Perfect Baked Potato
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
15 mins
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Cook Time
1 hr
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Total Time
1 hr 15 mins
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Servings
4 potatoes
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Calories
230 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Perfect Baked Potato
Description
The Perfect Baked Potato recipe starts by washing russet potatoes thoroughly, then poking holes to release moisture during baking. Coated evenly with olive oil and kosher salt, the potatoes are baked at 350°F for about one hour until the skin crisps and the flesh becomes tender.
After baking, the potatoes are allowed to cool slightly before cracking open by squeezing the ends to reveal the fluffy inside. This baking technique ensures a contrast between the crunchy salted skin and the soft interior. Potatoes prepared this way suit a variety of toppings, from butter and sour cream to chili or cheese.
The recipe notes provide diverse topping suggestions and careful storage methods. Leftover baked potatoes can be reheated in a microwave or oven and stored properly for up to 3-5 days. Options such as wrapping in foil and using slow cookers or insulated containers help maintain warmth for serving later.
Ingredients
- 4 russet potato
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- kosher salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
- Wash potatoes with a stiff brush and cold water, then pat dry. Use a fork to poke 8–12 deep holes all over the surface of each potato to let the moisture escape during cooking.
- In a large bowl, lightly coat potatoes with oil and salt. Then place potatoes in the oven directly on the middle rack (or on an aluminium foil-lined baking sheet).
- Bake for 1 hour, until the skin is crisp and the flesh feels soft.
- Let potatoes cool a bit until you can handle them. Create a dotted line from end to end of each potato with your fork, then crack the potatoes open by squeezing the ends toward each other. Serve with any desired toppings (see note below).
Notes
- Try toppings like pulled pork, chili, bacon, salsa, cheddar cheese, blue cheese, scallions, or broccoli to vary flavors.
- To keep baked potatoes warm, wrap in foil and use a slow cooker, microwave, or insulated containers to retain heat.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container or wrapped in foil in the fridge for up to 3-5 days and reheat when needed.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4potatoes
Amount Per Serving
Calories 230 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1potato | |
| Calories | 230kcal | 12% |
| Carbohydrates | 38g | 13% |
| Protein | 5g | 10% |
| Fat | 7g | 11% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 5g | 25% |
| Sodium | 11mg | 0% |
| 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.