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Classic Baked Potatoes

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A simple and reliable recipe for perfectly crispy skin and fluffy interior baked potatoes, ideal as a side or base for toppings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium russet potatoes (about 6–8 ounces or 170–225 grams each)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 1–2 teaspoons coarse kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons butter (for serving)
  • Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt (optional, for serving)
  • Chopped chives or green onions (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Wash and scrub the potatoes under cold water to remove dirt. Pat completely dry with a kitchen towel or paper towels.
  3. Use a fork or skewer to poke 4-5 holes around each potato to allow steam to escape.
  4. Rub each potato with about 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil, covering the entire surface.
  5. Sprinkle coarse kosher salt evenly over the potatoes and rub it in gently.
  6. Place the potatoes on a wire rack over a rimmed baking sheet, or directly on the baking sheet if no rack is available, spacing them for air circulation.
  7. Bake for 50-60 minutes, flipping the potatoes halfway through baking for even crisping.
  8. Test doneness by gently squeezing the potato with an oven mitt; it should feel soft inside but firm outside. If too firm, bake an additional 5-10 minutes.
  9. Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes.
  10. Slice open, fluff the insides with a fork, and add desired toppings such as butter, sour cream, chives, or cheese.

Notes

Dry the potatoes thoroughly before oiling to ensure crispy skin. Flip potatoes halfway through baking for even crisping. Avoid wrapping potatoes in foil to prevent soggy skin. For extra crispiness, dry off moisture on skins midway through baking if needed. Russet potatoes are preferred for fluffy insides and crispy skins. Yukon Gold potatoes can be used but will be less fluffy. Microwave start can speed cooking but finish in oven for crisp skin.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked potatoes, crispy skin, russet potatoes, easy side dish, comfort food, gluten-free, oven baked potatoes

Find it online: https://cooltastes.com/classic-baked-potatoes-recipe-easy-perfect-crispy-skin-guide/