These Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes are crispy on the outside, fluffy and creamy on the inside, and loaded with cheese, bacon, and green onions. They make the perfect side dish, appetizer, or even a hearty meal on their own.

Recipe Overview

Ingredients

Potatoes

• 4 medium russet potatoes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt

Filling

• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• ¼ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 green onions, sliced
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Garnish

• Extra green onions
• Sour cream
• Bacon crumbles

Equipment Needed

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowl
• Potato masher or fork
• Spoon
• Sharp knife

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly.

Pat dry and rub with:

• Olive oil
• Salt

Step 2: Air Fry the Potatoes

Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

Place potatoes in the basket.

Cook for 30–35 minutes, turning halfway through.

Potatoes should be fork-tender.

Step 3: Cool and Scoop

Allow potatoes to cool for 5 minutes.

Cut each potato in half lengthwise.

Carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving a thin shell around the edges.

Place the potato flesh in a mixing bowl.

Step 4: Make the Filling

Add to the bowl:

• Butter
• Sour cream
• Milk
• ¾ cup cheddar cheese
• Bacon
• Green onions
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Mash until creamy and well combined.

Step 5: Fill the Potato Shells

Spoon the mixture back into the potato shells.

Pile slightly above the edges.

Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.

Step 6: Air Fry Again

Return the stuffed potatoes to the air fryer.

Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Top with:

• Extra bacon
• Green onions
• A dollop of sour cream

Serve immediately.

Tips for Perfect Twice Baked Potatoes

Use Russet Potatoes

They have a fluffy interior perfect for mashing.

Don’t Scoop Too Deep

Leave a thin layer of potato inside the skin to keep it sturdy.

Warm Ingredients Blend Better

Room-temperature butter and sour cream create a smoother filling.

Add Cheese in Layers

Mix some into the filling and sprinkle more on top.

Flavor Variations

Loaded Ranch Potatoes

Add:

• 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning

to the filling.

Buffalo Chicken Twice Baked Potatoes

Mix in:

• Shredded chicken
• Buffalo sauce

Broccoli Cheddar Version

Add:

• 1 cup steamed broccoli
• Extra cheddar cheese

Southwest Style

Add:

• Black beans
• Corn
• Pepper Jack cheese

Vegetarian Version

Skip the bacon and add:

• Sautéed mushrooms
• Bell peppers
• Spinach

What to Serve With

Main Dishes

• Grilled chicken
• Steak
• Pork chops
• BBQ ribs

Salads

• Garden salad
• Caesar salad
• Coleslaw

Vegetables

• Roasted broccoli
• Green beans
• Asparagus

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze individually wrapped potatoes for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Air Fryer

Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 4–6 minutes.

Oven

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Per Serving (Approximate)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the potatoes and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before the second bake.

Can I use sweet potatoes?

Absolutely. Sweet potatoes make a delicious variation.

What cheese works best?

Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or Pepper Jack are excellent choices.

Can I freeze them?

Yes. Freeze after stuffing and before the second bake for best results.

How do I make them extra creamy?

Add a little extra sour cream and butter to the filling.

Recipe Notes

✅ Crispy potato skins.

✅ Creamy, cheesy filling.

✅ Air fryer friendly.

✅ Great for meal prep.

✅ Family favorite side dish.

Make-Ahead Tip

Prepare the stuffed potatoes up to a day ahead and refrigerate until ready for the final air fry.

Serving Suggestion

Pair with grilled steak and a fresh salad for a restaurant-style dinner at home. 🥔🧀✨

Chef’s Secret

Mix 2 ounces of cream cheese into the potato filling along with the sour cream. It creates an ultra-rich, velvety texture and takes these twice baked potatoes to the next level. 😋🥔🧀✨

FAQs

Why are my potatoes gummy?

Overmixing can make mashed potatoes sticky. Mash just until combined.

Can I make them without bacon?

Yes! They’re delicious with vegetables or extra cheese instead.

Can I use leftover baked potatoes?

Absolutely. This recipe is a great way to use leftovers.

Are they gluten-free?

Yes, as written, they are naturally gluten-free.

Can I make mini versions?

Yes! Use small potatoes and reduce the cooking time slightly. 🥔🧀💛✨