Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes

Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes are a delicious and convenient side dish that elevates any meal. These potatoes are easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. With a crispy exterior and a creamy, cheesy filling, they are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday dinner or enjoying them as a simple weeknight side, Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes are versatile and flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick Preparation: The air fryer cuts down cooking time significantly compared to traditional baking methods.
  • Delicious Flavor: Creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and savory spices come together to create a mouthwatering taste.
  • Versatile Side Dish: Great for holidays, barbecues, or casual dinners; these potatoes fit any occasion.
  • Healthier Option: Cooking in an air fryer requires less oil, making this dish lighter than traditional twice-baked potatoes.
  • Customizable Ingredients: You can easily switch up the toppings or add your favorite spices to make it your own.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe for Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes, it’s important to gather the right tools. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Mixing bowl
  • Potato masher or hand mixer
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

  • Air fryer: This is essential for achieving that perfect crispy skin while keeping the inside tender.
  • Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to mix all ingredients easily without spilling.
  • Potato masher or hand mixer: These tools ensure your potato filling is smooth and creamy.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes:

  • 3 medium russet potatoes
  • 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Kosher salt (to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons butter (softened)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled or 6 tablespoons bacon bits)
  • Chopped green onions (for garnish, optional)

How to Make Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

  • Wash and dry the whole potatoes with a paper towel.
  • Brush each potato with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
  • Poke each potato several times with the tines of a fork.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

  • Preheat your air fryer to 400ºF (204°C) for at least 3 minutes according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket and cook for 30 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Check doneness by piercing with a toothpick; they should be tender when fully cooked.

Step 3: Cool and Scoop

  • Let the cooked potatoes cool for about 10 minutes until they are easy to handle.
  • Cut each potato in half lengthwise with a sharp knife.
  • Carefully scoop out most of the potato flesh, leaving a thin layer of skin intact.

Step 4: Make the Filling

  • In a mixing bowl, mash the scooped potato insides using an electric mixer or potato masher.
  • Add softened butter, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Mix until smooth.

Step 5: Stuff the Potatoes

  • Fill each potato shell with the mashed mixture.
  • Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese and bacon bits evenly over each half.

Step 6: Final Cooking

  • Place stuffed potatoes back in the air fryer basket.
  • Cook them for an additional 5–7 minutes until cheese is melted and heated through.

Step 7: Serve

Serve these delicious Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes

Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes are a delicious and versatile side dish that can complement various meals. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With a Fresh Salad

  • Caesar Salad – The crisp romaine and creamy dressing pair well with the rich flavors of the potatoes.
  • Garden Salad – A light salad with mixed greens and a vinaigrette adds freshness to your meal.

As Part of a Main Dish

  • Grilled Chicken – Juicy grilled chicken breast provides a lean protein that balances the creamy potatoes.
  • Steak – A hearty steak complements the cheesy richness of the twice baked potatoes perfectly.

Topped with Extras

  • Sour Cream and Chives – Add a dollop of sour cream and fresh chives for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Buffalo Sauce – Drizzle some buffalo sauce for those who enjoy a spicy kick.

With Dipping Sauces

  • Ranch Dressing – Serve with ranch for dipping, enhancing the savory flavor profile.
  • BBQ Sauce – The sweetness of BBQ sauce contrasts nicely with the salty cheese and bacon.
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How to Perfect Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes

To ensure your Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

  • Choose the Right Potatoes – Use medium russet potatoes for their fluffy texture after baking.
  • Don’t Skip Preheating – Preheating your air fryer ensures even cooking and crispy skins.
  • Leave Some Potato Flesh – When scooping out the insides, leave some flesh to maintain structure in the skins.
  • Mix Ingredients Well – Ensure all fillings are blended smoothly for consistent flavor in every bite.
  • Watch Cooking Time – Keep an eye on them during the final cook to avoid over-browning the cheese.
  • Garnish Before Serving – Fresh toppings like green onions enhance both appearance and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes

Pairing side dishes with Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes can create a balanced meal. Here are some fantastic options:

  1. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal veggies add color and nutrients while being easy to prepare on the grill.
  2. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brings a delightful crunch that complements cheesy potatoes wonderfully.
  3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Their distinct flavor pairs well with rich potato fillings, providing variety.
  4. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy baked potatoes.
  5. Baked Beans – Sweet and savory baked beans provide heartiness to your meal alongside potatoes.
  6. Garlic Bread – Crunchy garlic bread makes for a satisfying accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any sauces.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes can be a delicious treat, but it’s easy to make mistakes in the process. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

  • Not washing the potatoes: Always wash your russet potatoes thoroughly before cooking to remove dirt and pesticides.
  • Skipping the oil: Failing to brush the potatoes with olive oil can lead to dry skin. A little oil helps achieve that perfect crispy texture.
  • Overstuffing the skins: While it’s tempting to add lots of filling, overstuffing can cause them to spill over during cooking. Fill them generously but leave some room.
  • Ignoring doneness tests: Not checking if the potatoes are fully cooked before scooping can result in undercooked insides. Use a fork or toothpick for testing doneness.
  • Neglecting seasoning: Skipping salt and spices can make your dish bland. Don’t forget to season both the potato filling and the skin.

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes in an airtight container.
  • They will keep for up to 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes

  • To freeze, wrap each potato half tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
  • Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they will last for up to 2 months.

Reheating Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes

  • Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Place potatoes on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
  • Microwave: Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through. This method is quick but can make them slightly soggy.
  • Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, cover, and heat for about 10 minutes, flipping occasionally for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of potatoes for Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes?

Yes, while russet potatoes are ideal, you can experiment with Yukon gold or red potatoes for different textures and flavors.

How do I customize my Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes?

Feel free to add ingredients like cooked broccoli, different cheeses, or spices such as paprika or chili powder for extra flavor.

What is the best way to serve Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes?

These potatoes make an excellent side dish alongside grilled meats or as part of a hearty salad plate.

Can I prepare Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and stuff the potato skins in advance, then refrigerate them until you’re ready to reheat and serve.

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes are not only quick and simple but also incredibly versatile. With options for customization, you can tailor them to suit any meal or occasion. Try adding your favorite toppings or ingredients, and enjoy this delightful side dish!

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Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes

Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes


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  • Author: Amanda
  • Total Time: 52 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6

Description

Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, combining convenience and flavor in every bite. Perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, these potatoes feature a crispy exterior and a creamy, cheesy filling that will impress your family and friends. With the ability to customize toppings and fillings, they can easily fit any occasion—from holiday dinners to casual barbecues. Plus, cooking them in an air fryer makes this dish a healthier option with less oil compared to traditional methods. Experience the joy of making these flavorful side dishes that are quick, easy, and sure to satisfy.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium russet potatoes
  • 12 tablespoons olive oil
  • Kosher salt (to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons butter (softened)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 slices cooked bacon (crumbled)

Instructions

  1. Preheat air fryer to 400ºF (204°C) for 3 minutes.
  2. Wash and dry potatoes; brush with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Poke holes with a fork.
  3. Place potatoes in air fryer basket; cook for 30 minutes, flipping halfway until tender.
  4. Cool for 10 minutes; cut in half lengthwise and scoop out most of the flesh.
  5. In a mixing bowl, mash potato flesh with butter, spices, cheese (reserve some), and sour cream until smooth.
  6. Stuff potato skins with the filling; top with remaining cheese and bacon bits.
  7. Return stuffed potatoes to air fryer; cook for another 5-7 minutes until cheese melts.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 37 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 potato half (180g)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 540mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 9g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

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