Air Fryer Jacket Potatoes: How Long Until They're Done?

Cooking jacket potatoes in an air fryer is a quick and energy-efficient way to achieve a crispy 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, it takes around 40 to 50 minutes to cook jacket potatoes in an air fryer.

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. These varieties tend to crisp up nicely and have creamy or fluffy interiors.

Step 2: Washing and Cutting

Wash the potatoes thoroughly, especially if you plan to leave the skin on, as it contains nutrients. Cut the potatoes into uniform, bite-sized pieces, such as halves or 1-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking. If using larger potatoes, pierce them all over with a fork to allow steam to escape.

Step 3: Seasoning

In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with extra-virgin olive oil or another oil of your choice. Ensure the potatoes are well-coated. Then, season generously with your choice of spices and herbs. Popular options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, and parsley. You can also get creative with other seasonings like Cajun, Mexican, or Greek blends.

Step 4: Air Frying

Place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to ensure maximum crispiness. Preheat the air fryer to 380-400°F (195-200°C) if desired, but it's not necessary. Roast the potatoes for about 10 minutes, then flip or shake the basket to ensure even cooking. Continue cooking for another 8-10 minutes or until the potatoes are golden, crispy, and tender.

Step 5: Serving

Serve your air-fried potatoes hot as a side dish or appetizer. You can garnish them with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro and offer dips such as ranch dressing, guacamole, or sour cream. Enjoy the crispy, fluffy potatoes!

Air fryer temperature and time

The ideal temperature to cook jacket potatoes in an air fryer is 400°F (200°C). Depending on the size of the potato, it will take 35 to 50 minutes to cook. For example, a 7-ounce russet or Idaho potato will take 35 to 40 minutes at 400°F. You should turn the potatoes over halfway through the cooking time.

It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the size of the potato and the model of the air fryer. To check if the potatoes are done, insert a sharp knife into the centre; if it goes through easily, the potatoes are ready. Additionally, you can pierce the potatoes with a fork to test for doneness; the potato is cooked if the fork slides in easily.

To speed up the cooking time, you can microwave the potatoes for 5 to 10 minutes before transferring them to the air fryer. Alternatively, you can semi-cook the potatoes in the microwave for a shorter time and then transfer them to the air fryer to finish cooking and achieve a crispy texture.

How to serve jacket potatoes

Jacket potatoes are a versatile dish that can be served as a side or a main course. Here are some tips and ideas on how to serve jacket potatoes, using an air fryer, to make them crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.

Ingredients and Preparation:

First, gather your ingredients. You will need baking potatoes, such as Russets, King Edward, or Maris Piper. You can also use sweet potatoes or any other variety. For the best results, ensure your potatoes are all of a similar size for even cooking. Other ingredients include oil with a high smoke point, such as avocado, olive, or sunflower oil, and salt and pepper for seasoning.

Before cooking, scrub the potatoes and pat them dry. Prick the potatoes several times with a fork, then coat them in oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder or dried parsley.

Cooking Instructions:

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket and cook for 30-50 minutes, depending on the size of the potatoes. For smaller potatoes, check after 30 minutes and adjust cooking time accordingly. For larger potatoes, you may need the full 45-50 minutes. Flip the potatoes halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking. You can test if the potatoes are done by inserting a sharp knife or fork; if it goes through easily, they are ready.

Serving Suggestions:

Once the potatoes are cooked, carefully remove them from the air fryer and place them on plates. Use a tea towel to protect your hands as you slice each potato in half lengthwise. Use a fork to fluff up the insides, and then add a knob of butter to each potato.

Jacket potatoes can be served with various toppings, such as:

• Butter
• Sour cream
• Greek yogurt
• Pulled pork or chicken
• Cheddar cheese
• Green onions
• Bacon bits
• Chives
• Broccoli
• Jalapenos
• Tuna mayo
• Baked beans with grated cheese

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

How to test if a jacket potato is cooked

There are several ways to test if your jacket potato is cooked. Firstly, the cooking time will depend on the size of the potato and the model of the air fryer, so it's important to keep an eye on your potatoes as they cook. A general rule of thumb is that jacket potatoes will take around 35-50 minutes to cook in an air fryer at 200°C.

One way to test if your potato is cooked is to use a knife or a fork. If the knife or fork slides easily into the centre of the potato, then it is likely cooked. If the potato is hard, it may need a little longer. You can also use a meat or instant-read thermometer to test the internal temperature of the potato. The ideal temperature range for a cooked potato is between 208-211°Fahrenheit or 99°Celsius.

Another way to test is to use your senses. A fully baked potato will have a distinctive aroma, and you may see steam escaping from it. You can also try to gently squeeze the potato – if it feels soft, it is likely cooked. The skin of the potato should also be crisp and have a dried-out texture. If the skin is still soft, the potato may need a little longer.

Top tips for making jacket potatoes in an air fryer

Preparation

First, select your potatoes. Large floury potatoes, such as Maris Piper, King Edward or Russet, are best. Give them a good scrub, as you'll want to eat the crispy skin!

Then, prick the potatoes all over with a fork. This will stop them from bursting in the air fryer. Give them a rub of oil, too—this helps the salt stick to the skin and makes it go crispy. Avocado, olive, or sunflower oil are all good choices, or you can use a cooking spray.

Finally, add salt and pepper to taste. You can also add other seasonings, like garlic powder, to the outside of the potatoes.

Cooking

Arrange the potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Set the air fryer to 200C and cook for 40-50 minutes, depending on the size of the potatoes. Check the potatoes after 20 minutes, and turn them over if they are browning too quickly. You can also microwave the potatoes for 5-10 minutes before air frying to speed up the cooking process.

Serving

Split the potatoes open and add a knob of butter. You can also add other toppings, like sour cream, cheese, beans, or tuna mayo. Enjoy!

Frequently asked questions