Perfect Baked Potato Recipe

 

Perfect Baked Potato is crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, making it an ideal side dish or a meal on its own when topped with your favorite ingredients. With just a few simple steps, you can achieve a baked potato that’s tender, flavorful, and perfectly cooked every time. This classic recipe is versatile and works well with a variety of toppings, from butter and sour cream to cheese and bacon.

Ingredients
4 large russet potatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon coarse salt

Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Scrub the potatoes thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt.
Pat the potatoes dry with a paper towel.
Using a fork, poke holes all over each potato to allow steam to escape during baking.
BakingBaked potato

Step 3: Season the Potatoes
Rub each potato with olive oil until evenly coated.
Sprinkle the potatoes with coarse salt, ensuring all sides are well seasoned.

Step 4: Bake the Potatoes
Place the potatoes directly on the middle oven rack, with a baking sheet placed on the rack below to catch any drips.
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 5: Serve
Remove the baked potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
Slice each potato open lengthwise and fluff the inside with a fork.
Add your favorite toppings and serve hot.

Cooking Tips & Notes

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Cooking Tips & Notes

Potato Selection: Use russet potatoes for the best results, as they have a high starch content that makes them ideal for baking.
Crispy Skin: For extra crispy skin, bake the potatoes without wrapping them in foil. Foil traps moisture, making the skin softer.
Even Baking: Make sure the potatoes are similar in size so they cook evenly.
Baked potato Baking

Variations

Garlic Herb Baked Potatoes: Rub the potatoes with minced garlic and dried herbs along with the olive oil for extra flavor.
Cheesy Stuffed Potatoes: After baking, scoop out the insides and mix with shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions. Stuff the mixture back into the skins and bake for an additional 10 minutes.

Loaded Baked Potatoes: Top with sour cream, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped chives for a classic loaded potato.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Use Foil to Wrap the Potatoes?
Yes, you can wrap the potatoes in foil, but keep in mind that this will result in softer skin rather than a crispy texture. Cheese Stuffed Potatoes

2. How Do I Store Leftover Baked Potatoes?
Store leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

3. Can I Bake Potatoes in Advance?
Yes, you can bake potatoes in advance and reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes before serving.

4. How Do I Know When the Potatoes Are Done?
The potatoes are done when they are tender and a fork can be easily inserted into the center. The internal temperature should be around 210°F (99°C).

Serving Suggestions

With Butter and Sour Cream: Keep it simple with butter, sour cream, salt, and pepper for a classic baked potato.

Chili Topping: Top with homemade chili, shredded cheese, and diced onions for a hearty meal.
Broccoli and Cheese: Add steamed broccoli and melted cheddar cheese for a delicious and nutritious topping.

A Perfect Baked Potato is a simple yet versatile dish that pairs well with almost anything. Whether served as a side or as a main dish topped with your favorite ingredients, this baked potato recipe delivers consistently fluffy and flavorful results. Try this easy recipe, and enjoy the comforting taste of a perfectly baked potato every time!