Perfect Baked Potato Recipe

Introduction

A perfectly baked potato is a simple yet satisfying side dish that pairs well with just about anything. Crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, this classic baked potato recipe is easy to make and customize with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients

• 1 medium-to-large Russet potato, scrubbed clean of any dirt
• 1-2 teaspoons melted butter (or olive oil)
• Pinch of coarse Kosher salt
• Pinch of freshly-cracked black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat the oven to 450°F. Line a large baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. If you have a wire cooling rack, place it on top of the baking sheet.
2. Step 2: Using a fork or small paring knife, poke the potato at least 10 times all over. Place the potato on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Step 3: Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the baking sheet from the oven.
4. Step 4: Brush the potato on all sides with melted butter or olive oil using a pastry brush. Sprinkle with a generous pinch of Kosher salt. Place the potato back on the baking sheet with the reverse side facing up.
5. Step 5: Bake for another 20 minutes. Check doneness by gently squeezing the potato with an oven mitt; it should feel soft inside. If not, continue baking in 5-minute increments until tender.
6. Step 6: Slice the potato halfway through lengthwise using a small paring knife, then gently squeeze to open.
7. Step 7: Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crispy skin, leave the potato uncovered in the oven during baking.
• Try sprinkling garlic powder or smoked paprika on the potato before the second bake for added flavor.
• Use olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.

Storage

Store any leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes or microwave until heated through. The skin may soften when reheated in the microwave.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I bake other types of potatoes using this method?

Russet potatoes work best for baking due to their fluffy interior and thick skin, but Yukon Gold or other large potatoes can be used with slightly shorter baking times.

How do I know when the potato is fully cooked?

The potato is done when it feels soft inside when gently squeezed with an oven mitt. You can also test by inserting a fork or skewer; it should slide in easily without resistance.

Perfect Baked Potato Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 99 reviews

This classic baked potato recipe features a perfectly crispy skin and fluffy interior using simple ingredients and an easy oven baking method. Russet potatoes are scrubbed, poked, brushed with melted butter or olive oil, and seasoned with kosher salt and black pepper before being baked at high heat to achieve ideal texture. Serve this versatile side dish with your favorite toppings for a comforting and satisfying addition to any meal.

• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 1 baked potato 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Potato

• 1 medium-to-large Russet potato, scrubbed clean of any dirt

Seasoning

• 1–2 teaspoons melted butter (or olive oil)
• Pinch of coarse Kosher salt
• Pinch of freshly-cracked black pepper

Instructions

1. Heat the oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with foil or parchment paper. If available, place a wire cooling rack on top of the baking sheet for even cooking.
2. Prep the potato: Using a dinner fork or small paring knife, pierce the potato at least 10 times on all sides to allow steam to escape during baking. Place the potato on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack.
3. Bake (round one): Bake the potato in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to start the cooking process.
4. Brush with butter or oil: Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Using a pastry brush, coat the entire outside surface of the potato with melted butter or olive oil. Sprinkle generously with kosher salt to enhance flavor and texture. Place the potato back on the baking sheet with the reverse side up to promote even baking on all sides.
5. Bake (round two): Return the potato to the oven and bake for another 20 minutes. Check doneness by gently squeezing the potato with oven mitts; the potato should feel soft and give under pressure. If not fully cooked, continue baking in 5-minute increments until tender.
6. Cut the potato: Once the potato is fully cooked, use a small paring knife to slice halfway through the potato lengthwise. Gently squeeze the ends to open the potato for serving.
7. Serve: Serve the baked potato immediately with your desired toppings such as sour cream, chives, cheese, or bacon bits for a delicious side or meal.

Notes

• Use Russet potatoes for the best crispy skin and fluffy interior.
• Poking the potato several times ensures it cooks evenly and prevents bursting.
• Brushing with butter or olive oil before the second bake gives the skin a golden, crispy texture.
• Baking at 450°F produces a well-cooked interior with a nice crust, but watch carefully to avoid burning.
• If you prefer softer skin, you can wrap the potato in foil before baking, though this will reduce crispiness.
• Various toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, chives, bacon, or chili make great accompaniments.

Keywords: baked potato, crispy potato skin, oven baked potato, easy potato recipe, classic baked potato