Loaded baked potatoes are one of those comfort foods that everyone loves. They are creamy, cheesy, and packed full of flavor. And now, with the help of an air fryer, you can make them even more quickly and easily. In this article, we will explore the steps to make loaded baked potatoes in an air fryer, along with some tips and tricks to make them even more delicious.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start making loaded baked potatoes in an air fryer, it is important to gather all the necessary ingredients. For this recipe, you will need:
– Russet potatoes (1 per person)
– Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
– Salt (to taste)
– Black pepper (to taste)
– Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup)
– Sour cream (½ cup)
– Cooked bacon (crumbled, ¼ cup)
– Green onions (chopped, ¼ cup)
Preparation and Cooking
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
The first step in making loaded baked potatoes in an air fryer is to preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the potatoes get cooked evenly and develop a crisp outer crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly under running water. Then, pat them dry with a kitchen towel. Once dry, pierce each potato with a fork a few times. This will allow steam to escape during cooking and prevent them from bursting.
Step 3: Oil and Season
Next, drizzle the potatoes with olive oil and rub it all over their skins. This will help the skin become crispy and flavorful. Sprinkle the potatoes with salt and black pepper, ensuring an even coating. The amount of seasoning can be adjusted according to your taste preferences.
Step 4: Air Fry the Potatoes
Now it’s time to cook the potatoes in the air fryer. Place them in the air fryer basket and ensure they are in a single layer, not touching each other. This allows the hot air to circulate and cook them evenly. Cook the potatoes for 35-40 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the potatoes.
Step 5: Prepare the Toppings
While the potatoes are cooking, you can prepare the toppings. Grate the cheddar cheese, chop the green onions, and crumble the cooked bacon. You can also set out sour cream and any other desired toppings, such as chopped tomatoes or guacamole.
Step 6: Slice and Load
Once the potatoes are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Using a sharp knife, slice each potato lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through. Gently squeeze the potato from both ends to open it up slightly. This will create a pocket for the toppings.
Step 7: Load the Potatoes
Now comes the fun part – loading the potatoes with all the delicious toppings. Start by adding a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese into the pocket of each potato. Then, top with crumbled bacon and chopped green onions. Feel free to get creative with your toppings and add any other ingredients you love.
Step 8: Air Fry Again
Place the loaded potatoes back into the air fryer basket, ensuring they are still in a single layer. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the toppings are heated through. Keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking or burning.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the loaded baked potatoes are done, carefully remove them from the air fryer. They will be hot, so be sure to use oven mitts or tongs. Serve the potatoes immediately, topped with a dollop of sour cream and any other desired toppings. The result will be irresistibly cheesy, creamy, and flavorful loaded baked potatoes that everyone will love.
Tips and Tricks
– If you prefer a softer and less crispy potato skin, you can wrap each potato tightly in aluminum foil before air frying. This will result in a more traditional baked potato texture.
– Experiment with different toppings to personalize your loaded baked potatoes. You can add sautéed onions and mushrooms, jalapeños for a spicy kick, or even leftover chili for a hearty twist.
– Don’t be afraid to get creative with seasonings. Apart from salt and black pepper, you can add garlic powder, paprika, or dried herbs like rosemary or thyme to enhance the flavor of the potatoes.
– Remember that cooking times may vary depending on the air fryer model and the size of the potatoes. Keep an eye on them and adjust accordingly to avoid undercooking or overcooking.
– Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them in the air fryer or oven for a quick and tasty meal.
In Conclusion
Making loaded baked potatoes in an air fryer is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this classic dish. With a crispy outer skin, a fluffy interior, and a variety of toppings, these potatoes are a crowd-pleaser. By following the steps outlined in this article and adding your personal touch, you can create a scrumptious meal that will satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, fire up your air fryer, and indulge in some loaded baked potato goodness.