Description
A Perfect Baked Potato has a crisp, salty skin and a fluffy interior that’s ready for all your favorite toppings. This no-shortcuts method delivers classic oven-baked goodness every time—ideal as a comforting side or customizable main.
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes, cleaned and dried
- 1–2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 1–2 tsp kosher salt
- Optional toppings: butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, chives, black pepper, steamed broccoli, chili, etc.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment.
- Scrub potatoes clean and dry thoroughly with a towel.
- Prick each potato 3–4 times with a fork to allow steam to escape.
- Rub potatoes with olive oil or butter, then sprinkle generously with kosher salt.
- Place potatoes directly on the baking sheet and bake for 45–60 minutes, depending on size, until skins are crisp and a fork slides in easily.
- Let rest for a few minutes, then slice open and fluff insides with a fork.
- Top as desired and serve warm.
Notes
- Add garlic powder or smoked paprika for extra flavor on the skin.
- For crispier skin, bake directly on the oven rack without a tray.
- Use the same method for sweet potatoes.
- Make stuffed potatoes by mixing scooped centers with cheese and sour cream, then rebaking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 potato
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
