Here’s a simple guide for making a perfect Baked Potato — fluffy inside, crispy outside, and versatile for toppings.
🥔 Baked Potato
Serves: 1–4 (depending on size)
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 50–60 min
Ingredients
- 4 medium russet potatoes (or desired amount)
- 1–2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- Salt, to taste
- Optional toppings: butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, chives, bacon bits
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Set oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare potatoes:
- Wash and scrub potatoes thoroughly.
- Pat dry.
- Pierce each potato several times with a fork.
- Rub with olive oil and sprinkle salt evenly.
- Bake:
- Place potatoes directly on the oven rack or a baking sheet.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until skin is crispy and a fork slides easily into the center.
- Serve:
- Remove from oven.
- Make a slit in the top and fluff the inside with a fork.
- Add your favorite toppings and serve hot.
🥔 Tips & Variations
- Microwave shortcut: Microwave a potato for 5–10 minutes to start, then bake 10–15 minutes in the oven for crispier skin.
- Crispier skin: Bake directly on the oven rack instead of a tray.
- Twice-baked: Scoop out the insides, mix with cheese, butter, and herbs, then refill the skins and bake again.
- Flavor boost: Rub potato skins with garlic powder, paprika, or herbs before baking.
I can also provide a quick 30-minute “crispy skin, fluffy inside” method for baked potatoes if you want a faster version.
