Introduction
Delight your taste buds with the scrumptious and satisfying Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes. This recipe offers a tasty twist on traditional baked potatoes, combining fluffy potato filling with crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and zesty green onions. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, these twice baked potatoes are a perfect side dish for any meal.
Why Make This Recipe
If you're looking for a comforting and flavorful side dish that is hassle-free to make, then Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes are the way to go. The air fryer ensures a crispy skin and fluffy interior without the need for lengthy baking times. Plus, the combination of creamy mashed potatoes with crispy bacon and melted cheese is simply irresistible.
How to Make Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes
Ingredients:
- 2 Russet potatoes
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 tablespoon sour cream
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon cream cheese
- ¾ teaspoon seasoned salt
- 2 pieces bacon (fried and crumbled)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar (divided)
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
Directions:
- Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees.
- Scrub the potatoes well and pat dry.
- Coat the potatoes in the olive oil and sprinkle with the kosher salt.
- Arrange the potatoes in an air fryer basket and cook for 35-45 minutes, or until easily pierced with a fork, flipping the potatoes over about halfway through cooking. Let cool for 10 minutes.
- Cut potatoes in half lengthwise. Scoop the potatoes out with a spoon into a small bowl leaving about 1/8 to 1/4 of an inch of potato along the skin.
- Add the milk, sour cream, butter, cream cheese, and seasoned salt to the potatoes and mash well until smooth and creamy. Add additional milk if needed to reach the desired consistency.
- Stir the bacon, 1/4 cup of cheddar, and green onions into the potatoes until combined. Taste and add additional salt, if needed.
- Spoon the mashed potatoes evenly into the shells.
- Top with the remaining cheese and air fry at 350 for 10-15 minutes or until the potatoes are heated through and the cheese has melted.
How to Serve Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes
Serve these delectable twice baked potatoes hot as a side dish alongside your favorite protein such as grilled chicken, steak, or fish. They also make a great appetizer for parties and gatherings.
How to Store Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes
Store any leftover twice baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the air fryer or oven until heated through.
Tips to Make Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes
- Ensure that the potatoes are thoroughly cooked before scooping out the flesh for the filling.
- Feel free to customize the toppings to your liking by adding ingredients such as chopped jalapenos, crispy onions, or fresh herbs.
- Adjust the amount of salt and seasoning according to your taste preferences.
Variation
For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add in more vegetables such as bell peppers, corn, or spinach to the mashed potato filling. You can also experiment with different types of cheeses for a unique flavor profile.
FAQs
- Can I prepare the mashed potato filling ahead of time? Yes, you can make the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use for the second baking.
- Can I use sweet potatoes instead of Russet potatoes? Yes, you can substitute sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter twist on this recipe.
- Can I freeze Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes? While technically possible, the texture may change slightly upon reheating, so it’s best to enjoy them fresh for the best taste and consistency.
