Air Fryer Baked Jacket Potatoes Recipe
Air fryer baked jacket potatoes are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and cook in half the time of a traditional oven. This recipe is easy, requires minimal ingredients, and is perfect for a quick, delicious meal or side dish. Whether you enjoy them with butter, sour cream, or loaded with toppings, these air-fried jacket potatoes are sure to satisfy your cravings!
Ingredients (Serves 2-4)
For the Potatoes:
- 4 medium russet potatoes (or Yukon Gold)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Optional Toppings:
- Butter
- Sour cream
- Grated cheddar cheese
- Chopped green onions
- Crispy bacon bits
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Potatoes
- Wash and Dry: Scrub the potatoes under running water to remove any dirt. Pat them completely dry with a paper towel.
- Poke Holes: Use a fork to poke holes around each potato (about 4-6 times). This helps steam escape during cooking.
- Oil and Season: Rub each potato with olive oil or melted butter, then sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder for extra flavor.
Step 2: Cooking the Potatoes in the Air Fryer
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat for 3-5 minutes.
- Place the Potatoes: Arrange the potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch for even air circulation.
- Cook: Air fry for 35-45 minutes, flipping the potatoes halfway through cooking for even crispiness.
- Check for Doneness: Insert a fork or knife into a potato; if it slides in easily, they’re done. If not, cook for another 5 minutes and check again.
Step 3: Serving the Jacket Potatoes
- Slice Open: Cut a slit in the top of each potato and gently squeeze the sides to fluff up the inside.
- Add Toppings: Load with butter, sour cream, cheese, green onions, bacon bits, or any favorite toppings.
- Serve Hot: Enjoy your crispy, fluffy air fryer baked jacket potatoes!
Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Air Fryer Jacket Potatoes
✔ Use Starchy Potatoes: Russet potatoes give the best fluffy interior, while Yukon Golds offer a creamier texture. ✔ Don’t Skip the Oil: A little oil ensures a crispy skin and prevents drying out. ✔ Preheat Your Air Fryer: This helps the potatoes cook evenly and become crispy. ✔ Cook in a Single Layer: Avoid overcrowding to allow hot air to circulate properly. ✔ For Extra Crispy Skin: After cooking, brush with a little more oil and air fry for an additional 5 minutes at 400°F (205°C). ✔ Adjust Cooking Time Based on Size: Large potatoes may need 5-10 extra minutes, while small ones might cook in 30 minutes.
Variations & Customizations
1. Loaded Baked Potatoes
Top with sour cream, shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, and green onions for the ultimate loaded baked potato experience.
2. Garlic & Herb Jacket Potatoes
Mix melted butter with minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme, then brush over the potatoes before air frying.
3. Cheesy Stuffed Potatoes
After baking, scoop out the inside, mix with shredded cheese and butter, then stuff back into the skins and air fry for another 5 minutes.
4. Sweet Potato Jacket Potatoes
Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes, following the same process. Serve with cinnamon, honey, or even marshmallows for a sweet twist.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: How long does it take to cook jacket potatoes in the air fryer?
A: Typically, 35-45 minutes at 390°F (200°C), depending on the size of the potatoes.
Q: Do I need to wrap the potatoes in foil?
A: No! Wrapping in foil traps moisture and prevents crispy skin. For crispy jacket potatoes, cook them uncovered.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! Store cooked potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
Q: Can I freeze air fryer baked potatoes?
A: Yes! Let them cool completely, wrap them individually in foil, and store them in a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes.
Q: What if my air fryer basket is small?
A: If needed, cook the potatoes in batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure even crispiness.
Q: Can I use an air fryer oven instead of a basket-style air fryer?
A: Absolutely! The cooking time and temperature remain the same.
Final Thoughts
Air fryer baked jacket potatoes are the easiest way to achieve crispy, flavorful skin and a fluffy inside without waiting for an oven to preheat. Whether you enjoy them plain with butter or loaded with toppings, this recipe is quick, simple, and incredibly satisfying. Try it today and enjoy restaurant-quality jacket potatoes at home! 😍🥔
