30-Minute Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes
Classic comfort food made easy in the air fryer. Fluffy baked potatoes are scooped out, mixed with creamy sour cream, butter, sharp cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon, then stuffed back into crispy potato shells. The air fryer creates perfectly golden, bubbly tops while keeping the filling wonderfully creamy. Perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday sides, or whenever you crave hearty comfort food with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
- 4 baked potatoes, cooled enough to handle
- ½ cup sour cream
- 4 tablespoon butter, melted
- ¼ cup milk
- ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 strips bacon, cooked and chopped
- 1 large clove garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- 1
Slice the potatoes in half lengthwise
- 2
Scoop out the potato insides with a spoon, leaving a little on the skin for structure
- 3
Place the cooked potato into a medium-sized mixing bowl and place the potato skins onto the air fryer pan
- 4
Add sour cream, butter, milk, half of the cheese, three-quarters of the chopped bacon, garlic, salt and pepper to the bowl with potatoes
- 5
Mix well and set aside
- 6
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F
- 7
Place the pan with the potato skins into the air fryer and air fry for 6 minutes
- 8
Remove and divide the potato mixture evenly among the potato skins
- 9
Top with the remaining cheese and bacon
- 10
Air fry for about 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly
- 11
Serve hot
Tips
Use pre-baked potatoes that have cooled enough to handle safely but are still warm for easier scooping.
Leave some potato flesh on the skins to maintain structure and prevent them from breaking during cooking.
Save time by using pre-cooked bacon strips from the grocery store instead of cooking your own.
Good to Know
Refrigerate for up to 3 days in airtight container
Can be assembled and refrigerated up to 1 day before final cooking
Serve immediately while cheese is bubbly and potatoes are hot
Common Mistakes
Don't scoop out too much potato flesh or the skins will break during cooking
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I make these without an air fryer?
Yes, bake in a 400°F oven for 15-20 minutes until cheese melts and tops are golden brown.
How long do leftovers keep?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in air fryer or oven until heated through.
Can I freeze twice baked potatoes?
Yes, wrap individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in air fryer or oven.