loaded air fryer potato

If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying side dish or a hearty snack, loaded air fryer potatoes are the perfect choice. Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these potatoes are topped with all your favorite toppings, making them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. This recipe will guide you through the steps to make loaded air fryer potatoes that are easy to prepare and incredibly flavorful.

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Ingredients

To make loaded air fryer potatoes, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 medium russet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• ½ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup green onions, sliced
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment Needed

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowl
• Fork
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Serving platter

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Wash and Scrub: Start by washing the russet potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. Scrub them with a brush to ensure they are clean.

2. Poke Holes: Using a fork, poke several holes in each potato. This will allow steam to escape during cooking and prevent the potatoes from bursting.

3. Season the Potatoes: In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the potatoes, ensuring they are well-coated.

Step 2: Air Fry the Potatoes

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.

2. Cook the Potatoes: Place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Cook for 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through the cooking time. The potatoes are done when they are fork-tender and the skin is crispy.

3. Check for Doneness: To check if the potatoes are fully cooked, insert a fork or knife into the center. If it slides in easily, the potatoes are ready.

Step 3: Load the Potatoes

1. Remove and Cool: Carefully remove the potatoes from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes until they are easier to handle.

2. Cut Open: Using a sharp knife, cut a slit down the center of each potato, being careful not to cut all the way through. Gently squeeze the ends to open them up.

3. Add Toppings: Start by adding a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese into each potato. Follow with crumbled bacon, and then return the loaded potatoes to the air fryer for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 4: Serve

1. Plate the Potatoes: Carefully remove the loaded potatoes from the air fryer and place them on a serving platter.

2. Top with Condiments: Drizzle sour cream over the top of each potato and sprinkle with sliced green onions and fresh parsley for garnish.

3. Enjoy: Serve immediately while hot, and enjoy your delicious loaded air fryer potatoes!

Tips for Perfect Loaded Potatoes

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their starchy texture, which results in a fluffy interior. However, you can also use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture.
• Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Consider adding ingredients like jalapeños, diced tomatoes, avocado, or different types of cheese.
• Make Them Vegetarian: To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon or substitute it with plant-based bacon or crispy chickpeas for added texture.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional information per serving (1 loaded potato):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 10g
• Total Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 1g
• Sodium: 600mg

Note:

Nutritional values may vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes. Always consult a nutritionist for personalized dietary advice.

Conclusion

Loaded air fryer potatoes are a fantastic way to enjoy a classic comfort food with a modern twist. The air fryer ensures that the potatoes are perfectly crispy while keeping the insides fluffy and tender. With a variety of toppings to choose from, these loaded potatoes can be customized to suit any taste preference. Whether you serve them as a side dish or a main course, they are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Enjoy this easy and delicious recipe that brings comfort food to a whole new level