Twice baked potatoes are a delicious side dish that can be made ahead of time and reheated later. Reheating them in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get crispy, hot twice baked potatoes on the table. An air fryer uses hot air and convection to crisp up foods, similar to a convection oven. When reheating twice baked potatoes in an air fryer, there are a few things to keep in mind regarding cook time and technique to get ideal results.
Factors That Affect Reheat Time
There are a several factors that can impact how long it takes to reheat twice baked potatoes in an air fryer:
- Size of the potato – Larger potatoes will take longer than smaller ones
- Amount of filling – Potatoes with more cheese, bacon, etc may require more time
- Start temperature – Potatoes that are refrigerated will need longer than room temp potatoes
- Quantity – Reheating a batch takes longer than just one or two potatoes
- Moisture content – Drier potatoes reheat quicker than moist/wet potatoes
- Air fryer wattage – More watts means faster reheating
Taking these factors into account, the reheating time can range quite a bit but is generally between 3-10 minutes. The best way to determine doneness is by checking the temperature with a food thermometer and evaluating the crispness of the potato skin.
Recommended Reheat Time
For an average sized twice baked potato, around 4-6 ounces, the recommended reheat time is:
- Refrigerated: 5-7 minutes at 350°F
- Room Temperature: 3-5 minutes at 350°F
This time range will crisp up the potato skin nicely without overcooking the interior. Adjust cook time up or down as needed based on the size of your potatoes and your particular air fryer. Smaller potatoes may only need 3-4 minutes, while larger ones could need closer to 8-10 minutes if starting from refrigerated.
Tips for Reheating in an Air Fryer
Here are some tips to help reheating twice baked potatoes in an air fryer go smoothly:
- Brush potatoes with oil – Lightly coating in oil helps promote browning and crisping of the skin.
- Use oil spray – Spraying oil is an easy way to evenly distribute a light layer over potatoes.
- Preheat air fryer – Preheating helps start the crisping process right away.
- Don’t overcrowd – Leave space between potatoes for air circulation.
- Flip halfway – Flipping potatoes partway through reheating cooks both sides evenly.
- Check temperature – Use a food thermometer to confirm potatoes reach 165°F internally.
- Adjust time as needed – Add or reduce cook time based on potato size and desired crispness.
- Let rest 1-2 minutes – Allowing potatoes to rest helps set the skin and filling.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps for reheating twice baked potatoes in an air fryer:
- Preheat air fryer to 350°F.
- Lightly brush potatoes with oil or spray with oil. This helps promote browning and crisping.
- Place potatoes in air fryer basket, leaving space between each one. Do not overcrowd.
- Reheat for 5-7 minutes if refrigerated or 3-5 minutes if room temperature.
- Remove basket and carefully flip potatoes using tongs. Return to air fryer.
- Reheat for an additional 3-5 minutes until hot throughout and skin is crisped.
- Check internal temperature using a food thermometer. Temperature should reach 165°F.
- Allow to rest for 1-2 minutes before serving.
- Enjoy your hot, crispy reheated twice baked potatoes!
Additional Tips
- For best results, reheat within 3-4 days of initially baking the potatoes.
- Potatoes that were initially baked in the microwave will not reheat as well. Oven baked works best.
- If potatoes are too moist, blot with a paper towel before reheating.
- Cut larger potatoes in half before reheating for more even cooking.
- Add extra cheese or toppings after reheating so they don’t burn or dry out.
- Refrigerate within 2 hours of initial baking to prevent spoilage.
- Don’t keep refrigerated twice baked potatoes longer than 5 days.
FAQs
Should twice baked potatoes be covered while reheating in an air fryer?
No, do not cover twice baked potatoes while reheating in an air fryer. Leaving them uncovered allows the hot air to circulate and crisp up the potato skin. Covering can make the skin soggy.
Can you reheat twice baked potatoes from frozen?
It is best to thaw frozen twice baked potatoes in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Trying to reheat them from frozen will take much longer and can result in uneven cooking.
Is reheating in the microwave better than the air fryer?
No, reheating in the microwave often makes the potato skin soggy and less crisp. The hot air circulation of an air fryer does a much better job of crisping up the skin while heating through.
Do you need to add more filling before reheating?
That’s optional. If the potatoes seem dry, adding a sprinkle of extra cheese or sour cream before reheating can help moisten them. But additional filling isn’t necessary.
Can you reheat twice baked sweet potatoes in an air fryer?
Yes, the same reheating method works well for both regular and sweet potatoes. Follow the same guidelines for time and temperature.
Storing Leftovers
Here are some tips for storing leftover twice baked potatoes:
- Allow potatoes to cool completely before storing.
- Place in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
- Refrigerate within 2 hours of initial baking.
- Use within 3-4 days for best quality and freshness.
- Do not freeze twice baked potatoes as it alters the texture.
- Let refrigerated potatoes come to room temp before reheating for best results.
Nutrition Information
The nutrition information for a twice baked potato will vary depending on the size and filling ingredients used. Here are some general nutrition facts for a 6oz potato:
| Nutrition Facts | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Fat | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 24g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Sodium | 370mg |
Amounts will be higher or lower depending on added ingredients. Twice baked potatoes make a satisfying side with protein, fats, carbs, and nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.
Serving Ideas
Here are some delicious ways to serve reheated twice baked potatoes:
- Top with extra cheese, sour cream, bacon bits, or green onions.
- Make it a meal with chili, broccoli, or baked chicken breast.
- Use in place of a plain baked potato with steak or bbq ribs.
- For breakfast, top with eggs, sausage, and cheese.
- For a fun twist, scoop out the filling and serve in potato skins.
- Mash up with leftover mashed potatoes for loaded mashed potatoes.
- Garnish with fresh chives or dill for color and flavor.
Twice baked potatoes pair well with nearly any meat or seafood. They make a hearty, comforting side dish for everyday meals or special occasions.
Conclusion
Reheating twice baked potatoes in an air fryer is quick and easy. Allow 5-7 minutes if refrigerated or 3-5 minutes if room temp, flipping halfway. Brush potatoes with oil for a crisp skin. Check internal temperature and adjust time as needed based on size. Let rest before serving. Store leftovers in the fridge for 3-4 days. Twice baked potatoes can be served in a variety of delicious ways. Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, reheated twice baked potatoes make the perfect accompaniment to any meal.