Ingredients & Equipment:
4 medium-large Russet potatoes (about 8 oz each)
2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
1 tbsp kosher salt
Aluminum foil (optional - see note below)
Baking sheet
Fork
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
Scrub potatoes thoroughly and dry completely
Prick each potato 8-10 times with a fork
Rub with oil and sprinkle generously with salt
Step 2: The Baking Method
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C)
Place potatoes directly on oven rack or on a baking sheet
Bake for 45-60 minutes depending on size
Potatoes are done when skin is crisp and interior reaches 205°F (96°C)
Step 3: The Finishing Touch
Remove from oven and let rest 5 minutes
Cut a slit and gently squeeze from bottom
The perfect potato will "blossom" open
The Great Foil Debate
NO FOIL METHOD (Recommended):
✅ Crispier skin
✅ Fluffier interior
✅ Better texture
✅ True baked potato flavor
FOIL WRAP METHOD:
❌ Softer skin (steams instead of bakes)
✅ Slightly faster cooking
Good for potato bars where skin isn't eaten
Pro Tips for Potato Perfection
DON'T SKIP THE PRICKING: Prevents potato explosions
COMPLETELY DRY POTATOES: Oil adheres better to dry skin
USE KOSHER SALT: Creates the perfect crispy texture
TEST FOR DONENESS: Should feel soft when squeezed (with oven mitts!)
REST BEFORE CUTTING: Allows starches to set for fluffier texture
Serving Suggestions & Topping Ideas
Classic Loaded:
Sour cream, chives, bacon, cheddar cheese
Healthy Options:
Greek yogurt, steamed broccoli, green onions
Gourmet Variations:
Pulled pork with BBQ sauce
Chili and cheese
Buffalo chicken with blue cheese
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Problem: Soggy Skin
Solution: Don't wrap in foil, ensure potatoes are completely dry before oiling
Problem: Undercooked Center
Solution: Use uniform potato sizes, bake longer
Problem: Dry Texture
Solution: Don't overcook, serve immediately after resting
Make-Ahead & Storage
REFRIGERATOR: Store baked potatoes up to 5 days
REHEATING: Best in oven or air fryer to maintain crispness
FREEZING: Not recommended - texture becomes mealy
There you have it - the ultimate guide to perfect baked potatoes every single time! Whether you're serving them as a simple side or loading them up for a main course, this method delivers that magical combination of crispy skin and fluffy interior that makes baked potatoes so irresistible.
Happy baking! 🥔
