Air Fryer Baked Potato

Air fryer baked potatoes have all the traditional flavors you love – melted butter, sour cream, and chives – all nestled into a crispy, air-fried potato. You’re going to love it!

Air fried baked potato with butter and chives on a dinner plate.

Imagine bringing out a platter of air fryer baked potatoes, their skins golden and crisp, a tantalizing aroma filling your kitchen. As you slice one open, the steam wafts up, carrying a hint of salt and butter. The sour cream dollops on beautifully, melting into the fluffy potato, while the fresh chives add a pop of color and a sharp contrast in flavor. With each mouthful, you can taste the perfect balance of textures and flavors. It’s not just a baked potato – it’s a gourmet experience right in your own home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, you certainly can. However, the Russet potato is a favorite for baking due to its high starch content which leads to a fluffier interior when cooked. If you use other types of potatoes, the texture and cooking times may vary.

How do I know if the potatoes are done?

The best way to check if the potatoes are cooked is to use a fork. If it inserts easily into the thickest part of the potato, it’s done. The skin should also be crispy and golden-brown.

What if I want to make more than four potatoes?

You can definitely make more than four potatoes. However, to ensure even cooking, do not overcrowd the air fryer. You may need to cook the potatoes in multiple batches.

Can I prepare the potatoes in advance?

While these potatoes are best served fresh, you can certainly do some advance preparation. You can scrub and prick the potatoes ahead of time. When you’re ready to cook, just add the oil and salt, and they’re ready for the air fryer.

Do I need to wrap the potatoes in aluminum foil before cooking them in the air fryer?

No, you don’t need to wrap the potatoes in foil for this recipe. In fact, one of the advantages of using an air fryer is that it circulates hot air around the food for even cooking. Wrapping the potatoes in foil can prevent the skin from getting crispy.

How does the size of the potatoes affect cooking time?

The size of the potatoes can significantly impact the cooking time. If you’re using smaller potatoes, you’ll need to reduce the cooking time as they’ll cook faster than larger ones. Conversely, larger potatoes will require more time to cook fully. Keep an eye on your potatoes and check for doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the potato. The fork should go in easily when the potato is fully cooked.

Serving Suggestions

An air fryer baked potato can be a delicious side or the star of the show. Serve them alongside a juicy steak or grilled fish, or load them up with additional toppings to create a satisfying vegetarian main course.

Alternate Cooking Methods

Instant Pot Instructions: 

  1. Scrub the dirt off of each potato. Use a fork to poke 8 to 10 sets of holes in the skins of each potato for ventilation. Rub with a small drizzle of cooking oil. Season generously with salt.
  2. Place potatoes on a microwave safe plate, and microwave for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. 
  3. Pressure cook on high for 12-18 minutes (based on the size of the potato).

Microwave Instructions: 

  1. Scrub the dirt off of each potato. Use a fork to poke 8 to 10 sets of holes in the skins of each potato for ventilation. Rub with a small drizzle of cooking oil. Season generously with salt.
  2. Place potatoes on a microwave safe plate, and microwave for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. 
  3. If potatoes are still firm, continue cooking for another 5 minutes or until tender.
Overhead view of a baked potato in an air fryer basket.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Air fryer baked potatoes are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be refrigerated and reheated. Store any leftovers in a covered container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy again, reheat them in the air fryer or oven until warmed through.

Related Recipes

If you like this recipe, you may be interested in these other delicious potato recipes:

Air Fryer Baked Potato
Servings

4 Potatoes

Air fried baked potato with butter and chives on a dinner plate.

Air fryer baked potatoes have all the traditional flavors you love – melted butter, sour cream, and chives – all nestled into a crispy, air-fried potato. You’re going to love it!

Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes

Ingredients
  • 4 large russet potatoes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1-2 teaspoons Salt
  • 4 tablespoons butter melted
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup chives finely chopped
  • Salt and Pepper to taste

Instructions
  • Preheat your Air Fryer to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
  • Thoroughly scrub each potato to remove any dirt. Prick each potato 8 to 10 times with a fork for ventilation.
  • Drizzle each potato with olive oil, then generously season with Salt.
  • Position the potatoes in the air fryer, ensuring adequate space around each for airflow. Cook for 20 minutes.
  • After 20 minutes, rotate the potatoes and continue to cook until tender, approximately 20 minutes more.
  • Once cooked, carefully remove the potatoes from the air fryer.
  • Slice each potato in half lengthwise.
  • Spoon 1 tablespoon of melted butter into the center of each potato half. Top with sour cream, chives, and season with additional Salt and Pepper, as desired.
Optional Toppings:

  • Broccoli
  • Sautéed peppers
  • Jalapeño slices
  • Crispy fried onions
  • Shredded meats
  • Chili
  • Nacho cheese sauce

Oven Instructions: 

  1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
  2. Thoroughly scrub each potato to remove dirt. Using a fork, poke 8 to 10 sets of holes in the skins of each potato for ventilation.
  3. Rub each potato with a small amount of olive oil, then season generously with salt. Wrap each potato tightly in aluminum foil.
  4. Place the wrapped potatoes on a baking sheet to catch any juices that may leak out. Bake for 1 hour, or until the potatoes are soft.
  5. Carefully remove the potatoes from the oven and unwrap. Slice each potato in half lengthwise.
  6. Add 1 tablespoon of melted butter to the inside of each potato. Top with sour cream, chives, and any other desired toppings. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Instant Pot Instructions: 

  1. Scrub the dirt off of each potato. Use a fork to poke 8 to 10 sets of holes in the skins of each potato for ventilation. Rub with a small drizzle of cooking oil. Season generously with salt.
  2. Place potatoes on a microwave safe plate, and microwave for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  3. Pressure cook on high for 12-18 minutes (based on the size of the potato).

Microwave Instructions: 

  1. Scrub the dirt off of each potato. Use a fork to poke 8 to 10 sets of holes in the skins of each potato for ventilation. Rub with a small drizzle of cooking oil. Season generously with salt.
  2. Place potatoes on a microwave safe plate, and microwave for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  3. If potatoes are still firm, continue cooking for another 5 minutes or until tender.

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 511kcal | Carbohydrates: 68g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 0.5g | Cholesterol: 47mg | Sodium: 699mg | Potassium: 1586mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 641IU | Vitamin C: 23mg | Calcium: 83mg | Iron: 3mg

Air Fryer Baked Potato