Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes

Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes are a delightful side dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. Perfect for any occasion, these potatoes are easy to prepare and require minimal effort. The combination of creamy mashed potato filling, melted cheese, and crispy bacon bits makes them a standout choice for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or casual get-togethers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick Preparation: With just a few steps, you can have delicious twice baked potatoes ready in under an hour.
  • Flavor Explosion: The mix of garlic powder, onion powder, and cheddar cheese delivers an irresistible taste.
  • Versatile Side Dish: These potatoes complement a wide range of main courses, from grilled meats to hearty stews.
  • Easy Customization: Add your favorite toppings like sour cream or chives to personalize each serving.
  • Healthy Option: Using the air fryer reduces the need for excess oil while still achieving that crispy finish.

Tools and Preparation

To create mouthwatering Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes, having the right tools is essential. These tools will streamline your cooking process and ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Mixing bowl
  • Potato masher or electric mixer
  • Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

  • Air fryer: Cooks food evenly and quickly while providing a crisp texture without excessive oil.
  • Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is necessary to combine ingredients effectively without spills.
  • Potato masher or electric mixer: Helps achieve smooth mashed potatoes, ensuring a great texture in the filling.

Ingredients

Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes are a quick and easy side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Topped with melty cheesy and crispy bacon bits.

  • 3 medium russet potatoes
  • 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Kosher salt (to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons butter (softened)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled (or 6 tablespoons bacon bits))
  • Chopped green onions (for garnish (optional))

How to Make Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

  1. Wash the whole potatoes thoroughly, then dry them with a paper towel.
  2. Brush each potato with olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt.
  3. Poke several holes in each potato using the tines of a fork.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes in the Air Fryer

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 400ºF (204°C) for at least 3 minutes or as per manufacturer instructions.
  2. Place the prepared potatoes in the air fryer basket.
  3. Cook for 30 minutes, flipping them halfway through cooking time until tender.

Step 3: Cool and Scoop Out the Flesh

  1. Once cooked, let the potatoes cool for about 10 minutes until they are manageable.
  2. Cut each potato in half lengthwise with a sharp knife.
  3. Carefully scoop out most of the potato flesh into a mixing bowl, leaving a thin layer inside each skin.

Step 4: Make the Filling

  1. Mash the scooped potato flesh using either an electric mixer or a hand masher until smooth.
  2. Add softened butter, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, and sour cream to the bowl.
  3. Mix all ingredients together until well combined.

Step 5: Stuff and Re-cook the Potatoes

  1. Fill each potato shell with the mashed mixture evenly.
  2. Top with remaining cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon bits.
  3. Place stuffed potatoes back into the air fryer basket and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.

Step 6: Serve

Serve these delightful Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes hot from the air fryer and garnish with chopped green onions if desired. Enjoy this delicious side dish at your next meal!

How to Serve Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes

Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes are versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions that will enhance your dining experience.

As a Standalone Dish

  • These potatoes can be enjoyed on their own, offering a hearty and cheesy flavor that satisfies hunger.

With a Side Salad

  • Pairing with a fresh salad adds a crunchy texture and balances the richness of the potatoes.

Accompanied by Grilled Meats

  • Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or pork for a filling meal that combines various flavors.

Topped with Additional Ingredients

  • Consider adding extra toppings like jalapeños, salsa, or guacamole for added zest and flavor.

As Part of a Holiday Feast

  • These potatoes make an excellent side for holiday meals, complementing main dishes during Thanksgiving and Christmas.
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How to Perfect Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes

To ensure your Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes come out perfectly every time, follow these tips.

  • Choose the right potatoes: Opt for medium-sized russet potatoes; they have the perfect texture for baking.
  • Don’t skip the oil: Brushing with olive oil helps achieve a crispy skin.
  • Use room temperature ingredients: Let your butter and sour cream sit out before mixing for easier blending.
  • Avoid over-mixing: Mix just until smooth to keep the filling light and fluffy.
  • Check for doneness: Use a fork or toothpick to ensure your potatoes are tender before scooping out the flesh.
  • Experiment with flavors: Feel free to customize spices and cheeses based on your preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes

Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes pair well with many side dishes. Here’s a list of great options to consider.

  1. Grilled Vegetables
    A colorful array of grilled veggies adds freshness and nutrients to your meal.

  2. Caesar Salad
    This classic salad complements the cheesy potatoes with its crisp romaine and creamy dressing.

  3. Steamed Broccoli
    Lightly steamed broccoli balances out the richness of twice baked potatoes perfectly.

  4. Coleslaw
    A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, enhancing the overall meal experience.

  5. Corn on the Cob
    Sweet corn is a delightful accompaniment that brings summer vibes to any table setting.

  6. Baked Beans
    Savory baked beans add protein and flavor contrast that pairs well with cheesy dishes like these potatoes.

  7. Garlic Bread
    For those who love carbs, garlic bread can be a comforting addition alongside your baked potatoes.

  8. Stuffed Mushrooms
    These savory bites offer another layer of flavor and complement the richness of your main dish beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

  • Skipping the Poking Step: Not poking holes in the potatoes can cause them to burst. Always poke several holes with a fork before air frying.

  • Not Preheating the Air Fryer: Failing to preheat can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to preheat your air fryer properly as per the manufacturer’s instructions.

  • Overstuffing the Potatoes: Filling potato skins too much may cause them to overflow and make a mess. Aim for a balanced amount of filling in each skin.

  • Using Cold Ingredients: Mixing cold butter or cream into the filling can result in a lumpy texture. Ensure that all ingredients, especially dairy, are at room temperature.

  • Ignoring Cooking Times: Different air fryers have varying cooking times. Always check for doneness by testing with a toothpick or fork.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container.
  • Enjoy them within 3-5 days for best taste and freshness.

Freezing Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes

  • Wrap each potato individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
  • Place them in a freezer-safe bag; they can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
  • Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through.
  • Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat until warmed, covering with a lid.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes:

How do I ensure my Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes come out crispy?

The key is to use olive oil and kosher salt on the skins before cooking. This will enhance their crispiness.

Can I customize the filling for my Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes?

Absolutely! You can add different cheeses, herbs, or even vegetables based on your preferences.

What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Russet potatoes are ideal due to their fluffy texture after baking, making them perfect for twice baking.

How many servings does this recipe yield?

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings, making it great for family dinners or gatherings.

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with various toppings and flavors to suit any occasion. Try this easy recipe today and enjoy a comforting side dish that everyone will love!

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Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes

Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes


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  • Author: Cara
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

Description

Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes are a scrumptious and comforting side dish that combines creamy mashed potato filling with melted cheese and crispy bacon bits. Perfect for any occasion, this easy recipe allows you to enjoy delicious, gourmet-style potatoes in under an hour.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium russet potatoes
  • 12 tablespoons olive oil
  • Kosher salt (to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons butter (softened)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 slices cooked bacon (crumbled)
  • Chopped green onions (optional for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry the potatoes, then brush with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Poke holes in each potato.
  2. Preheat the air fryer to 400ºF (204ºC) and cook the potatoes for 30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  3. Let the cooked potatoes cool for about 10 minutes. Cut them in half lengthwise and scoop out most of the flesh into a mixing bowl.
  4. Mash the potato flesh and mix in butter, spices, cheese, and sour cream until smooth.
  5. Fill the potato skins with the mixture, top with remaining cheese and bacon bits, then return to the air fryer for an additional 5-7 minutes until heated through.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 potato half (125g)
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 520mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

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