Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air fryer potato skins are a healthier alternative to the traditional deep-fried version while still retaining that irresistible crispiness. The air fryer creates a golden exterior, while the inside remains soft and flavorful. You can customize them with your favorite toppings, whether that’s cheese, bacon, or sour cream, making them an ideal treat for a crowd or a simple weeknight snack. Plus, they’re easy to make, and cleanup is a breeze!

Ingredients

4 medium russet potatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
¼ cup sour cream (for serving)
2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly. Pierce them with a fork a few times.
Microwave the potatoes on high for 5-6 minutes or until they are tender but not fully cooked.
Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, slice them in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the insides, leaving about a ¼-inch border around the edges.
Brush the potato skins with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Place the potato skins in the air fryer basket, skin side down, and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy.
Remove the skins from the air fryer. Sprinkle the shredded cheese and crumbled bacon inside each skin.
Return the stuffed skins to the air fryer and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve with sour cream and garnish with green onions, if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Cheese: Swap out the cheddar cheese for other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
Toppings: Add sautéed mushrooms, diced tomatoes, or jalapeños for extra flavor and variety.
Vegetarian: Omit the bacon and load the potato skins with your favorite veggies like bell peppers, onions, or spinach.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover potato skins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the potato skins back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen potatoes for air fryer potato skins?

It’s best to use fresh potatoes for optimal results, but you can use frozen potato skins. Just be sure to follow the air fryer instructions for frozen foods and adjust the cook time accordingly.

2. Can I make these potato skins ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the potato skins, stuff them, and refrigerate them until you’re ready to air fry. Just cook them as directed when you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I make air fryer potato skins without bacon?

Yes, you can skip the bacon or use a vegetarian alternative like tempeh or tofu bacon. You can also load them with extra cheese or vegetables for a meatless option.

4. How can I make my potato skins extra crispy?

To get the crispiest skins, ensure you brush them generously with oil and cook them in a preheated air fryer. If you like them even crispier, extend the cook time by a few minutes.

5. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?

Yes! Sweet potatoes work wonderfully in this recipe and will add a slightly sweeter flavor. Adjust the cook time slightly as sweet potatoes might take a little longer to cook through.

6. What should I serve with air fryer potato skins?

Air fryer potato skins are great on their own, but they can also be paired with a fresh salad, guacamole, or even a side of chili for a more hearty meal.

7. Can I freeze leftover potato skins?

Yes, you can freeze the leftover stuffed skins. Just place them on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat them in the air fryer when you’re ready to eat.

8. How do I prevent the skins from getting soggy?

Make sure you don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket, and ensure the skins are completely dry before cooking. This helps them crisp up beautifully.

9. Can I add other fillings to my potato skins?

Absolutely! You can add sautéed onions, peppers, chili, or even pulled pork for a more savory version. The possibilities are endless.

10. Can I cook the potatoes entirely in the air fryer?

Yes, you can cook the potatoes in the air fryer instead of microwaving them first. Just place the whole potatoes in the air fryer basket at 400°F (200°C) for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through. Once they’re tender, slice and scoop out the insides to make the skins.

Conclusion

Air fryer potato skins are a crispy, delicious, and customizable snack or appetizer that everyone will love. With minimal prep and cook time, you can have a satisfying treat that’s healthier than deep-fried versions but just as tasty. Whether you prefer classic toppings or a creative spin, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your cooking rotation.

Air Fryer Potato Skins

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Air Fryer Potato Skins are a healthier and delicious snack or appetizer made in the air fryer. With a crispy golden exterior and soft inside, they are filled with cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and served with sour cream for the perfect bite. Easy to make and customizable with various toppings, these potato skins are ideal for game day or a quick weeknight treat.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10min
Cook Time: 20min
Total Time: 30min
Yield: 4servings
Category: Appetizer
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

4 medium russet potatoes

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

¼ cup sour cream (for serving)

2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly. Pierce them with a fork a few times.
Microwave the potatoes on high for 5-6 minutes or until they are tender but not fully cooked.
Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, slice them in half lengthwise. Scoop out the insides, leaving about a ¼-inch border around the edges.
Brush the potato skins with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Place the potato skins in the air fryer basket, skin side down, and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
Return the stuffed skins to the air fryer and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve with sour cream and garnish with green onions, if desired.

Notes

Store leftover potato skins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Customize with different cheeses, toppings, or make them vegetarian