Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes

Crispy on the outside, creamy and cheesy on the inside, these air fryer twice baked potatoes are a savory comfort food dream. They're perfect for a weeknight dinner or a side for special occasions.

Jump to:

• Why You Will Love This Recipe
• Ingredient Notes & Substitutions 
• Step by Step
• Video Instructions
• Expert Tips & Variations
• SERVING SUGGESTIONS
• FAQs
• Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Here is why you’ll love these air fryer twice baked potatoes made in the air fryer:

• First of all, twice baked potatoes are one of those comfort foods that never get old. The crispy potato skins, creamy cheesy filling, and smoky bacon make it all too irresistible.
• Secondly, you get the convenience of the air fryer, which speeds things up and crisps everything beautifully. Doing the first bake in the air fryer takes about 45 minutes vs the oven which takes 60-70 minutes (depending on the potato size, of course). The second bake is only 5-7 minutes.
• It’s perfect for an impressive side dish or a satisfying weeknight dinner. I’ve served it as a main dish with salad and with grilled sausages and steak as a side dish. 
• You can also make these for game nights, holiday dinners, or when you need something a little indulgent but easy. 
• Baked potatoes are super customizable. You can mix things up with different cheeses or add-ins like sour cream or yogurt for a tangy kick! For a vegetarian version, try chickpeas, peas and corn, or cooked mushrooms; or some canned tuna with mayo for a pescatarian option. 

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions 

• White Potatoes: The foundation of this dish. Russets are ideal too because they have a fluffy texture when baked, making them perfect for creamy fillings. Choose large, round-ish, even-sized potatoes that are easy to cut in halves.
• Cheese: Cheddar adds a sharp, cheesy flavor and gooey texture, while mozzarella is perfect for melting over the top. Feel free to use one kind of cheese or swap with Gouda, or even blue cheese for a flavor twist.
• Sour Cream and milk: Makes the filling creamy and adds tanginess. Swap with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese for more protein, or cream cheese for extra richness. Reserve some sour cream for topping cooked potatoes.
• Butter: Adds richness and makes the filling super smooth.
• Bacon: Crispy, smoky flavor that contrasts with the creamy filling. For a veggie option, try sautéed mushrooms, peas, or crispy fried onions.
• Scallions (Spring Onions): Adds a mild onion flavor and freshness. You can swap with chives or leave them out if you prefer a milder taste.
• Garlic Powder: Gives a subtle, savory kick. You could swap with onion powder or even roasted garlic for more depth. Also, feel free to leave this one out if you are not a fan of garlic!
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors. Make sure to oil and salt the potatoes before baking.

Step by Step

1. Cook potatoes

• Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). 
• Spray the basket with a little oil.
• Scrub the potatoes clean, poke them with a fork, and rub with a little oil and salt.
• Cook in the air fryer for 45 minutes, turning halfway through.

2. Scoop and mix

• Let the potatoes cool slightly. Slice in half and scoop out the insides into a bowl, leaving a thin layer of potato around the edges.

3. Make the filling

• Mash the potato insides with a little salt and pepper, butter, sour cream, milk, Cheddar, garlic powder, cooked crumbled bacon, and green onions. Mix until smoothish.

4. Fill and bake again

• Spoon the filling back into the potato skins. Sprinkle each half with Mozzarella cheese on top.
• Air fry the stuffed potatoes at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes until golden and crispy.

5. Serve

• Serve while hot with a dollop of sour cream and extra green onions or chives on top.

Oven Instructions

• Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 50-60 minutes until tender.
• Follow the same steps for scooping, mixing, and refilling.
• Bake the filled potatoes in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden.

Video Instructions

Expert Tips & Variations

• Choose even-sized potatoes and go for a round-ish shape, which is easy to cut into two deep halves that are shaped like little boats.
• Let the potatoes cool off slightly after the first bake. They will continue to cook for a few more minutes and will be easier to handle.
• Meal prep: Prepare the filling and scoop the potatoes ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge for up to a day, then assemble and bake when ready.
• Customize the cheese: Use mozzarella, Gouda, or even blue cheese for a twist.
• Add veggies: Stir in finely chopped broccoli or spinach for a veggie boost.
• Make it spicy: Add a dash of cayenne or hot sauce to the filling.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

These air fryer twice-baked potatoes are hearty on their own but pair beautifully with a light salad or grilled meats. They also make a great side dish for stews, steaks, roast chicken, or BBQ. Try them with our Instant Pot beef cheeks or mustard maple chicken wings.

When it comes to toppings, it’s whatever you like. You can add any fresh herbs you like, chickpeas or lentils (try our Instant Pot black beans), cooked chicken, canned salmon or tuna, smoked salmon or smoked trout, crushed corn chips or potato crisps and the list goes on. 

A dollop of sour cream or even cottage cheese for extra protein is always great when serving these stuffed baked potatoes.

Check out these delicious Instant Pot stuffed potatoes for more filling and topping ideas.