Introduction
Are you looking for a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the comfort of baked potatoes with mouthwatering flavors? These stuffed air fryer potatoes are the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness, and the crispy texture of perfectly cooked potatoes. It’s an easy-to-follow recipe that will impress your family and friends, making it a great choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
4 medium russet potatoes
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons half and half or whipping cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
2 green onions, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 4 servings
Now that you have gathered all the ingredients and noted the prep and cook times, it’s time to get started on creating these delicious stuffed air fryer potatoes. Enjoy the melding of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Scrub the potatoes clean and pat them dry.
Step 2: Oil and Season
Rub each potato with vegetable oil and sprinkle with salt.
Step 3: Air Frying
Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching.
Step 4: Cook Until Tender
Cook at 400°F for 35-40 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 5: Cool Down
Remove the potatoes from the air fryer and let them cool slightly.
Step 6: Slice the Potatoes
Slice each potato in half lengthwise.
Step 7: Scoop Out the Flesh
Scoop out the flesh, leaving a thin layer inside the skins.
Step 8: Mash the Flesh
In a bowl, mash the scooped-out potato flesh with butter, sour cream, half and half, Parmesan cheese, half of the cheddar cheese, and half of the crumbled bacon.
Step 9: Seasoning
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 10: Fill the Skins
Spoon the mixture back into the potato skins, mounding slightly.
Step 11: Top with Cheese and Bacon
Top each filled potato with the remaining cheddar cheese and bacon.
Step 12: Return to Air Fryer
Place the stuffed potatoes back into the air fryer basket.
Step 13: Melt the Cheese
Cook at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 14: Garnish
Remove from the air fryer and garnish with chopped green onions.
Step 15: Serve
Serve immediately.
Notes
Storage
Leftover stuffed potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best results.
Customization
Feel free to customize the filling by adding other ingredients such as garlic, herbs, or different types of cheese.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed potatoes make a great side dish or can be served as a main dish with a salad on the side.
Cook techniques
Scrubbing and Drying Potatoes
Make sure to thoroughly scrub the russet potatoes under running water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a clean towel to ensure they get crispy during cooking.
Oiling and Seasoning
Rub each potato with vegetable oil to help the skin crisp up. Sprinkle with salt evenly to enhance the flavor.
Air Frying
Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer without touching each other. This ensures even cooking and allows hot air to circulate around the potatoes.
Cooling and Halving
After cooking, allow the potatoes to cool slightly for safety. Slice them in half lengthwise to prepare for stuffing.
Scooping
Carefully scoop out the potato flesh, leaving a thin layer of potato inside the skin. This preserves the structure of the skins for stuffing.
Mashing Ingredients
Combine the scooped-out potato flesh with softened butter, sour cream, half and half, Parmesan cheese, half of the cheddar cheese, and half of the crumbled bacon. Mash until smooth and creamy.
Seasoning
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, ensuring the filling has a well-rounded flavor.
Filling and Mounding
Spoon the mashed potato mixture back into the potato skins, mounding it slightly for a generous serving.
Topping
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and bacon on top of each filled potato for added flavor and texture.
Final Air Frying
Return the stuffed potatoes to the air fryer basket and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly for a delicious finish.
Garnishing
Top with chopped green onions to add freshness and a pop of color before serving.
FAQ
Can I use other types of potatoes instead of russet?
Yes, you can use other types of potatoes, but russet potatoes are ideal for their fluffy texture when baked.
How can I ensure the potatoes are cooked thoroughly?
Use a fork to pierce the potatoes; they should feel tender throughout. You can also check for doneness by inserting a knife.
Can I make these stuffed potatoes in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and stuff the potatoes in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and reheat in the air fryer before serving.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
Greek yogurt or cream cheese can be used as alternatives to sour cream for a similar tangy flavor.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Omit the bacon and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or vegetables for extra flavor and texture.
Conclusion
These delicious stuffed air fryer potatoes make for a hearty dish that combines crispy skin with creamy, cheesy goodness. With the right blend of flavors—from the richness of butter and sour cream to the savory elements of bacon and cheese—this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion.
Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Try using sweet potatoes instead of russet for a sweet and savory combination. Top with goat cheese and pecans for added flavor.
Loaded Broccoli Cheddar Potatoes
Mix steamed broccoli into the potato filling and use sharp cheddar cheese for a classic loaded potato with a nutritional twist.
BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes
Combine shredded BBQ chicken with the mashed potato filling for a protein-packed variation that adds smoky flavor.
Buffalo Cauliflower Potatoes
Incorporate roasted buffalo cauliflower into the potato flesh for a spicy, vegetarian option that’s bursting with flavor.
Italian Herb and Tomato Potatoes
Mix sun-dried tomatoes, Italian herbs, and cream cheese into the filling for an Italian-inspired stuffed potato.
Mexican Fiesta Potatoes
Add black beans, corn, taco seasoning, and Monterey Jack cheese to the filling for a zesty, southwestern twist.
