If you’ve ever craved a comfort food classic with a modern twist, then Air Fryer Twice-Baked Potatoes are about to become your new favorite side dish. Imagine perfectly crisp potato skins filled with a creamy, cheesy, buttery potato mixture, then baked again until golden perfection. These potatoes bring together the best of both worlds—crispy outside, fluffy inside—and thanks to the air fryer, they’re faster, easier, and even more delicious.
Whether you’re serving them for family dinners, holiday feasts, or weeknight meals, these potatoes are a crowd-pleaser. They pair beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or can even be enjoyed on their own as a hearty snack.
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Ingredients & Their Roles
4 medium russet potatoes – The star of the dish. Russets are ideal because their starchy flesh becomes light and fluffy, while their sturdy skins hold up to stuffing.
2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps the skins crisp up beautifully in the air fryer.
½ cup sour cream – Adds tanginess and creamy richness to the filling.
¼ cup milk – Makes the potato filling extra smooth and luscious.
3 tablespoons butter – Infuses the filling with buttery flavor and moisture.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided) – Melty, cheesy goodness inside and on top for that irresistible golden crust.
3 slices cooked bacon, crumbled – Provides a smoky, savory crunch that enhances every bite.
2 green onions, sliced – Brings freshness and a subtle onion flavor to balance the richness.
Salt & black pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning and elevating all the flavors.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
1. Scrub and dry the russet potatoes.
2. Rub each potato with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
3. Place in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 35–40 minutes, until fork-tender.
Step 2: Scoop & Mix the Filling
1. Allow potatoes to cool slightly, then slice in half lengthwise.
2. Gently scoop out the flesh into a bowl, leaving a thin shell inside each potato skin.
3. Mash the potato flesh with sour cream, milk, butter, half the cheese, bacon, green onions, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Fill & Air Fry Again
1. Spoon the creamy mixture back into the potato skins.
2. Top each with the remaining cheddar cheese.
3. Return to the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 6–8 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden.
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Why Everyone Loves This Recipe
Quick & Easy: Thanks to the air fryer, you cut down on cooking time without sacrificing flavor.
Restaurant-Quality: Crispy skin, creamy filling, and cheesy topping rival your favorite steakhouse.
Customizable: Add broccoli, swap bacon for ham, or try different cheeses for endless variations.
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Pro Tips for Perfect Twice-Baked Potatoes
Don’t over-scoop the potato shells—leave a thin layer inside to keep them sturdy.
For ultra-creamy filling, use a potato masher or hand mixer.
If making ahead, prepare the filling and store in the fridge, then air fry when ready to serve.
For a lighter option, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream.
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Serving Suggestions
These Air Fryer Twice-Baked Potatoes shine as a side dish but can also hold their own as a main course. Pair them with:
Grilled steak or chicken for a hearty dinner.
Roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
A fresh green salad for a lighter pairing.
Or serve them with a chili topping for a filling comfort food upgrade.
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Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Twice-Baked Potatoes are the ultimate mix of comfort and convenience. With their crispy skins, fluffy potato filling, melty cheese, and savory bacon, they’re an irresistible
dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for weeknights or holidays, they elevate any meal with minimal effort.
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