- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40–50 minutes
- Total Time: 50–60 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 230 per serving
Ingredients
- 4 medium baking potatoes (Russet or Maris Piper)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Optional Toppings
- Butter
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped chives
- Crispy bacon bits
- Baked beans
- Tuna mayonnaise
- Cottage cheese
- Steamed broccoli
- Greek yogurt
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Fork
- Paper towels
- Small mixing bowl
- Pastry brush (optional)
- Serving plate
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash the potatoes thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt. Scrub the skins clean, then dry each potato completely using paper towels. Dry skins become much crispier during cooking.
Using a fork, prick each potato 5–6 times around the surface to allow steam to escape while cooking.
Step 2: Season the Potatoes
Rub each potato with olive oil until evenly coated.
Sprinkle with sea salt, black pepper, and garlic powder if using. Massage the seasoning over the entire potato for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Air Fry
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes if your model recommends preheating.
Arrange the potatoes in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, leaving space between each one so air can circulate.
Cook for 40–50 minutes, turning the potatoes halfway through cooking. Smaller potatoes may be ready after 40 minutes, while larger potatoes may require up to 55 minutes.
The potatoes are done when a knife slides easily into the center and the skins feel crisp.
Step 4: Rest
Remove the potatoes from the air fryer and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the steam to finish softening the interior.
Step 5: Serve
Slice each potato lengthwise, gently squeeze the ends to fluff the inside, and add your favorite toppings.
Serve immediately while hot.
Cooking Tips
- Choose potatoes that are similar in size for even cooking.
- Dry the potatoes thoroughly before adding oil.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
- Turn the potatoes halfway through cooking for even crispiness.
- For extra-crispy skins, cook an additional 3–5 minutes after the potatoes are fully tender.
Recipe Variations
Classic Butter Jacket Potato
Fill with butter, sea salt, and cracked black pepper.
Cheese Lover’s Potato
Top with shredded cheddar cheese and return to the air fryer for 2–3 minutes until melted.
Loaded Potato
Add sour cream, crispy bacon, shredded cheese, and chopped chives.
Healthy Version
Top with Greek yogurt, steamed broccoli, and reduced-fat cheese.
Vegetarian Option
Fill with baked beans, grated cheese, and fresh herbs.
Storage
Allow leftover potatoes to cool completely before storing.
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5–8 minutes to restore the crispy skin.
Cooked potatoes can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
Air fryer jacket potatoes pair well with:
- Grilled chicken
- Steak
- Roasted vegetables
- Fresh green salad
- Chili con carne
- Pulled chicken
- Tuna salad
- Homemade soup
They can also be served as a complete meal with a variety of toppings for everyone to customize.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 230
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Potassium: 925mg
- Vitamin C: 20% Daily Value
- Iron: 8% Daily Value
- Calcium: 2% Daily Value