Perfect Baked Potato Recipe
Introduction
Nothing beats a perfectly baked potato with crispy skin and a fluffy interior. This simple recipe highlights how easy it is to achieve that classic texture and taste right in your oven. Ready in under an hour, it’s a versatile side or satisfying meal base.
Ingredients
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- Extra-virgin olive oil
- Sea salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2: Use a fork to poke a few holes into each potato. Place the potatoes on the baking sheet, rub them all over with olive oil, and sprinkle liberally with sea salt.
- Step 3: Bake for 45 to 60 minutes, until the potatoes are fork-tender and the skin is crisp.
- Step 4: Slice open each potato, fluff the insides with a fork, and add your favorite toppings before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crispy skin, use coarse sea salt or kosher salt when seasoning.
- Try wrapping the potatoes in foil for softer skin, but note that it will not be crispy.
- Top with sour cream, chives, cheese, or bacon bits for classic flavors.
- Use sweet potatoes instead of russets for a different twist, adjusting baking time accordingly.
Storage
Store leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes to help regain crispness, or microwave for quicker warming but softer skin.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I bake the potatoes in advance?
Yes, you can bake them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat thoroughly before serving for best texture.
Why should I poke holes in the potatoes?
Poking holes allows steam to escape during baking, preventing the potatoes from bursting in the oven.
PrintPerfect Baked Potato Recipe
This perfect baked potato recipe ensures a crispy skin and fluffy interior by roasting russet potatoes in the oven with olive oil and sea salt. Ideal as a comforting side dish or a base for your favorite toppings, these baked potatoes are simple to prepare and deliciously satisfying.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 to 60 minutes
- Total Time: 55 to 70 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 4 medium russet potatoes
Seasoning
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for rubbing
- Sea salt, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Prepare the potatoes: Use a fork to poke several holes all over each potato to allow steam to escape during baking. Place the potatoes on the prepared baking sheet.
- Oil and season: Rub each potato evenly with extra-virgin olive oil, making sure the skins are coated. Sprinkle sea salt liberally over the entire surface of the potatoes to enhance flavor and help crisp the skin.
- Bake the potatoes: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 60 minutes, until the potatoes are fork-tender when pierced and have a crisp, golden-brown skin.
- Serve: Remove potatoes from the oven, slice them open lengthwise, fluff the insides gently with a fork, and serve immediately with your choice of toppings such as butter, sour cream, cheese, chives, or bacon bits.
Notes
- Use russet potatoes for the best texture—fluffy inside with a crispy skin.
- Poking holes in the potatoes prevents them from bursting while baking.
- For extra crispy skin, don’t skip rubbing the potatoes with olive oil and salt.
- Baking time may vary depending on the size of the potatoes; check for tenderness with a fork.
- Feel free to customize your toppings to suit your taste preferences.
Keywords: baked potato, crispy baked potato, how to bake potatoes, oven baked potato, russet potato recipe, easy baked potato
