Easy Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes: Crispy, Creamy, and Delicious
Craving a hearty, comforting meal that’s both simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying? Look no further than this incredible Air Fryer Twice Baked Potato recipe! Whether you need a flavorful main dish for lunch or dinner, a crowd-pleasing side, or even a delightful appetizer for your next game day gathering, these stuffed potatoes are a fantastic choice. Each potato shell is baked to crispy perfection in the air fryer, then generously filled with fluffy mashed potatoes, tender broccoli, and gooey melted cheese. Get ready to elevate your potato game!
Embrace the Air Fryer for Perfect Twice Baked Potatoes
My culinary journey often leads me back to the humble, yet incredibly versatile, potato. From savory Gouda Smashed Potatoes and hearty Loaded Smashed Potatoes to exotic Spicy Lebanese Potatoes and vibrant Lemon Cilantro Potatoes, I love exploring new ways to prepare this beloved root vegetable. My unique Cauliflower Pepper Potato Salad is another testament to this passion for potato innovation.
If you’re already a fan of classic Twice Baked Potatoes, prepare to be amazed by the air fryer version. This kitchen gadget transforms a traditional favorite into an even faster and more convenient dish. The air fryer works wonders, yielding potatoes with wonderfully crispy skins and perfectly fluffy interiors, all without the need to heat up your entire kitchen. It’s truly a game-changer for this recipe!
These Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes are incredibly versatile. They can easily stand alone as a satisfying main course for lunch or dinner, or serve as an impressive and flavorful side dish to complement almost any meal. I typically stuff mine with a delicious combination of broccoli and cheese, but the beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Feel free to customize with your favorite additions like crispy bacon bits, fresh chives, a dash of hot sauce for a kick, crumbled sausage, or even different types of cheese like pepper jack or gouda. The possibilities are endless!
Beyond their delicious taste, these twice baked potatoes are also a fantastic option for meal prepping. You can prepare them ahead of time, store them in the fridge, and then simply reheat them in the air fryer when you’re ready for a quick and easy meal. If you share my love for potatoes, be sure to also check out my other recipes like Cilantro Potatoes, Paprika Potatoes, German Potato Salad, Lebanese Potato and Egg Recipe, and my comforting Potato Leek Soup.
Essential Ingredients for Your Twice Baked Potatoes
Crafting the perfect Air Fryer Twice Baked Potato starts with selecting the right ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and some tips for making the best choices:
- Potatoes: For this recipe, I highly recommend using russet potatoes or other varieties specifically labeled as baking potatoes. Their starchy texture makes them ideal for mashing into a fluffy filling, and their thick skins become wonderfully crispy in the air fryer, creating the perfect edible shell. Opt for medium-sized potatoes, uniform in size for even cooking.
- Cheese: While I often use classic sharp cheddar cheese for its familiar flavor and excellent melt, don’t be afraid to experiment! Pepper jack will add a subtle spicy kick, while gouda offers a rich, nutty flavor. Monterey Jack or even a blend of mozzarella and parmesan could also be delicious. Freshly shredded cheese melts better and tastes superior to pre-shredded options.
- Broccoli: Incorporating vegetables like broccoli not only adds a nutritious boost but also a lovely texture and color to your potatoes. Both fresh and frozen broccoli florets work beautifully. If using fresh, steam or lightly blanch them until just tender-crisp before chopping. For frozen, simply thaw and chop before mixing. Feel free to substitute with other finely chopped cooked vegetables such as spinach, corn, or bell peppers.
- Butter: Unsalted butter is key to adding richness and flavor to the mashed potato filling. It also helps achieve that creamy, smooth texture that makes twice baked potatoes so enjoyable. Don’t skimp on the butter – it’s crucial for the ultimate taste and consistency!
- Sour Cream: Sour cream is an essential ingredient for a truly rich and tangy filling. It adds moisture and a slight tang that complements the cheese and potatoes perfectly. Beyond mixing it into the filling, a dollop of sour cream on top as a garnish is highly recommended! For a lighter option, Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute.
- Seasoning (Salt & Pepper): Simple kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper are all you need to bring out the best flavors. Always taste and adjust seasonings to your preference.
- Optional Garnishes: Beyond sour cream, consider fresh chives, chopped parsley, thinly sliced green onions, or even a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce to finish your potatoes with an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.
Step-by-Step Guide: Making Twice Baked Potatoes in the Air Fryer
Making delicious twice baked potatoes in your air fryer is a straightforward process. Follow these detailed steps for guaranteed success:
- 1. Prepare Potatoes: Begin by thoroughly scrubbing your russet potatoes under cold running water to remove any dirt. Pat them completely dry, as this helps achieve a crispier skin. If your air fryer model requires preheating, set it to 400°F (200°C) now. Using a fork, pierce the potatoes all over about 6-8 times. This allows steam to escape during cooking, preventing them from bursting and ensuring an even bake.
- 2. Air Fry the First Time: Carefully place the prepared potatoes in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer and not touching each other for optimal air circulation. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, flip them over and air fry for an additional 20 minutes. The total cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size of your potatoes and your air fryer model. They are perfectly cooked when the skins are beautifully crispy and the insides are fork-tender – a butter knife or fork should glide in with no resistance.
- 3. Cool and Prepare Shells: Once cooked, carefully remove the potatoes from the air fryer and place them on a plate to cool. Allow them to cool enough so you can handle them comfortably without burning your hands, typically 5-10 minutes.
- 4. Cut and Scoop: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut each potato in half lengthwise. With a spoon, gently scoop out most of the fluffy potato flesh into a medium-sized mixing bowl. Be sure to leave about a ¼-inch border of potato attached to the skin to maintain a sturdy shell.
- 5. Mash and Mix the Filling: In the bowl with the scooped-out potato, mash it thoroughly with a fork or a potato masher until smooth and fluffy. Add 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, the chopped broccoli, softened butter, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Mix all the ingredients together until they are fully combined and evenly distributed. Ensure no dry spots remain and the filling is creamy.
- 6. Stuff and Top: Spoon the mashed potato mixture back into the empty potato skins, mounding it slightly. Make sure the filling is distributed evenly among all the potato halves. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top of each stuffed potato.
- 7. Final Air Fry & Serve: Return the stuffed potatoes to the air fryer basket, again ensuring they don’t touch. You might need to cook them in two batches depending on your air fryer size. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese on top is beautifully melted and bubbly, and the filling is heated through. Serve immediately with extra sour cream and fresh chives, if desired, for an ultimate treat!
No Air Fryer? No Problem! Oven Baked Twice Potatoes
Even if you don’t own an air fryer, you can still enjoy these delicious twice baked potatoes by using your conventional oven. The preparation steps for the potatoes and filling remain exactly the same. The only difference is the cooking method and timing:
- First Bake: Instead of placing the whole potatoes in the air fryer, you will bake them directly on the rack in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven. Depending on their size, they will typically need to bake for 45-60 minutes. To confirm doneness, pierce them with a butter knife or fork; they should be easily pierced with no resistance.
- Second Bake: Once the potatoes are baked, allow them to cool slightly, then cut them in half, scoop out the flesh, prepare the filling, and stuff the skins as described above. Place the stuffed potato halves on a baking sheet. Return them to the preheated oven for 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and golden, and the filling is thoroughly warmed through.
Expert Tips for the Best Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes
Achieving perfectly fluffy, cheesy, and crispy twice baked potatoes in your air fryer is simple with a few helpful tips:
- Reheating Leftovers: Have extra twice baked potatoes? The air fryer is your best friend for reheating! Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C) and place the leftover potatoes inside. Cook for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again. This method keeps the skin crisp and the filling moist.
- Meal Prep & Freezing: These potatoes are excellent for meal prepping. To freeze, let the stuffed potatoes cool completely after the second air fry (or before the second air fry if you want to freeze them pre-cooked). Wrap each potato individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe ziplock bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Then, reheat in the air fryer as described above, or in the oven until heated through.
- Cooking from Frozen: If you have pre-made frozen twice baked potatoes, you can cook them directly in the air fryer! Place them in the preheated air fryer at about 320°F (160°C) for approximately 25 to 27 minutes. If they don’t seem fully heated or the cheese isn’t bubbly, add an additional 5 to 10 minutes, checking periodically.
- Broccoli Choices: You can use either fresh or frozen broccoli florets for this recipe. If using fresh, a quick steam or blanch for 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp is ideal. For frozen, simply thaw it completely and pat dry before chopping to avoid excess moisture in your filling.
- Choosing the Right Potato: While other potato varieties can work, Russet potatoes or dedicated baking potatoes are highly recommended. Their high starch content makes them exceptionally fluffy when mashed, and their thick skin holds up well to the scooping and stuffing process, creating a sturdy base for your filling.
- Achieving Fluffy Filling: For the ultimate fluffy mashed potato filling, consider using a hand mixer or stand mixer to whip the scooped-out potato flesh. Add a splash of milk or cream along with the butter and sour cream for an even creamier consistency. Avoid overmixing, as this can make potatoes gummy.
- Customize Your Fillings: Don’t be limited by the broccoli and cheese combination! Get creative with your fillings. Consider adding cooked, crumbled bacon, sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, jalapeños for heat, different herbs like thyme or rosemary, or a blend of cheeses. Ensure any added meats or vegetables are cooked and drained of excess moisture before mixing into the potato.
- Preventing Soggy Skins: To ensure your potato skins stay crispy, make sure to dry the potatoes thoroughly before the first air fry. You can also lightly brush them with olive oil before the initial cook for extra crispiness.
Serving Suggestions for Twice Baked Potatoes
These versatile Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes can be the star of your meal or a fantastic supporting act. Here are some ideas for how to serve them:
- As a Main Dish: Pair with a simple green salad and a light vinaigrette for a complete and satisfying vegetarian meal.
- With Grilled Meats: They make an excellent side to grilled chicken, steak, pork chops, or even a juicy burger.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Complement the creamy potatoes with another roasted vegetable like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots for a well-rounded dinner.
- Soup & Salad Combo: Serve alongside a bowl of your favorite soup or a fresh, crisp salad for a comforting lunch.
- Holiday Feast: Twice baked potatoes are a classic for holiday gatherings like Thanksgiving or Christmas, offering a step up from traditional mashed potatoes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I make these ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the potatoes up to the point of the second air fry. Let them cool, then store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven until warmed through.
- Do I need to oil the potatoes before air frying? While not strictly necessary, lightly brushing the potatoes with olive oil before the first air fry can enhance crispiness and flavor. Just a thin layer is sufficient.
- What if my potatoes are different sizes? Try to select potatoes that are similar in size to ensure even cooking. If you have some larger ones, they may require a few extra minutes during the first air fry.
- Can I use sweet potatoes instead? While delicious, sweet potatoes have a different texture and sweetness profile. This recipe is optimized for russet potatoes. You could try adapting it, but the flavor and texture will be different.
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Air Fryer Twice Baked Potato
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Ingredients
- 2 russet potatoes, scrubbed clean
- 1 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
- 1 cup frozen broccoli, thawed and chopped
- 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup sour cream, plus more for serving, optional
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Chives , for garnish
Instructions
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Scrub the potatoes clean thoroughly. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F, if your model requires preheating. Pierce the potatoes all over with a fork, just to vent the potato skin to release any steam.
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Place the potatoes in the air fryer, not touching, and air fry for 20 minutes, turn them over and air fry an additional 20 minutes, until crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. To check if they are done, you can pierce them with a butter knife or fork and if they are easily pierced with no resistance they are done.
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Take them out of the air fryer onto a plate and let cool until they won’t burn your hands.
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Cut them down the middle lengthwise and using a spoon, scoop out most of the potato, leaving about a ¼th inch border of potato on the skin. Place the cooked potato into a medium-sized bowl.
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Mash the potato with the back of a fork or potato masher and add 1 cup of the cheddar, the broccoli, butter, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is fully combined.
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Place this back into the potato skins, making sure they are evenly stuffed. Top each potato with the remaining cheese and place them back into the air fryer, not touching. You may have to do this in two batches.
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Air fry at 400°F for 5 more minutes or until the cheese is melted on top and the filling is warmed through. Serve with more sour cream if desired.
Notes
- If you don’t have an air fryer, you can also make this recipe in the oven. Everything is the same except instead of place the potato into the air fryer, you will bake them in a preheated 400°F, placing them directly on the rack. They will bake for 45-60 minutes. To check if they are done, you can pierce them with a butter knife or fork and if they are easily pierced with no resistance they are done.
- Cut and stuff them the same way and place them on a baking sheet. Place the potatoes back into the oven for 5-10 minutes until the cheese melted and they are warmed through.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.