This is the best method for a perfect air-fried jacket potato. Using the microwave to cook the inside and the air fryer to crisp the skin delivers a soft, fluffy center and a satisfyingly crunchy exterior — everything you want from a baked potato.
Traditional oven-baked potatoes take a long time, and microwaving alone often leaves the skin limp. The simple two-step approach fixes both problems: microwave first to ensure the potato is cooked through, then air-fry to crisp the skin. If you do not have an air fryer, finish the microwaved potato in a hot oven after brushing with oil and salt.
Ingredient notes
In short, you only need three basic ingredients. Use good quality ingredients for the best result:
- Potatoes – Choose a floury baking potato that crisps well. Discard any tubers that are green or soft.
- Oil – A light coating of oil helps the skin crisp. Olive oil works well, but any neutral oil is fine.
- Salt – Regular table salt is fine. You can also use a flavored finishing salt to complement your chosen toppings.
Best fillings for a jacket potato
A classic topping is butter and cheese, which is simple and delicious. But these potatoes are versatile — try different fillings based on what you have on hand:
- Baked beans topped with grated cheese
- Leftover curry, chilli con carne, or stew
- Tuna mayonnaise with salad leaves
- Egg salad
- Coronation chicken or other creamy chicken salads
Storing and reheating leftovers
I usually cook only as many potatoes as needed to avoid crowding the microwave or air fryer. Leftover air-fried potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated. To reheat, warm at 175°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes — this allows the interior to heat through. Check they are hot in the center and extend the time if necessary.
Reheating just the skins
If you’ve eaten the soft insides and only have the skins left, you can crisp them up again in the air fryer. Brush or spray the skins with a little oil and air fry for about 5 minutes at 185°C (365°F) until crisp.
Recipe
Air Fried Baked Potato
Equipment
- Microwave
- Air fryer
Ingredients
- 250 g baking potato — a floury variety is best
- 1 teaspoon oil (olive oil recommended)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prick the potato a few times with a knife or fork.
- Microwave on high for 8 minutes, turning the potato over after 4 minutes. Adjust time if your microwave has lower wattage.
- Brush the potato all over with oil and sprinkle with salt. Air fry at 200°C (390°F) for 20 minutes, turning after 10 minutes, until the skin is crisp.
- Serve with butter and your favorite toppings.
Notes
Nutritional information is approximate and intended as a guideline. Microwave wattage varies; add a couple of minutes if needed to ensure the potato is cooked through.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Protein: 5 g
Fat: 4 g
More air-fried potato recipes
If you enjoy this method, try other air fryer potato dishes such as spicy chips, crushed potatoes, or sweet potato fries. These variations are quick and work well with the same crisping technique.
Keep in touch
If you make this air-fried jacket potato or try any of the recipes, I welcome your feedback. Tag any photos or comments on your preferred social channels to share your results.