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These Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes are a game-changer! Crispy, golden potato skins, fluffy cheesy filling, and smoky bacon come together in a recipe that’s quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious. Perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions, these potatoes are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These twice-baked potatoes are a versatile dish that fits seamlessly into any meal plan. They’re delicious, easy to prepare in under 45 minutes, and perfect for holidays, potlucks, or casual dinners. Plus, their crispy texture and cheesy goodness are kid-friendly and sure to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Russet potatoes: 4 medium-sized potatoes with fluffy interiors and sturdy skins.
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons, to crisp up the potato skins.
- Cheddar cheese: 2 cups, shredded, for creamy filling and a melty topping.
- Sour cream: ½ cup, for tangy creaminess in the filling.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons, softened, for richness.
- Seasonings: 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, and salt; ½ teaspoon of black pepper.
- Bacon: 4 slices, cooked and crumbled, for smoky flavor and crunch.
- Green onions: 2 stalks, sliced, for garnish and freshness.
Step 1: Prepping the Potatoes
- Rub with Olive Oil
- Coat potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt for crispy skins.
- Pierce with Fork
- Poke each potato several times to allow steam to escape during cooking.
Step 2: Air Frying Potatoes
- Preheat Air Fryer
- Set the air fryer to 400°F (204°C).
- Cook Potatoes
- Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket and cook for 30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
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Step 3: Scooping the Filling
Allow the potatoes to cool for about 10 minutes. Slice each in half and carefully scoop out the insides, leaving about ¼ inch of the potato flesh around the skin to maintain structure.
Step 4: Preparing the Filling
- Mash Potatoes
- Add the scooped-out potato to a bowl and mash well.
- Add Ingredients
- Mix in sour cream, butter, cheddar cheese (1 ½ cups), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 5: Filling the Potato Shells
Spoon the prepared filling back into the potato shells. Distribute evenly between all halves, packing lightly to avoid overfilling.
Step 6: Final Air Fry
- Top with Cheese and Bacon
- Sprinkle the filled potatoes with remaining cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
- Cook in Air Fryer
- Place the filled potatoes in the air fryer and cook at 350°F (177°C) for 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove potatoes from the air fryer and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces or as a standalone dish.
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Storage Tips
Store leftover twice-baked potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat refrigerated potatoes in a preheated air fryer at 350°F (177°C) for 10–15 minutes. Frozen potatoes may require 15–20 minutes until thoroughly warmed through.
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare the potatoes up to the final air frying step. Store assembled potatoes in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. When ready to serve, air fry at 350°F (177°C) for 15–20 minutes.
Freezing Twice-Baked Potatoes
Freeze assembled potatoes on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Cook directly from frozen at 350°F (177°C) for 15–20 minutes when ready to serve.
Expert Tips
Use Russet potatoes for their high starch content and fluffy texture. When scooping, leave a small border of potato to maintain the shell’s integrity. Work in batches if your air fryer is small.
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Kid-Friendly Customization
Let kids add their favorite toppings, like extra cheese, bacon, or even chopped veggies, to make dinner interactive and fun.
Vegan and Dairy-Free Options
Substitute dairy-free cheese, vegan sour cream, and plant-based butter for a vegan version. Replace bacon with smoky tempeh crumbles or vegan bacon bits.
Sweet Potato Variation
Swap Russet potatoes for sweet potatoes. Adjust the filling by adding complementary seasonings like cinnamon or smoked paprika and toppings like nuts or pulled pork.
Perfect for Parties
Serve these twice-baked potatoes at gatherings for an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer or side dish. Their crispy, cheesy goodness is always a hit.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes are the perfect blend of convenience, flavor, and versatility. Whether for a holiday meal, a potluck, or a simple weeknight dinner, these potatoes are sure to become a household favorite.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filled potatoes ahead and store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, heat them in the air fryer at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
- → Why poke holes in the potatoes?
Poking holes in the potatoes allows steam to escape during cooking. This prevents them from bursting and helps them cook evenly.
- → Can I freeze these potatoes?
Yes, they can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw completely before reheating in the air fryer for best results.
- → What's the best way to scoop out the potato?
Leave a thin layer of potato against the skin to keep it sturdy. Use a spoon to carefully scoop the flesh, being careful not to tear the skin.
- → Can I add other toppings?
Absolutely! Try adding diced jalapeños, different cheeses, or swap the bacon for ham. Just make sure any meat toppings are pre-cooked.
Conclusion
These air fryer twice baked potatoes are a delicious and easy side dish that combines crispy potato skins with a creamy, cheesy filling. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal accompaniment.