: Arrange in the Air Fryer

Place the seasoned potato pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. This arrangement ensures that the hot air circulates evenly around each piece. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the potatoes in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Step 5: Cooking Time and Temperature

Set the air fryer to the desired temperature, typically between 380-400°F (195-200°C). Cook the potatoes for about 20 minutes, flipping or shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The cooking time may vary depending on the size and type of potatoes, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Step 6: Serving

Once the potatoes are fork-tender and crispy on the outside, they are ready to serve! You can garnish them with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro and serve them with a variety of dips or toppings. Enjoy your perfectly air-fried potatoes as a side dish or a tasty snack!

Air fryer temperature and time

The ideal temperature to bake a jacket potato in an air fryer is 200 °C or 400 °F. The time it takes to cook will depend on the size of the potato and the model of the air fryer. A large potato will take around 40-50 minutes to cook, but a smaller potato may take as little as 20 minutes. It is important to check the potatoes regularly to ensure they are cooking evenly and do not burn.

To speed up the cooking time, you can first microwave the potatoes on high for 8-10 minutes and then transfer them to the air fryer. Checking after 15-20 minutes, they should be ready in 30-40 minutes.

When cooking, the potatoes should be arranged in a single layer in the air fryer basket. It is also important to prick the potatoes with a fork before cooking to allow steam to escape. This will prevent them from bursting open during cooking.

You should also coat the potatoes in oil before cooking to help achieve a crispy skin. Avocado oil, olive oil, or even melted beef dripping are recommended for their high smoke points. The oil should be rubbed into thesection of the potato and can be applied with a pastry brush if the potatoes are hot. The potatoes can then be seasoned with salt and pepper, or even garlic powder and parsley, before being placed in the air fryer.

The potatoes are ready when a sharp knife or fork can be easily inserted into the centre. The skin should be crisp, and the inside should be tender and fluffy.

How to serve air fryer jacket potatoes

Air fryer jacket potatoes are a great, quick meal option with a crisp skin and fluffy centre. They are versatile and can be served as a main or side dish.

Preparation

First, select your potatoes. You want a large, floury potato, such as a Maris Piper, King Edward, or Russet. Give them a good scrub, as you'll want to eat the skin. Then, prick the potatoes with a fork several times—this allows the steam to escape while cooking. Next, coat the potatoes in oil, such as olive oil or avocado oil, and season with salt and pepper. You can also add other seasonings, like garlic powder and dried parsley.

Cooking

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket and cook for 35-50 minutes, depending on the size of the potatoes. Turn the potatoes over halfway through the cooking time. You'll know they're done when you can easily insert a knife into the centre.

Serving

Once cooked, carefully slice each potato in half lengthwise. Use a fork to fluff up the insides, then add your desired toppings. Here are some topping ideas:

• Butter
• Sour cream or Greek yoghurt
• Cheese
• Chives or other fresh herbs
• BBQ sauce
• Pulled pork or chicken
• Bacon
• Tuna mayo
• Baked beans

You can also serve jacket potatoes as a side dish with steak, pork, chicken, or a salad.

Potato toppings

Baked potatoes in an air fryer are quick, easy, and delicious. The cooking time depends on the size of the potato, but generally, it takes around 35 to 50 minutes at 200°C (400°F) to achieve a crisp skin with a fluffy centre. Now, let's talk about the fun part: toppings!

The beauty of a baked potato is its versatility. You can get creative and experiment with various toppings to suit your taste buds. Here are some mouth-watering topping ideas to elevate your air-fried potatoes:

Cheese, Beans, and Bacon:

This classic combination is a favourite for a reason. Load your potato with baked beans, crispy bacon bits, and a generous amount of grated cheese. For an extra kick, add some chopped red onions or chives.

Butter and Sour Cream:

Keep it simple yet indulgent with a generous dollop of butter and sour cream. Finish it off with a sprinkle of salt and pepper for a creamy, savoury delight.

Chilli Con Carne:

Spice things up with chilli con carne. If you're short on time, you can use leftover chilli or opt for a veggie chilli for a meat-free option. Don't forget to add some grated cheese on top!

Tuna Mayo:

Although it may sound unusual to some, tuna mayo is a beloved topping. Mix canned tuna with mayonnaise, sweetcorn, and perhaps some red onion or cucumber. It's a refreshing yet satisfying combination.

Bolognese:

Oozing with a rich meat sauce and topped with tasty Parmesan cheese, a Bolognese jacket potato is the ultimate comfort food. It's like having a warm hug in a spud.

Broad Bean, Mint, and Feta:

For a refreshing twist, try a combination of broad beans, mint, and crumbled feta cheese. It's a flavourful and healthy option that will leave you feeling satisfied.

BBQ:

Go for a BBQ theme with BBQ sauce, pulled pork or chicken, melted cheddar cheese, and green onions. It's a messy but delicious option for a fun family dinner.

Greek Yogurt and Chives:

For a lighter option, top your potato with Greek yogurt and freshly chopped chives. It's tangy, creamy, and pairs well with the fluffy potato.

Chicken Tikka Mayo:

Combine chicken tikka with mayonnaise, grated cheese, and perhaps a sprinkle of spices. It's a flavour-packed option that will tantalise your taste buds.

Coronation Chicken:

Coronation chicken is a classic British sandwich filling, but it also works wonderfully as a jacket potato topping. It's a curried chicken salad with mayonnaise, sultanas, and sometimes toasted almonds. It's a unique blend of sweet and savoury flavours.

Haggis and Butter:

For a Scottish twist, try haggis on your jacket potato. It's a traditional Scottish dish made with sheep's heart, liver, and lungs, and it pairs surprisingly well with the fluffy potato.

Prawn Cocktail:

Load your potato with prawns in a tangy cocktail sauce, and don't forget a generous sprinkle of black pepper. It's a unique and tasty option for seafood lovers.

Broccoli and Cheese:

For a vegetarian option, try a combination of steamed broccoli florets and melted cheese. You can also add some chopped onions or garlic for an extra punch of flavour.

The possibilities for jacket potato toppings are endless. Get creative, experiment with different combinations, and find your new favourite!

Air fryer vs oven

Size

Air fryers are countertop appliances that can usually cook one dish at a time, whereas ovens are full-sized appliances that can handle multiple dishes or larger portions.

Function

Air fryers rapidly circulate heated air to cook and crisp up a range of foods. Conventional, non-convection ovens use still air to cook food. Different types of ovens may offer various functions like broil, bake, and roast, and some even have an air fry mode.

Speed

Air fryers cook food faster than ovens. They also have a shorter preheating time.

Crispiness

Air fryers are known for producing crispier results than ovens, especially when it comes to fried foods like French fries, chicken nuggets, and breaded items. The rapid circulation of hot air in an air fryer helps create a crispy exterior on food.

Energy Efficiency

Air fryers are generally more energy-efficient than ovens since they cook food faster and use less energy.

Versatility

Ovens offer more versatility in terms of cooking functions and the variety of dishes that can be prepared simultaneously. Ovens are better suited for baking delicate items and recipes that call for liquid batters.

Cleanliness

Air fryers have a perforated basket that allows for all-around cooking and crisping of food. They are also easier to clean due to their smaller size and the fact that food is cooked in a basket rather than directly on a pan or rack.

Space and Temperature Considerations

Air fryers are more compact and don't heat up the surrounding space as much as ovens, making them ideal for smaller kitchens or warmer climates.

Cost

Air fryers are typically more affordable to purchase and operate than ovens due to their smaller size and energy efficiency.

Both air fryers and ovens have their advantages. Air fryers excel at producing crispier food with faster cooking times and greater energy efficiency. Ovens offer more versatility, capacity, and are better suited for certain types of baking. The best choice depends on your specific needs, the type of food you want to cook, and the available space and resources in your kitchen.

Frequently asked questions