š„ Homemade Baked Potatoes
Crispy on the outside, fluffy and tender insideāthis simple method works beautifully for a classic baked potato.
Ingredients
- 4 medium-to-large russet potatoes
- 1ā2 tbsp olive oil
- Ā½ tsp salt
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: butter, shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, chives, or cooked bacon
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 425Ā°F (220Ā°C).
- Wash and dry the potatoes thoroughly. Pierce each potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape.
- Coat with oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Bake directly on the oven rack (or on a baking sheet) for about 45ā60 minutes, depending on size.
- They’re ready when the skin is crisp and a fork slides easily into the center.
- Cut them open immediately and gently fluff the inside with a fork.
- Add your favorite toppings and serve hot.
ā For extra-crispy skin
Make sure the potatoes are completely dry before adding the oil, and don’t wrap them in foil. Foil traps steam and produces softer rather than crisp skin.
Easy topping: Butter + cheddar cheese + sour cream + chopped green onions makes a delicious classic combination.
