A jacket potato is the definition of comfort food; simple, satisfying, and versatile. Whether you call it a jacket potato or a baked potato, the idea is the same: a crispy golden skin giving way to soft, fluffy potato inside. Traditionally cooked slowly in the oven, but that often means waiting over an hour. The air fryer jacket potato changes all of that. With its circulating hot air, you can achieve the same delicious result in a fraction of the time, making this kitchen gadget a true game-changer for busy weeknights or quick lunches.
The air-fryer not only speeds things up but also enhances the texture of the skin, giving you that signature crisp bite that oven-baked jackets are famous for. Plus, it saves energy compared to heating up a large oven just for a couple of potatoes. That’s why once you try an air fryer jacket potato, you may never go back.
Another benefit is versatility. The potato itself is a blank canvas. You can keep it simple with just butter, sea salt, and cracked black pepper, or go all out with a hearty topping like chilli con carne, coronation chicken, or creamy coleslaw. They’re also a great way to stretch leftovers into another meal: last night’s bolognese, curry, or roasted veggies can all be turned into a delicious jacket potato topping.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, feeding a family, or meal prepping, jacket potatoes are budget-friendly, healthy, and adaptable. Pair them with a green salad for a lighter meal, or load them with cheese and beans for the ultimate comforting fake-away. This recipe will guide you through making perfectly fluffy air fryer jacket potatoes with all the tips you need for success.
PREP 5 minutes
COOK 40-45 minutes
SERVES 2 people
KIT you will need an air-fryer
Ingredients for Air Fryer Jacket Potato
2 large baking potatoes (Maris Piper or King Edward work brilliantly)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Sea salt, to taste
Method
The key to a great jacket potato lies in preparation and patience. Start by giving your potatoes a good scrub under cold water to remove any dirt, since you’ll be eating the skin. Dry them thoroughly with a clean tea towel or kitchen roll. Any moisture on the skin will stop it crisping properly in the air fryer.
Next, use a fork to prick small holes all over each potato. This simple step allows steam to escape while cooking, preventing the potato from bursting and ensuring it cooks evenly all the way through.
Now it’s time to season. Rub a little olive oil over each potato – this coats the skin and encourages it to crisp up beautifully. Don’t skip this step, as the oil also helps the salt stick. Sprinkle generously with sea salt, which not only flavours the skin but gives it that classic, slightly crunchy texture we all love in a proper jacket.
Place your potatoes directly in the air fryer basket, leaving a little space around each one so the hot air can circulate. Set the air fryer to 200°C (400°F) and cook for 40–45 minutes. Halfway through, turn them over to make sure they brown evenly. Cooking time can vary depending on the size of your potatoes and your particular air fryer model. To test if they’re ready, pierce the centre with a sharp knife – it should glide in without resistance.
When they’re cooked, take them out and let them cool slightly before serving. To serve, cut a cross into the top of each potato, gently squeeze the ends to open them up, and fluff the insides with a fork. Add a knob of butter straight away so it melts into the fluffy potato flesh, then pile on your chosen toppings.
Tips for a Perfect Air Fryer Jacket Potato
1. Choose the right potato: Large floury varieties like Maris Piper, King Edward, or Russet potatoes work best. They get fluffy inside while still holding their shape. Avoid waxy potatoes as they tend to stay dense.
2. Even size matters: Try to use potatoes of similar size so they cook evenly. If one potato is much larger, it may need extra time.
3. For extra crispy skins: After 35 minutes of cooking, brush the skins with a little extra oil and return them to the air fryer for 5–10 minutes. This gives them that irresistible crunch.
4. Time saver hack: If you’re really short on time, start your jacket potato in the microwave. Cook it for 5–6 minutes until partly soft, then transfer to the air fryer for 15–20 minutes. You’ll still get that lovely crispy skin in less than half the usual time.
5. Batch cooking: Air fryer jacket potatoes reheat brilliantly. Cook a few extra, store them in the fridge, then reheat in the air-fryer for 10 minutes to bring back the crispy skin.
6. Topping ideas:
Classic: Butter, grated cheddar, and baked beans.
Protein-packed: Tuna mayo with sweetcorn.
Comforting: Leftover chilli con carne with sour cream.
Fresh: Greek yoghurt, cucumber, and chives.
Indulgent: Crispy bacon with melted cheese.
7. Serving suggestions: Pair with a simple side salad for a lighter meal, or serve alongside roasted chicken or steak for a heartier plate.
8. Family tip: Everyone can personalise their jacket potato. Set up a “toppings bar” with grated cheese, beans, ham, coleslaw, and salad so everyone builds their own.
Once you start making jacket potatoes in the air-fryer, you’ll see just how quick, easy, and delicious they can be. It’s the perfect combination of crisp, fluffy, and comforting – a recipe you’ll return to again and again.
Related Recipes
If you’ve enjoyed making this Air Fryer Jacket Potato, why not try some of my other air fryer potato recipes? Each one is simple, flavour-packed, and designed to give you delicious results with minimal effort. Here are a few more you might like:
Air Fryer Roast Potatoes
Golden, crunchy, and fluffy inside, these are the perfect roasties to serve alongside your Sunday dinner or festive feast.
Air Fryer Baked Potato
Similar to a jacket, but with a slightly different technique that gives you an irresistibly fluffy centre every single time.
Crispy Air Fryer Potato Wedges
A brilliant fake-away side, seasoned with herbs and spices. Ideal with burgers, chicken, or just a pot of mayo for dipping.
Air Fryer Potato Skins
Crispy shells loaded with cheese, bacon, and sour cream. So perfect for parties, movie nights, or a snack-style dinner.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
A healthier twist on chips, naturally sweet with a lovely crisp finish. Pair them with your favourite dip for a quick treat.
These recipes are all so quick, easy, and use simple ingredients you probably have at home.
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