Crispy Creamy Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes Recipe

Baked potatoes take on a whole new dimension with these crispy and creamy air fryer twice baked potatoes that promise pure comfort on a plate.

Golden-brown exteriors give way to a decadent, velvety interior packed with rich flavors.

The magic happens when classic potato goodness meets modern cooking technology, creating an irresistible side dish.

Cheese melts perfectly into each crevice, while green onions add a fresh, sharp note.

Bacon crumbles provide a salty crunch that elevates every single bite.

Simple ingredients transform into something extraordinary with minimal effort.

You’ll want to make these again and again for every gathering or quiet dinner at home.

Why Twice Baked Potatoes Shine

• Packed with tangy cheddar, creamy sour cream, and crispy bacon, these twice-baked potatoes deliver an incredible taste experience that will make your taste buds dance.
• Transform simple potatoes into a restaurant-worthy dish using an air fryer, proving that impressive meals can be made with minimal culinary skills and maximum convenience.
• Easily swap ingredients like cheese types, add different herbs, or make vegetarian by skipping bacon, allowing personalization for every palate and dietary preference.
• Using an air fryer means less oil, fewer dishes, and super easy cleaning, making this recipe perfect for busy home cooks who want delicious food without extensive kitchen work.

Twice Baked Potato Ingredients

• Potatoes: Starchy, versatile vegetables perfect for creating a crispy and creamy side dish.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp and melty cheese that adds rich flavor and gooey texture to the potato filling.
• Bacon: Crispy, salty meat that provides a delicious savory crunch to the potato topping.

• Butter, Sour Cream: Smooth ingredients that create a rich and creamy potato filling with added tanginess.

• Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Essential spices that enhance the overall flavor profile of the potato dish.
• Green Onions: Fresh herb that adds a light, mild onion flavor and bright color as a garnish.

• Olive Oil: Used to coat potatoes and help create a crispy exterior during air frying.

Tools for Crispy Potatoes

• Air Fryer: Essential for perfectly crispy and evenly cooked potatoes.
• Mixing Bowl: Large size needed for combining potato filling ingredients.
• Potato Masher or Electric Mixer: Crucial for creating smooth, creamy potato filling.
• Sharp Knife: Used for cutting potatoes and preparing ingredients.
• Cutting Board: Provides safe surface for potato preparation.
• Fork or Toothpick: Helps check potato tenderness during cooking.
• Pastry Brush: Useful for evenly coating potatoes with olive oil.
• Measuring Cups: Ensures accurate cheese and ingredient measurements.

Steps for Twice Baked Potatoes

Step 1: Clean and Prepare Potatoes

Thoroughly wash and completely dry the potatoes.

Gently coat each potato with a light layer of olive oil, sprinkle with kosher salt, and create multiple punctures using a fork to allow steam to escape during cooking.

Step 2: Fire Up the Air Fryer

Activate the air fryer and set the temperature to 400F (204C).

Allow the appliance to warm up for at least 3 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Initial Potato Roasting

Carefully place potatoes into the air fryer basket.

Cook for 30 minutes, rotating them midway through the cooking process.

Test potato doneness by inserting a toothpick or fork – it should slide in smoothly.

Step 4: Let Potatoes Rest

Remove potatoes and let them cool for 10-15 minutes until comfortable to handle without burning your fingers.

Step 5: Create Potato Boats

Slice each potato lengthwise with a sharp knife.

Delicately scoop out the inner flesh, keeping a thin layer attached to the potato skin to maintain structural integrity.

Step 6: Mash and Blend Potato Filling

Transfer potato flesh to a large mixing bowl.

Mash thoroughly using a potato masher or electric mixer until smooth and creamy.

Step 7: Create Flavor Explosion

• Softened butter
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream

Blend until ingredients are fully combined and create a uniform mixture.

Step 8: Rebuild Potato Shells

Generously fill each potato skin with the creamy mixture.

Sprinkle additional cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon on top for extra decadence.

Step 9: Final Crispy Cooking

Return stuffed potato boats to the air fryer.

Cook for 5-7 minutes until cheese melts completely and edges become golden brown and crispy.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer potatoes to a serving platter.

Garnish with freshly chopped green onions for a pop of color and additional flavor.

Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the creamy, crispy goodness.

Potato Pro Tips for Crispiness

• Ensure potatoes are completely dry before oiling to achieve maximum crispiness and prevent soggy skins.
• Use freshly grated cheddar for better melting and richer flavor compared to pre-shredded cheese.
• Taste the potato filling before stuffing and adjust salt, pepper, and spices to personal preference.
• Crisp bacon separately and sprinkle on top just before serving to maintain its texture and prevent sogginess.
• Keep an eye on potatoes during the final cooking stage to prevent overcooking and maintain a creamy, smooth filling.

Twice Baked Potato Twists

• Vegetarian Delight: Replace bacon with roasted vegetable medley like diced bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms for a plant-based protein alternative.
• Spicy Southwest Style: Add jalapeños, chili powder, and swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese to create a zesty southwestern flavor profile.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Swap: Substitute potatoes with cauliflower heads, following similar preparation method for a keto-friendly version that maintains creamy texture.
• Greek-Inspired Option: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese, chopped spinach, and oregano for a Mediterranean-inspired potato experience with tangy Mediterranean notes.

Serving Twice Baked Potatoes

• Cheesy Appetizer Platter: Arrange the twice baked potatoes on a wooden board with small dishes of extra sour cream, chopped chives, and crispy bacon bits for a stunning presentation.
• Hearty Side Dish Companion: Pair these potatoes with grilled steak, roasted chicken, or barbecue pulled pork for a satisfying meal that brings comfort and flavor to the table.
• Game Day Crowd-Pleaser: Cut potatoes into smaller bite-sized portions, perfect for sharing during sports watching parties or casual gatherings with friends and family.
• Ranch Dip Delight: Serve with a zesty homemade ranch dressing on the side, allowing guests to drizzle or dip these crispy, cheesy potatoes for an extra flavor kick.

Twice Baked Potato Storage

• Store cooled twice baked potatoes in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, ensuring they're covered tightly to prevent drying out.
• Wrap individual potatoes in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label the bag with the date to track freshness.
• Thaw frozen potatoes in the refrigerator overnight. Preheat air fryer to 350F, place potatoes in the basket, and cook for 8-10 minutes until heated through and crispy.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of potatoes?

Yes, you can use Russet, Yukon Gold, or Red potatoes. Russet potatoes work best due to their starchy texture and ability to create a crispy skin.

• Is it necessary to poke holes in the potatoes?

Absolutely. Poking holes allows steam to escape and prevents the potatoes from potentially exploding during cooking. It helps create even cooking and prevents pressure buildup.

• How do I know the potatoes are fully cooked?

Test the potatoes with a fork or toothpick. If it slides in easily without resistance, the potatoes are done. They should feel tender and soft throughout.

• Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the bacon or replace it with vegetarian bacon bits, crispy mushrooms, or additional cheese to maintain the savory flavor profile.

Crispy and Creamy Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 39 reviews

• Total Time: 57 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Potato lovers rejoice with this delightful air fryer twice baked potatoes recipe that combines crispy exteriors and rich, creamy centers. Cheese, bacon, and green onions elevate these potatoes into a crowd-pleasing side dish you’ll crave again and again.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 3 medium russet potatoes
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup sour cream

Seasoning and Flavoring:

• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Kosher salt to taste

Toppings and Garnish:

• 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (or 6 tablespoons bacon bits)
• Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Meticulously cleanse potatoes, patting completely dry. Generously massage olive oil across surfaces, then puncture multiple times with a sharp utensil. Sprinkle with kosher salt for enhanced flavor.
2. Activate air fryer at precisely 400F (204C), allowing minimum 3 minutes preheating time to ensure optimal cooking environment.
3. Carefully position potatoes inside air fryer basket, ensuring minimal contact. Roast for 30 minutes, rotating midway to guarantee uniform caramelization. Verify tenderness by inserting toothpick – it should glide smoothly.
4. Remove potatoes and rest for approximately 10 minutes, permitting safe handling temperature.
5. Slice potatoes longitudinally, then delicately extract interior flesh using a spoon. Maintain thin potato skin wall to preserve structural integrity.
6. Transfer potato flesh into mixing vessel. Pulverize using potato masher or electric mixer until achieving silky, lump-free consistency.
7. Incorporate butter, seasonings, cheddar cheese, and sour cream into mashed potato mixture. Blend thoroughly until achieving creamy, homogeneous texture.
8. Generously repopulate potato skins with prepared mixture. Lavishly sprinkle remaining cheese and crumbled bacon atop each potato boat.
9. Return stuffed potatoes to air fryer. Cook 5-7 minutes until cheese transforms into molten golden layer and potato filling reaches steaming temperature.
10. Transfer to serving platter, optionally garnishing with freshly chopped green onions for vibrant presentation.

Notes

• Potato Selection Choose medium-sized russet potatoes with uniform shape for consistent cooking and easy stuffing.
• Oil Coating Ensure thorough olive oil coverage by using a pastry brush, which helps create a crispy exterior and even browning.
• Cheese Variation Experiment with different cheese blends like sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, or pepper jack for unique flavor profiles.
• Dietary Modifications Swap bacon with turkey bacon or omit for vegetarian version, and use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for lower-fat alternative.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 37 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 12 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg