Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes Recipe

If you’ve ever craved cheesy, creamy potatoes with crispy skins but didn’t want to fuss with the oven, Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes are here to change your potato game forever. These hearty potatoes feature a fluffy mashed filling whipped with sour cream, butter, and cheese, then nestled back into their golden shells and air fried to pure perfection. It’s the ultimate comfort food made lighter, faster, and crispier—all in your trusty air fryer. This is a recipe you’ll want to make again and again for family dinners, parties, or even as a fun weeknight side.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps it classic with just a few everyday ingredients, each playing a special role in creating those crave-worthy Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes. Make sure to use good quality ingredients for the creamiest, most flavorful results.

• Russet potatoes: The star of the show! Their starchy, fluffy texture makes them perfect for baking and mashing.
• Olive oil: Rubbing the skins ensures a crispy, flavorful exterior once air fried.
• Sour cream: Adds a luxurious tang and silky creaminess to the mashed potato filling.
• Butter: Because what’s a twice baked potato without the buttery richness?
• Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar melts into gooey, golden goodness—feel free to use your favorite cheese blend.
• Milk: Just a splash helps loosen the filling and keeps it creamy without being heavy.
• Chives or green onions: For a pop of color and a little zip that brightens every bite.
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that make all the flavors sing.
• Cooked bacon (optional): Adds smoky, crunchy bite for those who want to take things over the top!

How to Make Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes

Step 1: Bake the Potatoes in the Air Fryer

Start by scrubbing your russet potatoes clean, then dry them thoroughly. Prick each potato all over with a fork and rub them with olive oil and a little salt. Arrange them in your air fryer basket, making sure there’s space around each one for even cooking. Air fry at 400°F for about 35-40 minutes, or until a fork easily slides into the center. Let them cool just enough to handle.

Step 2: Scoop Out the Flesh

When the potatoes are cool enough, slice each in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop most of the flesh into a bowl, leaving a thin wall so the skins stay intact—it’s like carving out little potato boats! This makes room for that irresistibly creamy filling.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Filling

To the warm potato flesh, add sour cream, butter, a splash of milk, and a generous handful of cheddar cheese. Mash and mix until creamy but still a little textured—no need for perfection here! Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you love a little crunch or smoky flavor, fold in some cooked bacon bits and a sprinkle of chives or green onions.

Step 4: Refill the Potato Skins

Spoon the creamy mashed mixture back into the potato shells, heaping it up with a little flourish. Top each with extra cheese (don’t hold back), and another round of chives or bacon, if you’re feeling indulgent. These loaded potato halves are almost ready for their grand finale.

Step 5: Air Fry Until Golden and Melty

Return the stuffed potatoes to your air fryer basket. Air fry at 375°F for about 8-10 minutes, until the tops are golden and the cheese is bubbling. The skins will crisp even more, and the filling will stay pillowy and hot. Your Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes are ready to shine!

How to Serve Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes

Garnishes

Don’t skip the finishing touches! Sprinkle each hot potato with fresh chives, a dollop of sour cream, or crispy bacon. Even a light dusting of smoked paprika or a drizzle of hot sauce can turn these into an unforgettable side or main.

Side Dishes

Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes pair beautifully alongside grilled steak, roast chicken, or even salmon. For a comforting and complete meal, add a crisp green salad or some steamed vegetables to lighten things up.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling festive? Try slicing each stuffed half into bite-size pieces for a killer appetizer platter, or mix up the fillings with extras like sautéed mushrooms, jalapeños, or different cheeses for your own signature twist. You can even use colorful baby potatoes for a party-friendly mini version!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you manage to have leftovers, place the cooled Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. They’ll stay moist and flavorful, perfect for quick weeknight meals.

Freezing

To freeze, prepare the potatoes through the filling stage but don’t do the second air fry. Wrap each stuffed potato in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before finishing in the air fryer for an easy make-ahead side.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat your potatoes in the air fryer at 350°F for 6-8 minutes. This keeps the filling creamy and the skins crisp, just like when they were first made. The microwave works too, but the air fryer is truly the secret for that unbeatable texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of potato?

Russet potatoes are best for Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes because of their fluffy texture, but Yukon Golds also work if you like a creamier bite. Just adjust the cooking time as needed!

Do I need to use foil in the air fryer?

No foil is needed—just place the potato halves right in the basket! This helps the skins get ultra crispy, which is half the fun of this recipe.

What’s the best cheese for the filling?

Sharp cheddar is a classic, but feel free to mix in Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even Gruyere for a funky, irresistible flavor. Use what you love or whatever you have in the fridge!

How can I make these vegetarian or vegan?

Easily! Omit the bacon and swap in vegan butter, non-dairy sour cream, and plant-based cheese. You’ll still get all the creamy, indulgent joy, just tailored to your preferences.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Absolutely! Just cook in batches if your air fryer isn’t extra-large. Keep finished Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes warm in a low oven while you work through each batch.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try these Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes, they’ll earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. They’re crispy, creamy, flexible, and always a total crowd-pleaser. Go on—give them a whirl and watch everyone at your table light up with that first cheesy bite!

Print