Baked Potato

Here’s a simple and foolproof method for making the perfect Baked Potato — crispy skin on the outside, fluffy and tender inside. Plus, I’ll include topping ideas to suit everything from comfort food cravings to full meal-worthy spuds.

🥔 Perfect Baked Potato

🕒 Prep Time: 5 min | Bake Time: 45–60 min

Serves: 4 (easily scaled up or down)

🍴 Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes (best for baking)

• 1–2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter

• Kosher salt

🔪 Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Prep Potatoes:

   • Scrub potatoes clean and pat completely dry.

   • Prick each potato 4–5 times with a fork (lets steam escape).

   • Rub all over with olive oil or butter, then sprinkle generously with kosher salt.

3. Bake Directly on Oven Rack (for crispier skin):
   Place potatoes directly on the middle rack, with a baking sheet below to catch any drips. Bake for 45–60 minutes, depending on size. Potatoes are done when:

   • Skins are crispy

   • A knife slides in easily (like butter)

   • Internal temp is around 210°F (99°C)

4. Serve:
   Slice open and fluff the inside with a fork. Add toppings of choice (see below).

🍽️ Topping Ideas:

🔹 Classic:

• Butter

• Sour cream

• Shredded cheddar

• Chopped green onions or chives

• Bacon bits

• Salt & pepper

🔹 Loaded Meal:

• Pulled pork or shredded BBQ chicken

• Chili and shredded cheese

• Steamed broccoli + cheese sauce

• Taco meat + salsa + avocado

🔹 Light & Fresh:

• Greek yogurt instead of sour cream

• Fresh herbs (parsley, dill)

• Cottage cheese and cracked pepper

• Roasted veggies

🔄 Alternate Cooking Methods:

• Microwave First, Finish in Oven:
  Microwave potatoes 5–6 minutes (flipping halfway), then transfer to a 450°F oven for 10–15 minutes to crisp the skin.

• Air Fryer:
  Cook at 400°F for 35–45 minutes. Super crispy skin guaranteed.

Would you like a sweet potato version or instructions for baked potato wedges?