Perfect Baked Potato Recipe 🥔✨

 

“Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside – the ultimate baked potato!”

This classic Baked Potato recipe delivers restaurant-quality results at home. With a golden, crispy skin and soft, fluffy interior, it’s perfect for topping with your favorite ingredients like butter, sour cream, cheese, or bacon.

Ingredients

  • 4 large russet potatoes (the best for baking)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon coarse salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (optional)

Optional Toppings:

  • Butter
  • Sour cream
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Chives or green onions
  • Crumbled bacon
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Scrub the potatoes thoroughly to remove dirt. Pat them dry with a towel.
  3. Prick each potato a few times with a fork to allow steam to escape while baking.

Step 2: Season the Potatoes

  1. Rub each potato with olive oil to coat the skin.
  2. Sprinkle evenly with coarse salt and black pepper for flavor.

Step 3: Bake the Potatoes

  1. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack for the crispiest skin, or on a baking sheet lined with foil.
  2. Bake for 45–60 minutes, or until the skin is crisp and the insides are soft.
    • Check doneness: Insert a fork – it should slide in easily.

Step 4: Serve and Top

  1. Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes.
  2. Slice each potato lengthwise and fluff the insides with a fork.
  3. Add your favorite toppings: butter, sour cream, cheese, bacon, chives – get creative!

Tips for the Perfect Baked Potato

  • Potato Choice: Use russet potatoes for their starchy texture and fluffy interior.
  • Don’t Wrap in Foil: Wrapping traps moisture and prevents the skin from getting crispy.
  • Add Oil and Salt: Coating with oil and salt ensures a flavorful, crunchy skin.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve as a side dish with steak, grilled chicken, or salmon.
  • Make it a meal by loading it with chili, pulled pork, or roasted vegetables.
  • Pair with a light green salad for a balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes to maintain the crispiness.

Enjoy this Perfect Baked Potato as a simple side dish or a hearty, fully-loaded meal. With crispy skin and a fluffy center, it’s a timeless favorite that never disappoints! 🥔✨

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR