Is there anything simpler and more satisfying than a perfectly baked potato? The ideal baked potato has a salty, crisp skin and a soft, creamy interior. Here is an easy method to achieve that every time.
Ingredients Needed to Make Baked Potatoes
Only three simple ingredients are needed to make excellent baked potatoes.
- Baking Potatoes. Russet potatoes (often labeled as baking potatoes or Idaho potatoes) are the classic choice because they yield a fluffy interior.
- Coarse Salt. Kosher salt, coarse sea salt, or similar coarse-grain salts give the skin a crisp, flavorful crust.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Olive oil helps the skin crisp and adds a subtle, pleasant flavor. Vegetable or canola oil can be used if preferred.
How To Make Baked Potatoes
Place the potatoes in a large bowl and drizzle each with olive oil. Rub the oil over the skins with your fingers until the potatoes are evenly coated.
Use a sharp knife to poke several holes in each potato. Turn the potatoes as you make the cuts so there are 8–10 holes spaced around each potato. These holes let steam escape while baking.
Sprinkle a generous amount of coarse salt over the potatoes, turning them so the salt adheres to the oil-coated skins.
The coarse salt forms a crunchy, flavorful exterior that contrasts nicely with the fluffy interior.
Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil or parchment and place a baking rack inside. Laying the potatoes on a rack allows hot air to circulate and helps the skin crisp evenly.
Arrange the potatoes on the rack and slide the sheet into a preheated oven.
Bake the potatoes until a fork or knife slides into the center without resistance. The skin will turn a deep brown and become crinkly.
Be careful when cutting into a freshly baked potato—the steam inside is very hot.
Topping Ideas for Baked Potatoes
A perfectly baked potato is delicious with just butter (or vegan butter), salt, and pepper. It also makes a great base for a range of toppings.
Classic toppings include melted cheddar, a dollop of sour cream, and chopped chives. For a heartier option, top potatoes with pulled pork, carnitas, or a spicy green chili. Miso butter is another excellent choice—combine miso and butter for a quick spread that adds deep umami flavor.
Baked potatoes are also ideal for using leftovers. Load them with roasted vegetables, shredded meats, or beans to create satisfying meals with minimal effort.
Serving suggestions
Baked potatoes pair beautifully with grilled or roasted meats. They’re a classic side with a perfectly cooked steak and also complement roast chicken, slow-cooked tri-tip, or pork tenderloin.
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FAQs
Potatoes contain water that turns to steam during baking. Poking holes lets steam escape and reduces the small risk of a potato bursting in the oven.
Yes. Potatoes do not contain gluten proteins found in wheat, rye, or barley, so plain baked potatoes are gluten free.
Yes. Pierce the potatoes, coat them with oil and salt, then air fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 30 minutes. Test with a fork and add 5–8 minutes if needed until tender.
📖 Recipe
Perfect Baked Potatoes
5 minutes
1 hour
1 hour 5 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 russet potatoes, scrubbed clean
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Coarse ground salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil or parchment and place a baking rack inside the sheet.
- Place the potatoes in a large bowl and drizzle about 1 tablespoon of olive oil over each. Rub the oil over the skins to coat completely. Poke 8–10 holes in each potato, turning them so there are holes on all sides.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of coarse salt over each potato, turning them so the salt adheres to all sides.
- Place the potatoes on the rack in the baking sheet and put the pan in the oven.
- Bake until the potatoes are tender. Medium potatoes take about 60 minutes; larger potatoes may take longer. Test with a fork: when it slides in easily, the potatoes are done.
Notes
- Freshly baked potatoes are very hot—take care to avoid steam burns when cutting into them.
Recommended Products
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Commercial Quality Cookie Sheet and Rack – Aluminum Half Sheet Baking Pan and Stainless Steel Cooling Rack Set
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
2
Serving Size:
1
Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 257Total Fat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 2139mgCarbohydrates: 37gFiber: 4gSugar: 2gProtein: 5g
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