How to Bake a Potato
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
45 mins
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Total Time
50 mins
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Servings
4 servings
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Calories
261 kcal
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Course
Side Dish, Main Course
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Cuisine
American
How to Bake a Potato
Description
This baked potato method starts by preheating the oven to 425°F. After washing and drying, russet potatoes are rubbed with olive oil, salt, and pepper to enhance flavor and crispness. Piercing the skins with a fork prevents bursting during baking. They bake for 45 to 50 minutes until the skin is puffed and crisp and a fork easily pierces the flesh.
The finished potatoes offer a crunchy exterior with a soft, fluffy center ideal for loading with butter, sour cream, cheese, or herbs. The resting period after baking helps the steam settle inside, improving texture. This basic technique is a foundation for many potato dishes and can be adapted with toppings according to preference.
The notes mention freezing cooked baked potatoes by cooling them thoroughly and wrapping to maintain quality, suitable for later reheating. Proper storage within 4 days in an airtight container is recommended to preserve freshness.
Ingredients
- 4 russet potato
- 3-4 tablespoons olive oil
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F
- Wash the potatoes well, dry with a paper towel, and rub (or use a brush) with olive oil and salt and pepper.
- Prick the skins of the potatoes with a fork.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the skin crisps and puffs and the potatoes are easily pierced.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before cutting open. Serve as desired.
Notes
- Store baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- To freeze, cool baked potatoes completely, wrap in foil, place in a freezer bag, and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Allow baked potatoes to rest 5 minutes after baking before serving to improve texture.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 261 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 261kcal | 13% |
| Carbohydrates | 38g | 13% |
| Protein | 5g | 10% |
| Fat | 11g | 17% |
| Saturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Sodium | 18mg | 1% |
| Potassium | 888mg | 19% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 2IU | 0% |
| Vitamin C | 12mg | 13% |
| Calcium | 28mg | 3% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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