Ingredients (for 4 servings)
- 4 large russet potatoes (about 8–10 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)
- 1 tablespoon coarse kosher salt (for crispy skin)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (1 per potato)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions
Optional Toppings for Variety:
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Crispy bacon bits
- Steamed broccoli florets
- Chili with beans
- Salsa & guacamole
- Ranch dressing
- Grilled chicken or steak strips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven
Heat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a rack in the middle for even baking. - Prepare the Potatoes
- Scrub potatoes under running water to remove dirt.
- Pat completely dry with a towel (moisture prevents crispy skin).
- Pierce each potato 6–8 times with a fork. This allows steam to escape.
- Season the Skin
- Rub potatoes with olive oil or melted butter until evenly coated.
- Sprinkle generously with coarse salt.
- Place directly on the oven rack (or on a baking sheet lined with foil).
- Bake
- Bake 45–60 minutes, depending on size.
- Potatoes are done when skin is crispy and a fork slides into the center easily.
- Fluff & Fill
- Remove potatoes from oven and let cool 2 minutes.
- Slice a slit down the center.
- Use a fork to gently fluff the insides.
- Add a pat of butter, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and chives.
Variations
- Loaded Baked Potato
- Top with sour cream, shredded cheese, bacon bits, and chives.
- Broccoli & Cheese Potato
- Add steamed broccoli and drizzle with melted cheddar cheese.
- Chili Potato
- Spoon over warm chili, add cheese, and a dollop of sour cream.
- Tex-Mex Potato
- Top with salsa, guacamole, jalapeños, and shredded cheese.
- Breakfast Potato
- Add scrambled eggs, sausage, and cheese for a morning meal.
Tips for the Best Baked Potato
- Use russet potatoes – they’re starchy and fluffy inside.
- Never wrap in foil while baking – foil steams them instead of crisping.
- For extra crispy skin, after baking, brush with a little butter and put under the broiler for 2–3 minutes.
- If short on time, start by microwaving potatoes for 6–7 minutes, then finish in the oven for 15 minutes to crisp.
Serving Suggestions
Serve baked potatoes as a:
- Side dish for steak, grilled chicken, or fish.
- Main meal by loading with hearty toppings (chili, veggies, meats).
- Buffet bar – set up a baked potato bar at parties with toppings for guests.
