1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
   • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This helps start the cooking process right away and ensures even cooking.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
   • Scrub the potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a kitchen towel.
   • Using a fork, pierce each potato a few times all over. This allows steam to escape during cooking.
   • Rub each potato with olive oil, making sure they are evenly coated.
   • Sprinkle sea salt and black pepper over the potatoes, rubbing it into the skin for added flavor.
3. Air Fry the Potatoes:
   • Place the prepared potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. This allows the hot air to circulate and cook the potatoes evenly.
   • Cook the potatoes at 400°F (200°C) for 35-40 minutes. Halfway through cooking, flip the potatoes to ensure even crisping on all sides.
   • To check if the potatoes are done, insert a fork or knife into the center; it should go in easily without resistance, and the inside should be tender.
4. Serve:
   • Once the potatoes are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes.
   • Slice the potatoes open lengthwise and fluff the insides with a fork.
   • Add a pat of butter and sprinkle with chopped green onions or chives if desired.
   • Serve with your favorite toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, or bacon bits.

Tips for Success:

• Choosing the Right Potato: Russet potatoes are ideal for baking due to their high starch content, which gives a light and fluffy interior.
• Even Cooking: Ensure that the potatoes are similar in size so they cook evenly. If you have different-sized potatoes, the smaller ones will cook faster, so you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Extra Crispy Skin: For even crispier skin, you can spray the potatoes with a little more oil halfway through cooking.
• Toppings: Experiment with different toppings like garlic butter, chili, or a drizzle of ranch dressing for added flavor.

Enjoy your crispy, fluffy air fryer baked potatoes as a versatile side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal!