Air Fryer Blooming Baked Potatoes | Crispy, Cheesy, and Irresistible!
Looking for a creative twist on classic baked potatoes? These Air Fryer Blooming Baked Potatoes are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and loaded with melty cheese and toppings! The blooming design helps every bite soak up flavor, making this dish perfect for dinner sides, game-day snacks, or a fun comfort food treat.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium russet potatoes (washed and scrubbed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
- 4 tablespoons cooked bacon bits (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or parsley
- Sour cream or ranch, for dipping
Instructions:
1. Prep the Potatoes
- Scrub and dry the potatoes thoroughly.
- Slice off a thin layer from the bottom of each potato so they sit flat.
- Using a sharp knife, make crosswise cuts (like petals) — slice down toward the base, but don’t cut all the way through.
2. Season
- Gently fan open the “blooms.”
- Brush with olive oil or melted butter, coating between the cuts.
- Sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Air Fry
- Place potatoes in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until golden and tender.
- Check doneness by piercing with a fork — it should slide in easily.
4. Add Cheese
- Sprinkle shredded cheese into and over the petals.
- Return to the air fryer for 3–5 minutes, just until the cheese melts and bubbles.
5. Garnish & Serve
- Top with bacon bits, green onions, or parsley.
- Serve warm with sour cream or ranch dressing for dipping.
Tips for Perfect Blooming Potatoes
- Choose starchy potatoes (like russets) — they crisp up beautifully.
- If your potatoes are large, microwave them for 2–3 minutes before air frying to soften the inside.
- Brush extra butter halfway through cooking for golden perfection.
Variations
- Loaded Style: Add sour cream, shredded cheese, and crispy bacon bits.
- Garlic-Parmesan: Use melted butter, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan instead of cheddar.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle cayenne or chili flakes for extra heat.
- Tex-Mex: Add taco seasoning and top with salsa, guacamole, and shredded pepper jack.
Serving Ideas
These blooming baked potatoes pair perfectly with:
- Grilled chicken or steak
- Burgers and BBQ dishes
- Fresh green salads
- Or just enjoy them solo as a cheesy snack!
Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the air fryer for 5–7 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to restore crispiness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
No deep frying — crispy results with less oil
Fun presentation that impresses guests
Melty, cheesy goodness in every bite
Quick and easy using your air fryer
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Blooming Baked Potatoes are the ultimate way to turn a simple spud into a show-stopping side dish. Crispy edges, creamy centers, and gooey cheese make them impossible to resist. Once you try them, you’ll never look at baked potatoes the same way again!
