Perfect Baked Potato

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Description

The Perfect Baked Potato is fluffy on the inside with a crispy, golden-brown skin on the outside. It’s one of the simplest yet most satisfying side dishes, versatile enough to serve alongside steaks, chicken, or as a standalone meal topped with cheese, sour cream, and chives. This recipe ensures your baked potato turns out restaurant-style every single time.

Ingredients For Perfect Baked Potato

  • 4 large russet potatoes (best for baking)

  • 2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)

  • 1 tbsp coarse salt (kosher or sea salt)

  • Optional toppings: butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, bacon bits, green onions, or chives

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven – Set to 425°F (220°C).

  2. Prepare Potatoes – Scrub potatoes thoroughly and dry them completely.

  3. Pierce Skin – Use a fork to poke each potato 5–6 times to allow steam to escape.

  4. Oil & Season – Rub each potato with olive oil (or butter) and sprinkle generously with salt.

  5. Bake – Place directly on the oven rack (with a tray underneath to catch drips) and bake for 45–60 minutes until skin is crisp and a fork easily slides into the center.

  6. Serve – Slice open, fluff with a fork, and add your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • Russet potatoes are ideal because of their starchy texture, which becomes fluffy when baked.

  • Baking directly on the oven rack gives the skin maximum crispiness.

  • If making multiple potatoes, try to choose ones similar in size so they cook evenly.

Tips

  • For extra crispy skin, brush with butter halfway through baking.

  • To speed things up, microwave the potato for 5 minutes first, then finish in the oven for 25–30 minutes.

  • Wrap in foil for a softer skin (but lose the crunch).

  • Don’t skip the salt rub—it enhances both the flavor and texture.

Servings

  • Recipe makes 4 baked potatoes.

  • Serving size: 1 potato per person.

Nutritional Info (per potato, without toppings)

  • Calories: ~220

  • Carbohydrates: 50g

  • Protein: 5g

  • Fat: 0.5g (before oil/butter)

  • Fiber: 4g

  • Vitamin C: 27% DV

  • Potassium: 25% DV

Benefits

  • Nutrient-rich: Packed with fiber, potassium, and vitamin C.

  • Energy-boosting: Provides long-lasting carbs for energy.

  • Customizable: Can be made low-fat (with yogurt/chives) or indulgent (with cheese & bacon).

  • Gluten-free & vegetarian friendly.

Q & A

Q: Can I bake sweet potatoes the same way?
A: Yes! Just reduce the time slightly (40–50 minutes) as they cook faster.

Q: Should I wrap the potato in foil?
A: Only if you prefer soft skin. For crispy skin, bake without foil.

Q: Can I make baked potatoes ahead of time?
A: Yes, bake them, cool, refrigerate, and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.

Q: What toppings go best with baked potatoes?
A: Classic options include butter, sour cream, cheese, bacon, and chives. For healthier choices, try Greek yogurt, salsa, steamed broccoli, or cottage cheese.

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