About This Recipe
This recipe produces oven-baked potatoes with crispy skins and fluffy interiors. Total preparation and cooking time is approximately 75 minutes with minimal active preparation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Requires only 3 ingredients
- Simple preparation with minimal active time
- Hands-off cooking during baking
- Versatile base for various toppings
- Uses basic kitchen equipment
Ingredients
- 4 medium russet potatoes (approx 8 oz/225g each)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 tsp coarse salt
Step by Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C)
- Scrub potatoes thoroughly under running water
- Pat potatoes completely dry with paper towels
- Pierce each potato 4-5 times with a fork
- Rub oil evenly over potato skins
- Sprinkle salt over oiled potatoes
- Place potatoes directly on middle oven rack
- Place baking sheet on lower rack to catch drips
- Bake for 45-60 minutes depending on potato size
- Potatoes are done when skins are crisp and interiors yield to gentle pressure
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving
FAQ
Can I use other potato varieties?
Russet potatoes are recommended for their thick skins and fluffy texture.
How do I know when potatoes are fully cooked?
Internal temperature should reach 210°F (99°C) when tested with a food thermometer.
Can I wrap potatoes in foil?
Cooking without foil produces crispier skins.
You Must Know
- Thoroughly drying potatoes before oiling ensures crispier skins
- Piercing potatoes prevents steam buildup and potential bursting
- Oven temperatures may vary – adjust cooking time accordingly
- Potato size significantly affects required cooking time
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate leftover baked potatoes within 2 hours of cooking
- Store in airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheat in oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes to maintain texture
- Do not freeze whole baked potatoes as texture deteriorates