Name: Perfect Baked Potato Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 4 Baking Potatoes (Make sure they are all similar in size.); 2 tbsp Olive oil; to taste Salt (I prefer to use a coarser sea salt.)

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There’s something undeniably comforting about a perfectly baked potato. It brings me back to chilly evenings spent with family, gathering around the table for a meal that felt warm and inviting. The Perfect Baked Potato Recipe is one of those classic dishes that never fails to satisfy. Whether you’re serving it as a side for your favorite protein or piling it high with toppings for a hearty meal, a baked potato is always a hit. I remember my grandmother teaching me how to make them; she insisted on using only the freshest potatoes and a generous sprinkle of salt. Her secret? A little bit of love goes a long way in the kitchen. As the aroma of baking potatoes fills your home, you can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia and anticipation.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 5 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
60 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
210 kcal

Protein:
5 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
0 g

Tools Used:
Baking Sheet, Oven

Why This Perfect Baked Potato Recipe Is So Good

Easy to Make

One of the things I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that feels indulgent. All you need are some good-quality potatoes, olive oil, and salt. It’s a no-fuss recipe that allows you to focus on other aspects of your meal while the oven does the magic.

Versatile Toppings

The Perfect Baked Potato Recipe serves as a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. You can top it with anything from classic butter and sour cream to more adventurous toppings like broccoli and cheese or spicy chili. The options are truly endless, making it easy to cater to everyone’s tastes.

Health Benefits

Did you know that baked potatoes are a great source of vitamins and minerals? They pack a punch of nutrients, including potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber. Enjoying a baked potato means you’re nourishing your body while satisfying your cravings.

Perfect Side Dish

This dish is the ultimate side for any meal. From a backyard barbecue to a cozy family dinner, a baked potato complements a variety of mains. It provides a hearty foundation to balance lighter dishes or can be dressed up to star as the main course.

Great for Meal Prep

If you’re like me and love meal prepping, this recipe is perfect. You can bake a batch of potatoes ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Simply reheat them when you’re ready to eat, and you’ll have an instant side dish that’s delicious and filling.

Kid-Friendly

Kids love baked potatoes because they can customize their meals. Let them choose their favorite toppings, and you’ll have a fun, interactive dinner that they’ll enjoy. Plus, it’s a great way to encourage them to eat their vegetables!

Perfect Baked Potato Recipe Ingredients

The ingredients for the Perfect Baked Potato Recipe are simple yet effective. Each component plays a vital role in ensuring you achieve that fluffy, tender interior and crispy skin. The key players here are potatoes and olive oil—these two ingredients work together beautifully to create the perfect baked potato.

Baking Potatoes: 4 – Make sure they are all similar in size to ensure even cooking.
Olive Oil: 2 tbsp – Brushing the potatoes with olive oil adds flavor and helps create that crispy skin.

Salt: To taste – A good sprinkle of salt enhances the flavor, and I prefer to use a coarser sea salt for texture.

Making Perfect Baked Potato Recipe

Making the Perfect Baked Potato Recipe is a delightful experience. Get ready to transform simple potatoes into a mouthwatering side dish that everyone will love. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be pleased with the results. Let’s dive into the process!

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. This is an important first step to ensure your potatoes cook evenly and thoroughly.

Scrub the potatoes under running water to remove all the dirt. It’s essential to clean them well, as the skin is where the flavor is!
Pat the potatoes dry with a paper towel. A dry surface helps the olive oil stick better and leads to crispier skin.
Using a fork, carefully pierce the potatoes two to three times per side. This allows steam to escape during baking and prevents them from bursting.

Brush the whole potato with olive oil, ensuring an even coating. This step is key to achieving that golden, crispy exterior.
Sprinkle the tops with salt. Be generous, as it enhances the flavor and texture!
Place them directly on the middle rack of the oven. A tip is to use a foil-lined baking sheet underneath to catch any drips.

Bake for 45 to 60 minutes, depending on the size of your potatoes. They’re done when a fork can pierce them with little resistance.
Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool for 5 to 10 minutes. This cooling time makes them easier to handle when you’re ready to dig in!

Things Worth Knowing

Choose the Right Potatoes: Opt for starchy potatoes like Russets or Idaho for the best texture.

Don’t Skip the Piercing: Piercing the potatoes is crucial to prevent them from bursting in the oven.
Resting Time Matters: Allow your potatoes to cool before handling to prevent burns.
Experiment with Seasoning: Feel free to add spices or herbs to the olive oil for an extra flavor punch.

Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked potatoes, the internal temperature should reach 210 degrees F.

Change It Up

If you’re looking to customize your Perfect Baked Potato Recipe, here are some fantastic tips to elevate your dish. These ideas will help you add variety and creativity to your baked potatoes.

Storage: Store leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.

Freezing: Yes, you can freeze baked potatoes! Just wrap them in foil and place them in a freezer bag for up to three months.
Pairing: Serve your baked potatoes with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad to complete your meal.
Variations: Try topping your baked potatoes with different ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, cheese, or chili for a more filling option.

Creative Toppings: Think outside the box with toppings like avocado, Greek yogurt, or even a drizzle of pesto for a fresh twist.

Accompaniments for Perfect Baked Potato Recipe

Serving the Perfect Baked Potato Recipe opens up a world of possibilities. Here are some great ideas to pair with your delicious baked potatoes.

Grilled Chicken: A simple grilled chicken breast makes for a hearty and balanced meal.

Steak: Pairing your baked potato with a juicy steak is a classic combination that never disappoints.
Vegetable Stir Fry: For a lighter option, serve your baked potato alongside a colorful vegetable stir fry.
Chili: Top your baked potato with a warm bowl of chili for a comfort food experience.

Salad: A fresh garden salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty potato.
Seasonal Flavors: In the fall, consider topping your potatoes with roasted squash or in winter, think of using hearty greens.
Occasions: These baked potatoes are perfect for casual family dinners, potlucks, or even as a side for holiday feasts.

FAQ

The best type of potatoes for baking are starchy varieties like Russets or Idaho potatoes. These types have a high starch content, which results in a fluffy interior when baked. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they tend to be more moist and can end up gummy rather than fluffy. If you’re aiming for that perfect texture, choose good-quality baking potatoes that feel firm and heavy for their size. Always remember, the fresher the potato, the better your results will be!

You can tell when your baked potatoes are done by inserting a fork into the center. If it easily goes through with little resistance, they are ready to come out of the oven. The skin should also feel crispy. Another method is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach about 210 degrees F. Remember to let them cool a bit before handling!

Absolutely! You can prepare baked potatoes in advance. Bake a batch, let them cool completely, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When you’re ready to eat them, just reheat in the oven or microwave. This makes them a great option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a quick and satisfying side dish or main course without the hassle!

The possibilities for toppings on a baked potato are endless! Classic options include sour cream, cheese, green onions, or bacon bits. If you want something healthier, try toppings like Greek yogurt, steamed broccoli, or a drizzle of olive oil with herbs. For a twist, consider chili, pulled pork, or even a fresh salsa. Let your creativity shine and make the Perfect Baked Potato Recipe your own!

Conclusion

The Perfect Baked Potato Recipe is not just a side dish; it’s a canvas for creativity and comfort. With its crispy skin and fluffy interior, it’s a dish that satisfies both the stomach and the soul. I encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own. Experiment with toppings and flavors, and enjoy the warmth it brings to your dining table.

Perfect Baked Potato Recipe

The ultimate comfort food, the Perfect Baked Potato Recipe is crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. With simple ingredients and endless topping possibilities, it’s an easy weeknight dinner that everyone will love. Make it tonight for a satisfying meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 1

Total Time 1 5

Course Side Dishes

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 210 kcal

Equipment

Baking Sheet
Oven

Ingredients

4 Baking Potatoes Make sure they are all similar in size.
2 tbsp Olive oil
to taste Salt I prefer to use a coarser sea salt.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. This is an important first step to ensure your potatoes cook evenly and thoroughly.
Scrub the potatoes under running water to remove all the dirt. It's essential to clean them well, as the skin is where the flavor is!
Pat the potatoes dry with a paper towel. A dry surface helps the olive oil stick better and leads to crispier skin.

Using a fork, carefully pierce the potatoes two to three times per side. This allows steam to escape during baking and prevents them from bursting.
Brush the whole potato with olive oil, ensuring an even coating. This step is key to achieving that golden, crispy exterior.
Sprinkle the tops with salt. Be generous, as it enhances the flavor and texture!

Place them directly on the middle rack of the oven. A tip is to use a foil-lined baking sheet underneath to catch any drips.
Bake for 45 to 60 minutes, depending on the size of your potatoes. They’re done when a fork can pierce them with little resistance.
Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool for 5 to 10 minutes. This cooling time makes them easier to handle when you’re ready to dig in!

Notes

Tip 1: Run a knife lengthwise across the salted top, leaving about 1/2 inch on both sides.
Tip 2: Using both hands, pinch each side of the potato.
Tip 3: While pinching, push towards the center of the potato, forcing it to open up.