If you’re hunting for a comforting and delicious side or a fantastic main that will wow family and friends, look no further than this Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes Recipe. Imagine crispy, golden-skinned russets with pillowy, buttery, cheesy insides that melt in your mouth – all made effortlessly in your air fryer. These potatoes bring together the best of textures and rich, creamy flavors, turning an everyday spud into a showstopper that’s sure to become a kitchen favorite in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to making this Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes Recipe a smashing success. Each component plays a vital role in creating that perfect balance of crispy skin and creamy filling with a cheesy, savory finish.
- 4 large russet potatoes: The ideal starchy potato for fluffy insides and sturdy skin.
- Olive oil: Brushed on the skins to crisp them beautifully in the air fryer.
- Kosher salt: Enhances the natural potato flavor and seasons the skin perfectly.
- Cracked black pepper: Adds just the right mild heat for an extra flavor kick.
- ½ cup heavy cream (or milk): Enriches the mashed potato filling with creamy smoothness.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (softened): Provides buttery richness without overpowering the dish.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (divided): Bringing melty cheesiness to the filling and topping.
- Chopped bacon (for garnish): Adds crunch and smoky depth as a finishing touch.
- Sour cream (for garnish): Offers a cool, tangy contrast to the warm potatoes.
- Green onions (optional garnish): Sprinkles of fresh, mild onion flavor and vibrant color.
How to Make Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Before anything else, set your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Preheating is essential to get those potato skins wonderfully crisp and keep the interior tender and fluffy.
Step 2: Prep the Potatoes
Give your potatoes a good wash and scrub to remove any dirt, then dry them thoroughly. Use a fork to poke several holes all over each potato to help steam escape during cooking and prevent any bursting inside your air fryer.
Step 3: Season and Air Fry
Rub each potato with olive oil, then sprinkle salt and cracked black pepper to taste. This simple seasoning crisps up the skins while infusing subtle flavor. Place them carefully in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not overcrowded. Air fry at 400 degrees for about 70 minutes, allowing the outside to become crisp and the inside to soften perfectly.
Step 4: Scoop and Mash
Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, slice them in half lengthwise. Gently scoop out the fluffy potato innards into a bowl, being careful not to pierce the skins, as they’ll hold the filling.
Step 5: Mix the Filling
Add softened butter, heavy cream, salt, and pepper to the scooped potato. Using a hand mixer or a potato masher, whip the mixture until it’s light, fluffy, and irresistibly creamy. Feel free to add extra butter or cream if you crave more richness.
Step 6: Fill, Top, and Crisp
Divide the mashed potato mixture evenly back into the potato skins. Pop them back into the air fryer for 4 minutes at 400 degrees to warm through and start browning the tops. Next, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top and air fry for another 1 to 2 minutes, just until the cheese melts and bubbles deliciously.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Carefully arrange your twice baked potatoes on a serving dish. Garnish generously with chopped bacon, a dollop of sour cream, and green onions for freshness and color. Serve hot and watch your guests marvel at the perfect harmony of creamy, cheesy filling and crisp skins.
How to Serve Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
The garnish is where you can get creative and elevate this classic. Crispy bacon adds savory crunch, sour cream lends a cooling tang, and fresh green onions bring a bright, herbal note. Feel free to add chives, shredded cheddar, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for extra personality.
Side Dishes
This dish is pretty hearty on its own but pairs beautifully with fresh greens like a simple arugula salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider pairing with grilled chicken or a juicy steak to complement the potatoes’ richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the stuffed potatoes into smaller, bite-sized pieces for a fun party appetizer. Alternatively, serve them in individual ramekins for a cozy, elegant presentation reminiscent of a loaded potato soufflé. Even stacking three halves with layers of bacon and cheese makes for a stunning and playful twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The skins will stay relatively crisp, and the filling remains creamy, making for an excellent next-day treat.
Freezing
You can freeze the scooped potato filling separately in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, refill potato skins, and air fry as usual to restore that fresh-out-of-the-air-fryer taste.
Reheating
Reheat your twice baked potatoes in the air fryer at 350 degrees for about 10 minutes. This method revitalizes the crispy skin and warms the filling perfectly without drying it out, unlike a microwave.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes Recipe?
While russet potatoes work best for their fluffy texture and sturdy skins, you can experiment with Yukon gold potatoes for a creamier filling. Just note that the skin may not get as crispy.
Do I need to pre-cook the potatoes before air frying?
No need to pre-cook! The air fryer does all the heavy lifting, making the potato skins crispy while cooking the potatoes through in about 70 minutes.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap the heavy cream for a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and use dairy-free butter and cheese alternatives to keep it delicious and creamy.
Is it possible to add other mix-ins to the filling?
Definitely! Feel free to fold in sautéed onions, roasted garlic, chopped herbs, or even cooked veggies like broccoli for a personalized twist on this Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes Recipe.
What size air fryer do I need for this recipe?
A standard air fryer basket of about 5 to 6 quarts comfortably fits 4 large potatoes without overcrowding, ensuring even cooking and the best texture.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes Recipe has quickly become a cherished go-to for cozy dinners and special occasions alike. It’s simple, packed with flavor, and makes the most of your air fryer’s magic to deliver crispy skins and luscious filling every single time. Give it a try and savor the warmth and joy it brings to your table!
