There’s something about a baked potato that just feels like home. The kind that’s crispy on the outside, with skin that crackles under your fingers, and inside, a fluffy cloud of warm comfort. I remember one evening when I was juggling dinner and emails, and honestly, I almost forgot about the potatoes in the air fryer. When I finally pulled them out, they were this beautiful golden color, just a little imperfect here and there, with some spots crispier than others — exactly how I like them.
The smell filled the kitchen, a mix of earthy potato and a hint of salt that made me want to dive right in. I cut one open and the steam escaped in a little puff, revealing that light, fluffy inside. I added a dab of butter that melted slowly, soaking into the soft flesh. It was the kind of simple pleasure worth the few minutes of waiting, and honestly, it felt a bit like a small victory after a hectic day.
Why You’ll Love It:
- It’s quick—under an hour from start to finish—and that’s kind of the point.
- The air fryer gives you that crispy, golden skin without heating up your whole kitchen.
- The inside stays tender and fluffy, perfect for scooping and topping with your favorites.
- Easy cleanup—no foil, no fuss, just your air fryer basket.
- It’s simple comfort food that doesn’t require babysitting, though you might want to peek once or twice.
If you’re new to the air fryer or just looking for a straightforward side, this recipe is forgiving. The timing might need a little tweak depending on the size of your potatoes or your air fryer model, but that’s part of the fun. You get to make it your own.
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Air Fryer Gold Baked Potato
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 2 1x
Description
Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, this air fryer gold baked potato is a quick and easy side dish with perfect golden skin every time.
Ingredients
2 medium gold potatoes (about 6 ounces each), scrubbed and dried
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
Using a fork, poke each potato 6-8 times all over to allow steam to escape during cooking.
Rub each potato evenly with olive oil, ensuring the entire surface is coated.
Sprinkle kosher salt evenly over the potatoes, rubbing it into the skin.
Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not touch.
Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 35-40 minutes, flipping the potatoes halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crisping.
Check doneness by inserting a fork or skewer into the center; it should slide in easily when fully cooked.
Remove the potatoes from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
Kitchen Notes: I usually just use the basic air fryer basket—no special equipment needed. These potatoes are great served alongside a salad or some roasted veggies for a quick weeknight dinner. If you want to mix it up, you could try adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the salt rub or a sprinkle of garlic powder—just a little, or it might overpower the natural flavor. Also, I haven’t tested sweet potatoes this way, but it might work with a few adjustments. Leftovers reheat nicely in the air fryer too, which is great for busy days.
FAQ: Can I use russet potatoes? Yes, but the cooking time might be a bit longer due to their size. What if my potatoes aren’t crispy enough? Try flipping them halfway through to get an even crisp. Can I wrap them in foil? It’s better not to—foil traps moisture, so you’ll miss out on that crisp skin.
Ready to enjoy a simple, golden baked potato that feels just right? Save this recipe and fire up your air fryer—comfort is just a few crispy bites away.