Looking for another fantastic way to savor the classic comfort of a traditional baked potato, but with a time-saving twist? This Air Fryer Loaded Potatoes recipe offers all the tender and fluffy inside and crispy skin goodness you love, with the added bonus of being ready in a fraction of the time. No need to wait for hours in the oven. Given the magic of the air fryer, you’ll have perfectly cooked potatoes on the table, in no time!
Easily, serve these air fryer baked potatoes simply with butter, or load them up with your favorite toppings.
What You Need to Make this Air Fryer Recipe
Believe it or not, I own four air fryers in various sizes, most of which have been gifted to me by companies to review. This Cosori 5.8 Quart Air Fryer is my top pick for the following reasons:
- Large, non-stick basket (5.8 quart) that’s large enough to fit 4 large potatoes.
- 12 functions, including a function for preheating.
- Shake function (reminds you to shake the basket).
- Cooks evenly.
- Cleans up easily, and is dishwasher-safe.
Why Air Fry Potatoes, Instead of Baking in the Oven
- Time-Saving: Air frying saves approximately 20 minutes, compared to baking in the oven.
- Crispy Texture: The air fryer produces a wonderfully crispy exterior, while keeping the insides of the potatoes, tender and fluffy.
- Energy Efficient: Using the air fryer requires less electricity than heating up a conventional oven, making it an eco-friendly option.
- Convenience: The air fryer offers hassle-free cooking with minimal cleanup, which is perfect for busy weeknights or quick meal prep.
- Consistent Results: With the air fryer’s precise temperature control and even cooking, you can expect consistent and delicious results every time.
Ingredients to Make Loaded Potatoes
The following ingredients and variations offer a wide range of possibilities to customize your Air Fryer Loaded Potatoes to suit your taste preferences, and dietary restrictions:
- Russet Potatoes: Russets are always my go-to for baking. Easily, try this air fryer recipe using sweet potatoes.
- Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, pepper jack or Gouda.
- Bacon: Substitute bacon with turkey bacon, ham, prosciutto or crispy tofu for a vegetarian option. Leave out if that is your preference.
- Sour Cream: If you’re dairy-free, opt for dairy-free sour cream, or plain Greek yogurt as a substitute.
- Olive Oil: Replace olive oil with avocado oil or coconut oil.
- Herbs: Explore different herbs such as thyme, rosemary, basil or cilantro.
- Additional Toppings:
- Avocado slices
- Salsa
- Diced tomatoes
- Chili (vegetarian or meat-based)
- Steamed broccoli florets
- Green onions (sliced)
- Jalapenos (sliced)
- Guacamole
- Hot sauce
- Pico de gallo
- Pulled pork or chicken
- Shrimp (grilled or sauteed)
How to Make Air Fryer Loaded Potatoes
Making this air fryer recipe could not be easier:
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
- Scrub and dry the potatoes, then poke them with a fork.
- Rub potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle all over with salt.
- Place potatoes in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 30-40 minutes until crispy outside and tender inside.
- Carefully remove potatoes from the air fryer.
- Cut a slit down the middle of each potato.
- Add butter, cheese and bacon to each potato.
- Return potatoes to the air fryer for 2 minutes.
- Plate, and optionally top with sour cream, black pepper, and herbs.
How to Serve and Store Loaded Baked Potatoes
When it comes to serving these delectable Air Fryer Loaded Potatoes, the possibilities are endless. Enjoy them as a main course, or as a satisfying side dish alongside your favorite protein, such as grilled chicken or steak. Other serving options include:
- Set up a DIY loaded potato bar with an assortment of toppings like diced avocado, chopped green onions, or even salsa for a customizable meal everyone will love.
- After air frying, scoop out the insides and whip them up with cheese and butter. Place the mixture back into the potato skin and back into the air fryer, for incredible Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes.
Leftover Storage and Transformation
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat by popping the loaded potatoes back into the air fryer for a few minutes.
- Alternatively, transform leftover air fryer potatoes into a hearty breakfast hash the next morning.
More Air Fryer Recipes to Love
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Air Fryer Loaded Potatoes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
This Air Fryer Loaded Potatoes recipe offers all the tender and fluffy inside and crispy skin goodness you love, with the added bonus of being ready in a fraction of the time.
Ingredients
- 2 russet potatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 4 tablespoons whipped butter
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup crisp cooked bacon, diced
- 2 teaspoons sour cream
- 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley or chives
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- While the air fryer is heating up, give your potatoes a good scrub, and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Using a fork, poke several holes into each potato. This helps steam escape while they cook, preventing any unwanted explosions!
- Rub each potato with olive oil, making sure to coat them evenly. Sprinkle all over with kosher salt.
- Carefully place the coated potatoes into the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy, and the insides are fork-tender.
- When the potatoes are done, carefully remove them from the air fryer.
- Use a sharp knife to make a lengthwise slit down the middle of each potato.
- Using a kitchen towel (they’ll be hot!), gently squeeze the ends of the potato to open them up.
- Load the potatoes with a generous dollop of whipped butter, sprinkle on a hearty helping of shredded cheddar cheese, followed by a scattering of crispy bacon pieces.
- Place the loaded potatoes back into the air fryer basket and cook for an additional 2 minutes at 400°F (200°C), just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Carefully transfer the potatoes to serving plates.
- Garnish each potato with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of cracked black pepper and fresh chopped parsley, or chives.
- Serve immediately.
- ENJOY!
Equipment
Notes
- Russet potatoes work best, but you can use red potatoes or yellow potatoes, but you will have to adjust the cook time.
- If making more than one potato, use potatoes that are similar in size and shape, for even cooking.
- Thoroughly scrub the potatoes to remove any dirt or debris before cooking.
- Make sure to thoroughly pat the potatoes dry with a kitchen towel or paper towels to ensure a crispy skin.
- Poke the potatoes with a fork several times to allow steam to escape during cooking, preventing them from bursting.
- Coat the potatoes evenly with olive oil and salt for a crispy skin.
- Place the potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
- Check the potatoes for doneness after 30 minutes.
- Be cautious when handling hot potatoes and use a kitchen towel to protect your hands.
- Customize your toppings according to your preferences and dietary restrictions for a personalized twist.
- Experiment with different herbs and seasonings to add extra flavor to your loaded baked potatoes.
- Nutritional information below, includes the toppings.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Side Dish
- Method: Easy
- Cuisine: American
GET TO KNOW ME!
WELCOME! My name is Melissa Latin aka. Charlotte Fashion Plate. Happy to meet you! I am more than just recipes. I love fashion and style too! Most importantly, I love my Family (my Hubby and my Fur Babies). My Husband (aka my “Kitchen Bitch”) means the world to me. He’s pretty damn cool too. Not only is he one of the nicest guys you will ever meet, he also has had a lengthy career in professional hockey. Not only winning two Stanley Cups with the Pittsburgh Penguins in the early ’90’s, but most recently winning the Calder Cup with the Charlotte Checkers, amongst many other accolades. If you live in Charlotte and play hockey, or have a family member who plays, be sure to contact him!
Our life has changed dramatically in the past few years with the passing of our two goldendoodles, Vegas and Viva. We were lucky enough to have Vegas for five years (totally wish it was longer). Most recently, losing our Viva to a brain tumor in July of 2020. We welcomed our mini goldendoodle 7, almost seven years ago. We just added the amazing Hazel! Of course, I am always posting tons and tons of photos! Be sure to check out my recipe for Pet Bone Broth! This broth is super rich in nutrients and will provide your pet with a multitude of health benefits!
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