A classic comfort food, the baked potato is simple, satisfying, and incredibly versatile. Whether served as a hearty side dish or loaded up as a main course, this humble dish brings crispy skin and a fluffy interior to the table every time. With minimal ingredients and effort, it’s a staple in any home cook’s repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked potatoes offer the perfect canvas for a wide array of toppings—from butter and sour cream to cheese, bacon, and chives. They require just a few ingredients and very little preparation time, making them ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The method is foolproof and produces consistent results every time: crisp on the outside, soft and steamy on the inside.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Russet potatoes

• Olive oil or melted butter

• Salt

• Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped chives, crumbled bacon, black pepper

directions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Scrub the potatoes under running water and pat them dry with a towel.

3. Prick each potato a few times with a fork to allow steam to escape while baking.

4. Rub the potatoes with olive oil or melted butter and sprinkle with salt.

5. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet for easier cleanup.

6. Bake for 45 to 60 minutes, or until the skin is crisp and a fork easily pierces through the center.

7. Remove from the oven, slice open, and fluff the insides with a fork. Add desired toppings and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 45–60 minutes
Total time: 50–65 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy Baked Potatoes: Add shredded cheddar cheese in the final 10 minutes of baking.

• Loaded Style: Top with sour cream, bacon, cheese, green onions, and a dash of hot sauce.

• Herb Butter Twist: Use garlic and herb-infused butter for extra flavor.

• Sweet Potatoes: Substitute russet potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweeter version.

• Vegan Option: Use olive oil and plant-based toppings like vegan sour cream or avocado.

storage/reheating

Store leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15–20 minutes or microwave on high for 2–3 minutes. To maintain crisp skin, reheating in the oven is preferred.

FAQs

What type of potato is best for baking?

Russet potatoes are ideal due to their starchy texture, which yields a fluffy interior and crisp skin when baked.

Do I need to wrap the potatoes in foil?

No, wrapping in foil will result in a softer skin. For crispy skin, bake them uncovered directly on the oven rack.

How do I know when the baked potato is done?

The potato should be easily pierced with a fork or knife, and the skin should feel crisp.

Can I microwave the potato instead of baking it?

Yes, but the skin will not be as crispy. Microwave on high for 5–7 minutes, turning halfway through.

How do I make the skin crispier?

Rubbing the skin with oil and salt before baking helps it crisp up in the oven.

Can I bake multiple potatoes at once?

Yes, but ensure they are spaced evenly for consistent cooking. You may need to increase the baking time slightly.

Should I poke holes in the potatoes before baking?

Yes, poking holes prevents steam from building up inside the potato, which could cause it to burst.

Can I freeze baked potatoes?

It’s not recommended as the texture may become grainy upon thawing. Fresh is best.

What are good toppings for baked potatoes?

Common options include sour cream, cheese, bacon, green onions, butter, and even chili or steamed vegetables.

How do I reheat a baked potato without drying it out?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) wrapped in foil, or microwave with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

Conclusion

The baked potato is a timeless dish that’s both easy to prepare and endlessly customizable. Whether served plain with a touch of butter or loaded with a variety of toppings, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Add it to your weekly meal rotation and enjoy the hearty satisfaction it brings.