🌟 Description
These baked potatoes have crackly, salty skins and soft, fluffy centers. They’re endlessly customizable — perfect as a side dish or a hearty main with loaded toppings.
⏱ Time
Prep: 5 minutes
Bake: 50–60 minutes
Total: 55–65 minutes
🍽 Servings
4 potatoes
🛒 Ingredients
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4 medium russet potatoes
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1–2 tbsp olive oil
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½ tsp salt (plus more for serving)
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¼ tsp black pepper (optional)
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Prep Potatoes
Scrub potatoes clean and dry well. Pierce each potato 4–5 times with a fork.
2️⃣ Oil & Season
Rub potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle evenly with salt and pepper.
3️⃣ Bake
Place potatoes directly on oven rack with a baking sheet underneath. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 50–60 minutes, until skins are crisp and a knife slides easily through center.
4️⃣ Serve
Slice open, fluff inside with fork, and add your favorite toppings.
❓ Q & A
Q: Should I wrap potatoes in foil?
No — foil traps steam and makes skins soft instead of crispy.
Q: Can I bake them faster?
Yes — microwave 5 minutes first, then oven-bake 20–25 minutes.
Q: How do I know they’re done?
A fork or knife should slide in easily with no resistance.
Q: Can I store leftovers?
Yes — refrigerate up to 4 days. Reheat in oven or air fryer.
💡 Topping Ideas
Butter & salt • Sour cream & chives • Cheddar & bacon • Chili & cheese • Greek yogurt & herbs