How to Bake the Perfect Potato
Discover the secret to baking the perfect potato with this foolproof recipe that transforms simple russet potatoes into crispy-skinned, fluffy-centered perfection. By combining just a handful of pantry staples—like olive oil, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper—this method ensures a beautifully textured exterior with a soft, steamy interior that’s perfect for soaking up butter or your favorite toppings. With minimal prep and straightforward instructions, baking the ideal potato has never been easier. Whether topped with classic options like sour cream and chives or loaded with shredded cheese and bacon bits, this versatile recipe is a must-know for weeknight dinners, hearty side dishes, or satisfying meal prep.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 large Russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Kosher salt
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper
- to taste Optional toppings (e.g., sour cream, chives, shredded cheese, bacon bits)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and position the rack in the middle of the oven.
Wash and scrub the russet potatoes under cold running water to remove dirt. Dry thoroughly with a clean cloth or paper towel.
Using a fork, poke several holes into each potato (5-6 times all over) to allow steam to escape while cooking.
Rub each potato with olive oil, ensuring the skin is evenly coated. This helps the skin crisp up during baking.
Sprinkle kosher salt generously over the oiled potatoes, making sure all sides are covered for flavor and texture.
Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for approximately 50-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Larger potatoes may require an additional 5-10 minutes.
Carefully remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes. Use tongs to avoid burning your hands.
Make a slit lengthwise down the top of each potato and gently press the ends together to expose the fluffy interior.
Add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to each potato and season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Serve immediately with your choice of toppings such as sour cream, chives, shredded cheese, and bacon bits.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
454 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 19.8 g | 25% | |
| Saturated Fat | 9.1 g | 46% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 35 mg | 12% | |
| Sodium | 464 mg | 20% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 61.2 g | 22% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.4 g | 16% | |
| Total Sugars | 3.1 g | ||
| Protein | 7.9 g | 16% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 46 mg | 4% | |
| Iron | 1.9 mg | 10% | |
| Potassium | 1476 mg | 31% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
