- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly.
- Dry completely with a paper towel.
- Poke 4–5 holes in each potato using a fork to allow steam to escape.
Step 2: Season the Potatoes
- Rub each potato with olive oil or melted butter for crispy skin.
- Sprinkle evenly with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Bake the Potatoes
- Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack for crispy skin (or use a baking sheet).
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, turning once halfway through.
- Check for doneness by inserting a fork—it should slide in easily.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
- Slice open, fluff the inside with a fork, and add your favorite toppings!
Serving & Storage Tips
- Serve hot with butter, sour cream, cheese, or any toppings you love.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or microwave for 2 minutes.
Variants & Customizations
- Garlic Herb Baked Potato – Rub with garlic powder and rosemary before baking.
- Cheesy Loaded Baked Potato – Top with melted cheddar, bacon, and green onions.
- Twice-Baked Potato – Scoop out, mix with butter, cheese, and bacon, then rebake.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes – Swap russet potatoes for sweet potatoes and add honey butter.
FAQ
1. How do I get extra crispy potato skin?
✔️ Use coarse sea salt, bake directly on the rack, and avoid wrapping in foil.
2. Can I bake potatoes faster?
✔️ Yes! Microwave for 5 minutes before baking to reduce cooking time.
3. Can I make baked potatoes in an air fryer?
✔️ Absolutely! Air-fry at 400°F (200°C) for 40 minutes, flipping halfway.
4. What’s the best potato for baking?
✔️ Russet potatoes are best because of their starchy, fluffy texture.
5. Can I wrap potatoes in foil?
✔️ You can, but it steams them instead of making them crispy. If using foil, bake unwrapped for the last 10 minutes.
Final Thoughts
This perfect baked potato recipe delivers a crispy exterior and fluffy inside, making it a versatile and satisfying dish. Whether classic, loaded, or with a twist, it’s an easy way to elevate any meal!