Perfect Baked Potatoes Recipe
Baked potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs well with almost any meal. This simple recipe shows you how to achieve the perfect balance of crispy skin and fluffy interior. Top them with butter, cheese, sour cream, or your favorite fillings for a delicious meal or side.
Ingredients
- 4 large Russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the potatoes clean under running water and dry them thoroughly.
- Pierce each potato a few times with a fork. Rub the potatoes all over with olive oil and sprinkle generously with salt.
- Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Remove from the oven, slice open, and fluff the interior with a fork. Serve with your favorite toppings.
Tips
For extra crispy skin, bake the potatoes directly on the oven rack without wrapping them in foil. Adding a pinch of garlic powder to the olive oil before rubbing can enhance the flavor.
FAQs
- Can I bake potatoes in the microwave? Yes, you can microwave them for 5-8 minutes, but they won’t have the same crispy skin as oven-baked potatoes.
- Do I need to wrap the potatoes in foil? No, baking without foil gives you a crispier skin. If you prefer softer skin, wrap them in foil before baking.
- How do I store leftover baked potatoes? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- What are the best potatoes for baking? Russet potatoes are ideal due to their high starch content, which gives a fluffy interior.
Conclusion
This perfect baked potatoes recipe is easy to follow and results in crispy, flavorful skin with a fluffy inside. Whether served as a side or a main dish topped with your favorite ingredients, baked potatoes are always a satisfying choice. Enjoy them with cheese, sour cream, or any of your favorite toppings!
