The Ultimate Baked Potato Guide

🥔 The Ultimate Baked Potato Guide
Choosing the Right Potato
Russet potatoes are the gold standard.
Their thick skins crisp beautifully, while their starchy flesh turns fluffy and light.
Choose medium-to-large potatoes, about the size of your fist, for even cooking.

Ingredients
4 large Russet potatoes
2–3 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)
1–2 tsp coarse kosher salt
Optional: black pepper, garlic powder, or smoked paprika for extra flavor

Directions
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a rack in the middle position.

2. Prep potatoes – Scrub potatoes well and pat dry.

3. Pierce skins – Use a fork to poke 6–8 holes in each potato (prevents bursting).

4. Oil & season – Rub each potato all over with olive oil, then sprinkle generously with salt.

5. Bake directly on the oven rack (or a wire rack set over a baking sheet) for 50–60 minutes, until skins are crisp and a fork slides easily into the center.

6. Fluff the inside – Slice open immediately, gently squeeze the ends toward the middle to puff up the flesh, then add butter, sour cream, or your favorite toppings.



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Topping Ideas
Classic: butter, sour cream, shredded cheddar, chopped chives
Loaded: crispy bacon, melted cheese, green onions
Healthy twist: Greek yogurt, steamed broccoli, a sprinkle of Parmesan
Hearty meal: chili, taco meat, or BBQ pulled pork


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✨ Tip for Extra Crispy Skin: Brush potatoes with oil again halfway through baking.