Loaded Air Fryer Baked Potatoes are the perfect mix of crispy skin and fluffy interior, finished with rich, comforting toppings. Cooking potatoes in the air fryer gives you that classic baked potato texture in less time, with a deeply crisp exterior and soft, steamy center. Once split open, the potato becomes a blank canvas ready for butter, cheese, and other hearty toppings.
This recipe is ideal when you want comfort food without turning on the oven. Whether served as a main dish or a filling side, loaded baked potatoes are endlessly customizable and incredibly satisfying. The air fryer makes them easy and reliable, delivering consistent results every time with minimal effort.
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Fork
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Small bowl
- Spoon
Ingredients
- Russet potatoes – 4 medium
- Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
- Salt – 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
- Butter – 4 tablespoons
- Shredded cheddar cheese – 1½ cups
- Cooked bacon – ½ cup, crumbled
- Sour cream – ½ cup
- Green onions – ¼ cup, sliced
Instructions
- Scrub the potatoes clean and pat them completely dry.
- Pierce each potato several times with a fork.
- Rub potatoes with olive oil, then season evenly with salt and black pepper.
- Place potatoes in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each one.
- Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 35–40 minutes, turning halfway through, until skins are crisp and potatoes are fork-tender.
- Carefully remove potatoes and slice them open lengthwise.
- Fluff the insides gently with a fork.
- Add butter to each potato, followed by shredded cheese.
- Return potatoes to the air fryer for 2–3 minutes until cheese melts.
- Top with bacon, sour cream, and green onions before serving.
Recipe Info
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Cuisine: American
- Course: Main / Snack
How to Store
Store leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until warmed through and crisp again.
What Not to Do
- Do not wrap potatoes in foil — this prevents the skin from crisping.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
- Do not skip piercing the potatoes, as steam needs to escape.
Tips & Variations
- Swap cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack cheese.
- Add cooked broccoli or sautéed mushrooms for a veggie option.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter topping.
- Sprinkle smoked paprika or chili flakes for extra flavor.
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~430
- Protein: ~12 g
- Fat: ~22 g
- Carbohydrates: ~45 g
- Fiber: ~5 g
- Sugar: ~3 g
Ingredients
Method
- Scrub the potatoes clean and pat them completely dry.
- Pierce each potato several times with a fork.
- Rub potatoes with olive oil, then season evenly with salt and black pepper.
- Place potatoes in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each one.
- Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 35–40 minutes, turning halfway through, until skins are crisp and potatoes are fork-tender.
- Carefully remove potatoes and slice them open lengthwise.
- Fluff the insides gently with a fork.
- Add butter to each potato, followed by shredded cheese.
- Return potatoes to the air fryer for 2–3 minutes until cheese melts.
- Top with bacon, sour cream, and green onions before serving.
Notes
- Protein: ~12 g
- Fat: ~22 g
- Carbohydrates: ~45 g
- Fiber: ~5 g
- Sugar: ~3 g
Conclusion
Loaded Air Fryer Baked Potatoes deliver everything you love about classic baked potatoes with a faster, crispier result. Rich toppings, fluffy centers, and crunchy skins make this dish comforting, customizable, and perfect for any meal of the day.
FAQs
Can I use other potato types?
Russet potatoes work best, but Yukon Golds can also be used.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Preheating helps with crisping but is optional.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, bake the potatoes ahead and add toppings just before serving.
How do I make them vegetarian?
Skip the bacon and add veggies or extra cheese.
Can I freeze baked potatoes?
Yes, freeze without toppings and reheat in the air fryer.
Why are my potatoes not crispy?
Too much moisture or overcrowding can prevent crisp skin.
