The Fastest Air Fryer Baked Potato

October 18, 2025 by youssef

1. Prep the Potatoes:

Scrub the potatoes thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt. Pat them completely dry with a kitchen towel.
Using a fork, prick each potato 10-12 times all over. This is a crucial step as it allows steam to escape and prevents the potatoes from bursting in the air fryer.

2. Season the Skin:

Rub each potato lightly with the olive oil, ensuring they are coated on all sides.
Sprinkle the salted oiled potatoes generously with kosher salt, rolling them to coat evenly. This will create a delicious, crispy skin.

3. Air Fry:

Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket, leaving a little space between them for air circulation.
Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 35-45 minutes.
The cooking time will depend on the size of your potatoes. They are done when the skin is deep golden brown and crispy, and they feel tender when squeezed (use tongs and an oven mitt, as they will be very hot!). You can also insert a fork or skewer; it should slide into the center with little to no resistance.

4. Serve:

Carefully remove the potatoes from the air fryer. Let them rest for 2-3 minutes before handling.
Slice each potato open lengthwise and fluff the insides with a fork.
Top with your favorite toppings like butter, sour cream, chives, and black pepper. Serve immediately.

Size Matters: For the most consistent results, try to use potatoes that are similar in size.
Don’t Skip the Oil: The oil is key for a super crispy skin. Without it, the skin can become tough and leathery.
No Preheating Necessary: You typically don’t need to preheat the air fryer for baked potatoes. Just put them in and start the timer.
For an Even Faster Cook (Softer Skin): For a slightly softer skin but a faster cook time, you can par-cook the potatoes in the microwave for 4-5 minutes before oiling, salting, and air frying for 15-20 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
Customize: Before air frying, try rubbing the oiled potatoes with other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika for extra flavor.

Enjoy your incredibly fast, crispy, and fluffy baked potatoes