Perfect Baked Potato Recipe
Introduction
A perfectly baked potato is crispy on the outside, light and fluffy on the inside,
and endlessly versatile. Whether served as a comforting side dish or loaded into a hearty
main meal, this classic recipe delivers simple perfection using just a few ingredients
and the right technique.
Ingredients
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon coarse salt (sea salt or kosher salt)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (optional)
Optional Toppings
- Butter
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheese
- Chopped chives or green onions
- Bacon bits
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Scrub the potatoes thoroughly under running water and pat them completely dry.
- Use a fork to pierce each potato 4–6 times to allow steam to escape.
- Rub each potato with olive oil and sprinkle evenly with salt and black pepper.
-
Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking tray.
Bake for 45–60 minutes, turning once halfway through,
until the skin is crisp and a fork slides easily into the center. - Remove from the oven, slice open, fluff the inside with a fork, and add desired toppings.
Description
This perfect baked potato features a golden, crackly skin with a tender, steamy interior.
The olive oil and salt enhance the natural flavor of the potato while creating a satisfying crunch.
It pairs wonderfully with meats, vegetables, or stands alone as a comforting meal.
Tips
- Russet potatoes are ideal due to their high starch content.
- Bake directly on the oven rack for crispier skins.
- For extra fluffiness, gently squeeze the potato ends after baking.
- Avoid wrapping potatoes in foil—it traps moisture and softens the skin.
Correction (Common Mistakes & Fixes)
- Potato too hard inside: Bake longer, checking every 10–15 minutes.
- Skin not crispy: Increase oven temperature slightly or bake uncovered.
- Bland flavor: Use enough salt on the skin to season properly.
Enjoy
Enjoy your Perfect Baked Potato as a simple side dish or fully loaded comfort food.
Easy, classic, and always satisfying—this is potato perfection at its best!
