Hey y’all! If you’re craving that comforting, restaurant-style baked potato with supremely crispy skin and a lusciously fluffy center, you’re in for a treat. The perfect baked potato is a beloved side that fits any occasion, from cozy weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. With just a handful of ingredients and these foolproof steps, you can elevate a humble potato into a savory masterpiece. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Perfect Baked Potato
- Incredibly crispy skin with a soft, fluffy interior every time.
- Simple ingredients you already have in your pantry.
- Great canvas for endless toppings and personalized flavors.
- Perfect for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or special occasions.
- Gluten-free, vegetarian, and naturally satisfying.
Perfect Baked Potato Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes (about 10 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
How to Make the Perfect Baked Potato
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Scrub the russet potatoes under running water and pat them completely dry with a towel.
Step 2: Season Potato Skins
Prick each potato 5-6 times all over with a fork. Rub each potato with olive oil, then sprinkle with kosher salt and black pepper until evenly coated. This gives the skin that irresistible crunch.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Arrange potatoes directly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes. Halfway through, flip each potato to promote even crispiness on all sides. The potatoes are done when a fork slides in easily and the skin is golden brown and crisp.
Step 4: Serve
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Make a lengthwise slit at the top of each potato, gently squeeze the ends to open, and fluff the inside with a fork. Add your favorite toppings and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Notes on Perfect Baked Potato Making
- Be sure to use russet (Idaho) potatoes for their starchy texture; learn more about potato types.
- Let the potatoes dry completely before adding oil for crispier skin.
- Try using coarse sea salt for an extra pop of flavor and crunch!
Perfect Baked Potato Variations
- Loaded Baked Potato: Top with cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, sour cream, and chopped scallions.
- Garlic Herb: Mix minced garlic and herbs like rosemary and thyme into the olive oil before rubbing on potatoes.
- Vegan Delight: Pile on roasted veggies and a dollop of dairy-free cashew cream.
Equipment Needed for Perfect Baked Potato
- Baking sheet
- Foil or parchment paper
- Fork
- Mixing bowl (for oil and seasoning)
- Tongs (optional, for flipping)
Perfect Baked Potato Storage Instructions
Allow leftover potatoes to cool completely, then wrap each tightly in foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving for crispy skins.
Perfect Baked Potato Pairings and Serving Ideas
- Serve alongside juicy steaks, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables.
- Pair with a fresh garden salad or a hearty bowl of chili.
- Top with shredded cheese, steamed broccoli, chives, or your favorite fixings for a complete meal.
Pro Tips for the Best Baked Potato
- Always prick potatoes before baking to prevent bursting in the oven (find more baking tips at Food Network).
- For an extra crunchy skin, finish the potatoes with a few minutes under the broiler.
- Avoid wrapping potatoes in foil during baking; it steams rather than crisps the skin (see more science at Serious Eats).
Perfect Baked Potato FAQ
- Q: Can I bake potatoes ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Store in the fridge and reheat in the oven to maintain crispness. - Q: Are Yukon golds good for baking?
A: Yukon golds yield a creamier, denser texture; stick with russets for fluffy baked potatoes. - Q: Can I microwave instead of bake?
A: You can, but you won’t get that signature crisp skin; baking is best for the perfect baked potato.
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Butter, for serving
- Sour cream, for serving
- Chopped chives, for garnish
Instructions
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1Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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2Scrub the potatoes thoroughly under cold water and pat them dry.
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3Pierce each potato several times with a fork. Rub potatoes all over with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
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4Place potatoes on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 60 minutes, or until the skin is crisp and a fork easily pierces the inside.
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5Remove from oven. Slit each potato open and fluff the insides with a fork. Top with butter, sour cream, and chopped chives as desired.
CLICK FOR NUTRITION INFO
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Approximate Information for One Serving
Serving Size:
1 serving
Calories:
265 caloriescal
Protein:
5 gg
Fat:
6 gg
Saturated Fat:
0g
Trans Fat:
0g
Cholesterol:
0mg
Sodium:
0mg
Potassium:
0mg
Total Carbs:
48 gg
Fiber:
0g
Sugar:
0g
Net Carbs:
0g
Vitamin A:
0
Vitamin C:
0mg
Calcium:
0mg
Iron:
0mg
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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