My 15-Minute or Less Baked Potato Cooking Hack

One of the best parts about going to a steakhouse is not just the steak, but the baked potato (loaded if you like extra fixings on top). But trying to recreate the experience at home can seem like a daunting task, especially when baked potatoes take up to an hour to make in the oven. 

I was determined to find a cooking hack that worked for me because I love all forms of potatoes. Think of me as the Bubba Gump of potatoes; they are so versatile. When I discovered this homemade baked potato hack, I was ecstatic. 

My secret to getting the perfect baked potato in just 12 minutes, is by using a microwave and air fryer. The perks of using these kitchen gadgets are that they use less energy than a large oven and are remarkably easy to operate and clean. Here’s how to make the fastest, crispiest baked potato of your life in under 15 minutes.

My 12-Minute Baked Potato Recipe

What you’ll need

• 1 russet potato 
• 1 tsp olive oil or butter
• A microwave
• An air fryer 

Directions

• Step 1: Poke air holes in the potato using a fork.
• Step 2: Microwave the potato on high for 8 to 10 minutes or until it’s fork-tender and cooked through.
• Step 3: Slice the potato halfway through and toss with melted butter or olive oil. You can also stuff the potato with cheese or bacon bits.
• Step 4: Air fry on high skin side up for 2 minutes. Flip and cook another two minutes until desired crispiness is achieved. (If topping with cheese, veggies or bacon, cook skin side down only.)

For more tips, see my list of the seven foods I’ll only air fry from now and on and learn the best way to reheat every kind of leftovers.