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Perfect Baked Potato

Perfect Baked Potato
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Master the art of the Perfect Baked Potato with this easy, foolproof recipe that delivers crispy, seasoned skin and a fluffy, tender interior every time. Ideal for simple buttered potatoes or loaded with your favorite toppings, this recipe uses basic ingredients and straightforward steps to create a comforting classic side dish or meal base.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 large Russet potatoes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon coarse salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
  • Butter or sour cream, for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Scrub the potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt and pat them dry thoroughly so the oil and salt will adhere well.
  2. Pierce and Oil: Use a fork to prick the potatoes all over, allowing steam to escape during baking and preventing bursting. Rub each potato generously with olive or vegetable oil so every part is coated.
  3. Salt Generously: Sprinkle coarse salt evenly over the potatoes’ skin. This enhances flavor and helps draw out moisture for crispy skin.
  4. Bake Upright: Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet with a wire rack to allow hot air circulation. Bake for 45-60 minutes depending on size; check doneness by inserting a fork or skewer—it should slide in easily without resistance.
  5. Rest and Serve: Remove potatoes from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes to redistribute steam inside. Slice open and fluff the interior with a fork before adding butter, sour cream, or your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • Choose Russet potatoes for dry, fluffy texture inside.
  • Don’t skip oil and salt for crispy, flavorful skin.
  • Prick potatoes with a fork to allow steam to escape and avoid bursting.
  • Bake at 425°F for the best crispiness without drying out the potato.
  • Check doneness by gently testing with a skewer or fork—easy insertion means it’s ready.
  • Let potatoes rest after baking to achieve even fluffiness inside.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked potato, perfect baked potato, crispy potato skin, fluffy potato, comfort food, russet potato

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/perfect-baked-potato/