Perfectly Baked Potato

Name: Perfectly Baked Potato
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 65 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 4 large russet potatoes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon coarse salt; Optional toppings: butter, sour cream, cheese, chives, bacon bits

Master the art of making a classic baked potato with this simple guide.

Total time: 65 min
Yield: 4 servings
Difficulty: Easy

Prep 5mCook 60mDinner

Baking a potato might seem like a basic kitchen task, but achieving that perfect balance of a crispy skin and fluffy interior can be an art. Whether you're serving them as a side dish or a main course topped with all your favorite fixings, a well-baked potato is a crowd-pleaser.

This recipe will guide you through the straightforward steps to baking a potato that’s just right. It’s a versatile dish, allowing you to customize with toppings like butter, cheese, sour cream, or chives.

No fancy equipment is needed, just your trusty oven, and a little patience. Once you’ve mastered the baked potato, it can become your go-to for quick dinners or a satisfying snack.

01What you'll need

Ingredients

4 items · 4 servings

4 large russet potatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon coarse salt
Optional toppings: butter, sour cream, cheese, chives, bacon bits

02How to make it

Step-by-step

Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Give it time to reach the right temperature before starting with the potatoes.
Prepare the Potatoes
Wash the potatoes thoroughly under running water. Use a brush if needed to remove all dirt. Pat them dry with a towel.
Pierce and Oil
Use a fork to poke several holes into each potato. This helps steam escape during baking. Rub each potato with olive oil and sprinkle with coarse salt.
Bake the Potatoes
Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack. Bake for about 50 to 60 minutes. They’re done when a fork easily pierces through.
Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the potatoes from the oven. Slice each open and fluff with a fork. Add your choice of toppings and serve hot.

03From our kitchen

Cook's tips

You can bake the potatoes ahead of time and reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes.
Store leftover baked potatoes in the refrigerator wrapped in foil. They’ll be good for up to 3 days.
Swap olive oil with melted butter for a richer flavor.
If you prefer softer skins, wrap the potatoes in foil before baking.

Cook's note

Remember, baking times may vary based on the size of the potatoes and your specific oven, so check for doneness with a fork.

04Frequently asked

Questions & answers

Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes, but russet potatoes are best for baking due to their high starch content, which gives a fluffy texture.

Why do I need to pierce the potatoes?

Piercing allows steam to escape during baking, preventing the potato from bursting.

What if I don’t have olive oil?

You can use vegetable oil or melted butter as a substitute.

05Per serving

Nutrition Facts

4 servings

Amount per serving

Calories224

% Daily Value*

Total Fat7 g: 9%
Saturated Fat0.9 g: 5%
Cholesterol0 mg: 0%
Sodium1666 mg: 72%
Total Carbohydrate36 g: 13%
Dietary Fiber4.7 g: 17%
Total Sugars1.7 g
Protein4.3 g: 9%

Vitamin D0 mcg: 0%
Calcium26 mg: 2%
Iron1.7 mg: 9%
Potassium897 mg: 19%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Values are estimated from the ingredient list; actual amounts vary with brands, portion sizes, and substitutions.

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