How To Bake a Perfect Russet Potato Recipe
Introduction
Baking the perfect potato is simple and rewarding. With a crispy skin and fluffy interior, a baked potato makes a versatile side or a satisfying main when loaded with toppings.
Ingredients
- 4 russet potatoes, scrubbed
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for rubbing
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Pierce each potato all over with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Step 2: Rub each potato with extra-virgin olive oil, then generously season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Place them on a baking sheet or on a heatproof rack set inside a baking sheet.
- Step 3: Bake the potatoes in the oven until they are easily pierced with a fork and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center registers between 200°F and 205°F (93°C to 96°C), about 1 hour.
Tips & Variations
- For an ultra-crispy skin, finish the potatoes under the broiler for 2-3 minutes after baking.
- Try topping baked potatoes with sour cream, chives, cheese, or your favorite chili for a hearty meal.
- Use a fork to poke holes evenly to prevent potatoes from bursting in the oven.
Storage
Store leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to retain crispiness or microwave for a quicker option, though the skin may soften.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I bake potatoes at a lower temperature?
Yes, you can bake potatoes at 400°F, but it will take longer—usually about 1 hour and 15 minutes. The higher temperature helps achieve a crispier skin.
How do I know when a baked potato is done?
The best way is to insert a fork or skewer; it should slide in easily. Using an instant-read thermometer, the internal temperature should be between 200°F and 205°F for a fluffy interior.
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How To Bake a Perfect Russet Potato Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A classic baked potato recipe featuring crispy skin and fluffy interior, seasoned simply with olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper for the perfect side dish or base for toppings.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 4 russet potatoes, scrubbed
Seasoning
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for rubbing
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) to ensure it reaches a high temperature needed for crispy skin and fluffy inside.
- Prepare Potatoes: Pierce each potato all over with a fork to allow steam to escape. Rub each potato with extra-virgin olive oil, then generously season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Arrange Potatoes: Place the potatoes on a baking sheet or set them on a heatproof rack inside a baking sheet to allow air circulation around them for even baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and an instant-read thermometer inserted in the center reads between 200°F to 205°F, approximately 1 hour.
Notes
- Use russet potatoes for the best baking results due to their high starch content.
- Piercing the potatoes prevents them from bursting in the oven.
- For extra crispy skin, rub the potatoes well with oil and salt.
- You can test doneness by piercing with a fork or knife—should easily slide in without resistance.
- Let baked potatoes cool for a few minutes before serving to allow steam to settle inside.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: baked potato, oven-baked potato, crispy potato skin, easy side dish, russet potato
