Baked potatoes are a classic comfort food that are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients. Whether served as a side dish or main course, this recipe provides a perfect foundation for endless toppings like butter, cheese, sour cream, or chives. It’s wholesome, filling, and ideal for any meal of the day.
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes (washed and scrubbed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Pat the washed potatoes completely dry. Rub each potato evenly with olive oil or melted butter, then sprinkle salt over all sides. This helps create a crispy skin during baking.
- Place the potatoes directly on the baking sheet or oven rack. Bake for 45–60 minutes, depending on their size, until the skin is crisp and the inside feels soft when pierced with a fork.
- Remove from the oven, let them rest for a few minutes, then slice open the top lengthwise. Use a fork to fluff the inside and top with your favorite toppings like butter, cheese, sour cream, or green onions.
Servings
Serves 4 people
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
Calories: 210
Carbohydrates: 37g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 6g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 320mg
Notes
Use russet potatoes for the best texture, as they bake up light and fluffy inside with crispy skins. You can also use Yukon Gold for a creamier texture. For added flavor, season the skin with garlic powder, black pepper, or rosemary before baking.
Tips
- Always poke small holes in each potato with a fork before baking to prevent them from bursting.
- To speed up baking, you can microwave the potatoes for 5–7 minutes before transferring them to the oven.
- For an extra crispy skin, place baked potatoes under the broiler for 2–3 minutes at the end.
- Wrap leftover baked potatoes in foil and refrigerate; reheat them in the oven to restore crispiness.
Health Benefits
Baked potatoes are naturally rich in vitamins and minerals, especially potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. They provide healthy carbohydrates for sustained energy and contain dietary fiber that supports digestion. Unlike fried potatoes, baking requires minimal oil, making them a healthier option. When topped with nutritious ingredients like steamed veggies, Greek yogurt, or lean proteins, baked potatoes can be a well-balanced and satisfying meal.
