Double baked potatoes are a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the creaminess of mashed potatoes with a crispy exterior. Cooking them in an air fryer ensures a perfectly crispy skin while keeping the inside fluffy and flavorful.
This recipe is simple and quick, making it a great side dish or snack. You can customize the filling with your favorite toppings like cheese, bacon, and chives.
Preparation of Crispy Double Baked Potatoes
Creating crispy double baked potatoes begins with selecting the right russet potatoes. Their starchy texture is perfect for achieving that fluffy interior.
Start by scrubbing the potatoes clean and poking holes in them. This allows steam to escape during cooking, preventing any unwanted explosions in your air fryer.
Next, rub the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle them with salt. This step is essential for achieving a crispy skin that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
Cooking the Potatoes
Place the prepared potatoes in the air fryer basket and set the temperature to 400°F (200°C). Cook them for about 35-40 minutes until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
Once cooked, let the potatoes cool slightly before handling. This cooling period makes it easier to scoop out the insides without damaging the skins.
Creating the Filling
After cooling, cut each potato in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the insides into a mixing bowl. Leave a thin layer of potato in the skin to maintain structure.
In the bowl, mash the scooped potato with sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, salt, and pepper. This mixture should be smooth and well-combined, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Refilling the Potato Skins
Once the filling is ready, spoon it back into the potato skins, packing it in slightly for a hearty bite. If desired, top with additional cheese for an extra layer of gooey goodness.
These filled skins are now ready for a second round in the air fryer. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy top that makes these potatoes so irresistible.
Final Cooking and Serving
Return the filled potato skins to the air fryer and cook for another 10-15 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Keep an eye on them until the tops turn a beautiful golden brown.
Once done, remove them from the air fryer and sprinkle with freshly chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor. Serve these delightful potatoes with a side of sour cream for dipping, enhancing the overall experience.
Presentation and Enjoyment
Present your crispy double baked potatoes on a rustic wooden table for a charming touch. The golden brown tops, melted cheese, and vibrant green onions create an inviting sight.
These potatoes can be enjoyed as a side dish or a satisfying snack. Their combination of textures and flavors makes them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Whether served at a casual dinner or a festive occasion, these crispy double baked potatoes are sure to impress and satisfy all who indulge.
Easy Air Fryer Double Baked Potatoes Recipe
These double baked potatoes are first cooked until tender, then scooped out, mixed with savory ingredients, and returned to their skins for a second bake in the air fryer. The process takes about 60 minutes and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- Additional cheese for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Potatoes: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the potatoes clean and poke holes in them with a fork. Rub with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
- Cook the Potatoes: Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket and cook for 35-40 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
- Scoop and Mix: Remove the potatoes from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Cut each potato in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides into a bowl, leaving a thin layer of potato in the skin.
- Make the Filling: Mash the scooped potato with sour cream, cheddar cheese, bacon bits, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Refill the Skins: Spoon the potato mixture back into the potato skins, packing it in slightly. Top with additional cheese if desired.
- Air Fry Again: Return the filled potato skins to the air fryer and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes at 400°F (200°C) until the tops are golden and crispy.
- Serve: Remove from the air fryer and sprinkle with chopped green onions before serving.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 40g