Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes

Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes are a delightful and versatile side dish that’s perfect for any gathering or casual dinner. This recipe combines crispy potato skins filled with creamy, cheesy goodness and crispy bacon bits. Whether it’s a festive occasion like Christmas or a simple weeknight meal, these potatoes are sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick Preparation: With just 45 minutes from start to finish, you can have a delicious side ready in no time.
  • Flavor Explosion: The combination of cheddar cheese, garlic, and bacon creates a rich flavor that’s hard to resist.
  • Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for barbecues, holiday dinners, or even as a snack.
  • Healthier Option: Cooking in the air fryer reduces the amount of oil needed while still delivering that crispy texture.
  • Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients based on your preferences, such as using different cheeses or adding vegetables.

Tools and Preparation

To make Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes, you’ll need some essential tools to streamline the process. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

  • Air fryer: Cooks the potatoes quickly while keeping them crispy on the outside.
  • Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all ingredients smoothly for the filling.
  • Potato masher or electric mixer: Helps achieve the perfect creamy texture for the mashed potatoes.

Ingredients

To make Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes, gather the following ingredients:

For the Potatoes

  • 3 medium russet potatoes
  • 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Kosher salt (to taste)

For the Filling

  • 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

Toppings

  • 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 and dry the whole potatoes with a paper towel.
  2. Brush each potato with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
  3. Poke each potato several times with a fork.

Step 2: Cook in Air Fryer

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 400ºF (204°C) for at least 3 minutes.
  2. Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket and cook for 30 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
  3. Check doneness by piercing them with a toothpick; they should be tender when fully cooked.

Step 3: Cool and Scoop

  1. Let the cooked potatoes cool for about 10 minutes until they are easy to handle.
  2. With a sharp knife, cut each potato in half lengthwise.
  3. Carefully scoop out most of the potato flesh, leaving a thin layer of skin intact.

Step 4: Make Filling

  1. In a large bowl, mash the scooped potato insides using an electric mixer or potato masher until smooth.
  2. Add softened butter, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese, and sour cream.
  3. Mix until well combined.

Step 5: Stuff Potatoes

  1. Fill each potato shell with the mashed potato mixture.
  2. Sprinkle remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese and bacon bits evenly over all potato halves.

Step 6: Final Cooking

  1. Place stuffed potatoes back in the air fryer basket.
  2. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until cheese is melted and heated through.

Step 7: Serve

Serve your delicious Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired! Enjoy this flavorful side dish at your next meal!

How to Serve Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes

Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes make a delightful side dish that can complement many meals. Here are some creative ways to serve these tasty potatoes.

Classic Pairings

  • Grilled Steak: The rich flavor of grilled steak pairs perfectly with the cheesy and creamy potatoes.
  • Roasted Chicken: Serve alongside juicy roasted chicken for a comforting meal.
  • Pork Chops: The savory taste of pork chops enhances the flavors of the twice baked potatoes.

For a Festive Touch

  • Holiday Ham: These potatoes can elevate your holiday table when served with glazed ham.
  • Barbecue Ribs: Add a smoky element by serving with tender barbecue ribs for a fun cookout vibe.

Vegetarian Options

  • Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad adds brightness and balances the richness of the potatoes.
  • Vegetable Stir-Fry: Pairing with a colorful vegetable stir-fry makes for a vibrant and nutritious plate.
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How to Perfect Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes

To achieve the best results with your Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes, follow these helpful tips.

  • Use Fresh Potatoes: Selecting firm, blemish-free russet potatoes ensures better texture and flavor.
  • Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on cooking times; overcooked potatoes can become dry and mealy.
  • Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add ingredients like jalapeños or different cheeses for new flavors.
  • Let Them Cool Slightly: Allowing the cooked potatoes to cool before handling makes scooping easier and safer.
  • Check for Doneness Early: Use a fork or toothpick to check tenderness about five minutes before expected cook time.

Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes

Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes can be served alongside various dishes. Here are some great options that will complement their deliciousness.

  1. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad provides freshness and crunch, balancing the creaminess of the potatoes.
  2. Garlic Bread: Adding buttery garlic bread brings an Italian twist to your meal that everyone will love.
  3. Steamed Broccoli: This healthy side adds color and nutrients, making your plate more appealing.
  4. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans complement the flavors of cheesy twice-baked potatoes well.
  5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings a refreshing contrast to the rich taste of the potatoes.
  6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is a classic side that pairs well with many hearty dishes, including these potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

  • Skipping the Poking: Failing to poke holes in the potatoes can cause them to burst during cooking. Always poke several holes with a fork before air frying.
  • Not Preheating the Air Fryer: Skipping this step can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your air fryer for optimal results.
  • Overstuffing the Potatoes: Adding too much filling can make it difficult to reassemble and cook evenly. Be mindful of how much mixture you add back into each skin.
  • Using Cold Ingredients: Incorporating cold butter or sour cream will make your mash lumpy and hard to blend. Use softened ingredients for a smooth mixture.
  • Ignoring Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary based on potato size and air fryer model. Check for doneness and adjust time as needed.
  • Not Letting Potatoes Cool: Trying to handle hot potatoes right after cooking can lead to burns. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before cutting.
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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store any leftover Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes in an airtight container.
  • They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes

  • Place cooled stuffed potatoes in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
  • These can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes

  • Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
  • Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, checking every minute until warmed.
  • Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium-low heat, cover, and warm through for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes?

Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes are baked russet potatoes that have been scooped out, mixed with creamy fillings, and then returned to their skins before being cooked again in an air fryer.

How long do I cook Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes?

Typically, you should cook the potatoes at 400ºF (204°C) for about 30 minutes initially, followed by an additional 5-7 minutes after stuffing them.

Can I customize my Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes?

Absolutely! You can add different cheeses, vegetables, or spices according to your taste preferences. This recipe is versatile!

Are Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes healthy?

While they are delicious, moderation is key due to butter and cheese content. However, you can make them healthier by using low-fat options or adding more veggies.

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes are not only quick and easy but also incredibly satisfying. They make a perfect side dish for any meal and offer endless customization options. Whether you prefer extra cheese or loaded with toppings, these potatoes will surely be a hit at your table!

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Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes

Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes


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  • Author: Dina
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes are the epitome of comfort food! These fluffy, creamy potatoes are loaded with cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and a hint of garlic, all nestled in a perfectly crispy skin. Ideal for any occasion—from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings—this quick and easy recipe will impress everyone at your table. With just 45 minutes from prep to plate, these deliciously stuffed potatoes are not only satisfying but also customizable to fit your taste. Whether you enjoy them as a side dish or a hearty snack, Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes are sure to be a hit!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium russet potatoes
  • 12 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter (softened)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)

Instructions

  1. Preheat air fryer to 400ºF (204ºC).
  2. Wash and dry potatoes; brush with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Poke holes in each potato.
  3. Cook potatoes in air fryer for 30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  4. Let cool for 10 minutes, then cut in half and scoop out most of the flesh.
  5. Mash the scooped potato with butter, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, 1½ cups cheese, and sour cream until smooth.
  6. Stuff the potato skins with the filling and top with remaining cheese and bacon.
  7. Return stuffed potatoes to air fryer and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until heated through.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 potato half (150g)
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

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