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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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Find it online: https://tastewithamy.com/perfect-baked-potato-recipe/