Are you looking for tips on how to cook baked potatoes in an air fryer? You’re in the right place! In this article, we’ll show you how to create a deliciously simple meal with minimal effort using an air fryer.
This article will show you a simple step-by-step guide to cooking your potatoes to perfection every time.
From selecting the right type of potato to learning how long and at what temperature to cook them, we’ll show you how easy it can be to whip up a batch of perfectly cooked potatoes in an air fryer.
So grab some spuds, and let’s get started!
Preparing The Baked Potatoes Before Cooking In Air Fryer
When selecting potatoes for an air fryer, there are a few key varieties to keep in mind that are particularly suited to baking.
Russet potatoes, Yukon Gold potatoes, and Red Bliss potatoes are the most popular choices as they have high starch content, which makes them ideal for frying.
They will come out crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Waxy potatoes such as New Potatoes or Fingerlings are also great for achieving a roasted potato texture, as they hold their shape better when cooked in an air fryer.
Before placing the potatoes in the air fryer, proper preparation is essential.
Start by scrubbing each spud well with a brush under running water until all dirt is removed.
Pierce each one several times with a fork so that steam can escape during cooking.
Toss each potato in the oil of your choice before sprinkling generously with salt.
Finally, place the potatoes into the air fryer basket or tray, ensuring they are spaced apart for optimal cooking.
See also: How To Cook A Whole Chicken In Air Fryer?
How To Cook Baked Potatoes In An Air Fryer
Cooking Temperature & Time
The key to getting perfectly cooked baked potatoes every time lies in correctly setting both temperature and cooking time. Too low temperatures will result in soggy spuds, whereas too high temperatures may burn them.
For best results, set your air fryer at 375-400°F (190-200°C) depending on how crispy you’d like the skin to be, then adjust accordingly after trying once or twice.
As far as cook time goes, larger potatoes such as Russets should take anywhere from 25-35 minutes, while smaller ones such as Fingerlings should only need 15-20 minutes.
It’s also worth turning over halfway through cooking to ensure even browning on both sides of your spud.
See also: How To Cook A Sweet Potato In Air Fryer?
Check Doneness Carefully
This step requires extra attention; don’t let those beautiful golden skins fool you. Check that each potato is fully cooked by inserting a paring knife into its center.
If there’s no resistance, it means it’s done! Also, check for any signs of burning around the edges using higher temperatures.
If you are still working, but your skin looks very dark already, turn down the heat slightly next time round so everything cooks evenly without burning outside.
Let them rest. Once finished, remove from air fryer and place onto plate or tray lined with paper towels allowing hot steam from insides to escape slowly.
This prevents any moisture buildup, making them soggy rather than crispy.
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Serving Suggestions
There are many ways to serve your baked potatoes. There is no right or wrong. Everyone has different tastes. The suggestion below is what we recommend.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream, chives, diced bacon, and shredded cheese on top.
- Make loaded baked potatoes by topping them with chili, cheddar cheese, and green onions.
- Create twice-baked potatoes by stuffing the cooked potato skins with a creamy mashed potato filling and then baking again until golden brown.
- Cut the cooked potato into cubes and add to a salad for added texture and flavor.
- Top cooked potatoes with pesto sauce or marinara sauce for an Italian twist on traditional baked potatoes.
- For breakfast or brunch, serve baked potatoes topped with spinach, feta cheese, and poached eggs for something different but delicious!
How To Preheat The Frozen Baked Potatoes In Air Fryer
To reheat frozen baked potatoes in an air fryer, set the temperature to 400°F and cook for 5 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through cooking time. Once done, add your desired toppings and enjoy!
See also: How To Cook An Egg In Air Fryer?
Cleaning Up Air Fryer After Cooking The Baked Potatoes
To clean an air fryer after cooking baked potatoes, first, turn off the appliance and unplug it. Allow the basket to cool before removing it from the unit.
Empty any remaining potato pieces or debris into a trash can. Wash the basket with warm soapy water and rinse thoroughly. Dry with a soft cloth or paper towel before returning it to the air fryer for storage.
FAQs
How Long Does It Take To Air Potatoes?
It takes about 15-20 minutes to air-fry potatoes.
Why Soak Potatoes In Water Before Air Frying?
Soaking potatoes in water before air frying helps to remove some of the starch from the potatoes, which can help them become crispier when cooked. It also helps to reduce cooking time and prevent burning.
Should Baked Potatoes Be Wrapped In Foil?
Wrapping a potato in foil before baking will help it cook faster and retain moisture.
Why Aren’t My Baked Potatoes Fluffy?
Baked potatoes can be difficult to get perfectly fluffy. The most common reasons for a dense potato are not baking it long enough, not using enough fat, or packing it too tightly in the pan.
Make sure you bake your potatoes for at least 45 minutes, and use plenty of oil or butter before putting them in the oven. Also, make sure you leave some space between each potato so that they have room to expand while cooking.
Does Soaking Potatoes In Water Make Them Crispier?
Yes, soaking potatoes in water before frying them can help make them crispier. This is because the water helps to draw out some of the starch from the potatoes, which makes them less likely to absorb excess oil and become soggy.
Conclusion
By taking the time to follow this guide, you can make potatoes that are perfectly crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.
Air fryers provide an easy and delicious way to enjoy your favorite potato recipes without all the fat of traditional frying methods.
So don’t be intimidated by air fryers. They offer a simple solution for creating flavorful potato dishes in no time!