These air fryer potato skins are crispy on the outside, tender inside, and loaded with gooey melted cheese and savory toppings. Made with much less oil than traditional methods, they are perfect as an appetizer, party snack, or game day favorite, all with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love how easy and fuss-free this recipe is, especially compared to oven-baked or deep-fried potato skins. The air fryer delivers a beautifully crisp texture while using far less oil. These potato skins are also highly customizable, making them ideal for picky eaters or creative toppings. Best of all, they come together quickly, especially if you already have cooked potatoes on hand.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

8 large russet potatoes
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
2 green onions, finely chopped
½ cup sour cream

Directions

Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly, then pat them completely dry.

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes.

In a small bowl, mix the olive oil with the garlic powder.

Place the whole potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Brush them with the oil mixture and season evenly with salt and black pepper. Turn the potatoes over and repeat.

Air fry at 400°F for 35 minutes, flipping them once at the 20-minute mark, until they are fork tender.

Remove the potatoes and let them cool on a wire rack until easy to handle.

Slice each potato in half lengthwise. Scoop out most of the flesh, leaving about ¼ inch of potato attached to the skin.

Lightly brush the inside of each skin with olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Place the skins back into the air fryer basket and cook at 400°F for 5 to 7 minutes, until crisp and lightly golden.

Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over each potato skin. Return them to the air fryer and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

Remove from the air fryer, top with sour cream and chopped green onions, and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 16 potato skins, serving 6 to 8 people as an appetizer.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: about 55 minutes

Variations

For a spicy version, add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper over the cheese.
For a vegetarian option, add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or sweet corn.
For extra cheesiness, use a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack or mozzarella.
For a breakfast-style twist, top with scrambled eggs and a sprinkle of cheese before the final air fryer step.

Storage/Reheating

Allow leftover potato skins to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

To reheat, place the potato skins in the air fryer at 350°F for 5 to 7 minutes until heated through and crisp again. You can also reheat them in a 375°F oven for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

FAQs

Can I make air fryer potato skins ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the potato skins up to the second crisping step and refrigerate them. Add the toppings and air fry just before serving.

What type of potatoes work best for potato skins?

Russet potatoes are ideal because their thick skins crisp well and hold their shape.

How do I keep potato skins crispy?

Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket and make sure to preheat the air fryer before cooking.

Can I freeze potato skins?

Yes, freeze the cooked and cooled potato skins in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Do I need to peel the potatoes first?

No, the skin is essential for potato skins and adds texture and flavor.

Why should I leave some potato flesh in the skins?

Leaving a thin layer prevents the skins from tearing and keeps them tender inside.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly and evenly.

What can I do with the scooped-out potato flesh?

You can use it for mashed potatoes, potato pancakes, or as a filling for other dishes.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can use dairy-free cheese alternatives and skip the sour cream or replace it with a dairy-free option.

How long do potato skins stay fresh after cooking?

They are best eaten fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Conclusion

Air fryer potato skins are a simple yet satisfying snack that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Crispy, cheesy, and endlessly customizable, they’re perfect for entertaining or enjoying as a comforting treat at home. Once you try them in the air fryer, they’re sure to become a regular favorite in your recipe rotation.

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