Begin by preheating your air fryer to a temperature of 400º F (200º C) to ensure it's nice and hot for when the potatoes are ready to be cooked.
While the air fryer is heating up, take your russet potatoes and give them a good wash under cold water. Use a scrub brush to remove any dirt and to clean the skin thoroughly.
Once the potatoes are washed, use a paper towel to pat them dry, making sure to remove as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy skin.
Take a fork and carefully pierce each potato several times. This will allow steam to escape during cooking and prevent the potatoes from bursting.
Drizzle a teaspoon of olive oil over each potato, making sure the skin is well coated. This will not only add flavor but will also help achieve that crave-worthy crispy texture.
Sprinkle a generous pinch of kosher salt over each potato. This will enhance the natural flavors and add a touch of savory goodness.
Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded and have space to cook evenly.
Allow the potatoes to cook for 20 minutes. This initial cooking phase will start to crisp up the skin and cook the inside.
After the 20 minutes are up, carefully rotate the potatoes in the air fryer to ensure even cooking.
Continue cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and the skin is crispy to the touch.
Once cooked, remove the potatoes from the air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes.
To serve, use a sharp knife to make a slit in the top of each potato. Use a fork to fluff up the inside and then add your favorite toppings such as butter, sour cream, chives, cheese, or bacon. Enjoy your perfectly cooked Air Fryer Baked Potatoes!