1-First Step: Prepare Your Potatoes Start by selecting 4 medium russet potatoes, each weighing about 7 ounces, and make sure they are washed and dried thoroughly. Pierce each potato all over with a fork to let steam escape during cooking this prevents them from bursting and helps them cook evenly. For air fryer baked potatoes, this preparation step is key to achieving that perfect fluffy texture inside.

2-Second Step: Season and Oil the Potatoes Once your potatoes are prepped, lightly spray each one with olive oil spray to promote crisping. Season each potato with 1/4 teaspoon of the salt, which enhances the flavor and helps with the crispy skin. If you’re adapting for dietary needs, like reducing sodium, you can use less salt while still enjoying great-tasting air fryer baked potatoes.

3-Third Step: Arrange in the Air Fryer Place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching too much for even air flow. This setup allows the hot air to circulate properly, leading to uniformly cooked air fryer baked potatoes. For those cooking for a crowd, remember you can make multiple batches if your air fryer is small.

4-Fourth Step: Cook to Perfection Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the potatoes for about 35 to 40 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure even browning. Check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center it should go in easily when they’re ready. This cooking time works well for air fryer baked potatoes of this size, but if you’re using larger ones, you might need to add a few minutes.

5-Fifth Step: Add Final Touches and Serve Once done, remove the potatoes and let them cool slightly before splitting them open. Top with the remaining 1/4 teaspoon of salt, black pepper to taste, and any optional toppings like sour cream or chives for a personalized meal. If you’re making this for dietary preferences, such as vegan options, choose plant-based toppings to keep your air fryer baked potatoes adaptable.