Description
This Perfect Baked Potato recipe delivers fluffy, tender potatoes with crisp skins, ideal as a comforting side dish or a versatile base for your favorite toppings. Simple ingredients and straightforward steps ensure delicious results every time.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 4 large russet potatoes
Seasoning and Toppings
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- Sea salt, to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) with one rack in the middle position and another one in the lower position to catch drips.
- Prepare the potatoes: Wash the potatoes thoroughly with a stiff brush to remove dirt, then pat them dry. Use a fork to poke each potato 8–12 times, about 1 inch deep all over the surface, allowing steam to escape during baking. Lightly brush the entire skin of each potato with extra virgin olive oil to enhance crispiness.
- Arrange potatoes in the oven: Place the prepared potatoes directly on the middle oven rack for even baking. Position a sheet pan on the lower rack underneath to catch any liquids that may drip out during cooking, preventing oven mess.
- Bake the potatoes: Bake for approximately 1 hour, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a knife. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on potato size. Once done, transfer the potatoes to a cutting board and allow them to cool for 5 minutes to make handling easier.
- Serve the potatoes: To serve, cut each potato lengthwise from end to end, then gently squeeze one end toward the other to fluff the interior. Top with salted butter, sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper to taste for a classic and satisfying finish.
Notes
- For crisper skin, you can increase the oven temperature to 400°F in the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Russet potatoes are best for baking due to their starchy texture and thick skin.
- Feel free to add toppings like sour cream, chives, cheese, or bacon bits for variation.
- Ensure potatoes are similar in size for even cooking.
- Letting potatoes rest after baking helps the steam redistribute, making them fluffier inside.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
