Baked potatoes are a timeless comfort food that pairs perfectly with a wide variety of toppings, making them an ideal side dish or a hearty meal on their own. This simple yet delicious recipe delivers a crispy skin and a fluffy interior, allowing you to customize each potato to your personal taste. Whether you enjoy them with butter, sour cream, chives, cheese, or any combination of toppings, this baked potato recipe will surely become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt (to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 tablespoon dried rosemary (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the potatoes will bake to perfection with a crispy skin.
- Scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a paper towel or kitchen cloth.
- Pierce each potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape while baking, preventing the potatoes from bursting in the oven.
- Rub each potato with olive oil, making sure to cover the entire surface for that crispy, golden skin.
- Sprinkle salt, freshly ground black pepper, and any optional seasonings (like garlic powder or rosemary) generously over the potatoes for enhanced flavor.
- Arrange the prepared potatoes directly on the oven rack. For easier cleanup, you can place a baking sheet or aluminum foil on the rack below to catch any drips.
- Bake for 45–60 minutes, depending on the size of your potatoes. Check for doneness by inserting a fork or knife into the center of the potato; it should glide through effortlessly.
- Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Cut a slit down the middle of each potato and gently squeeze the sides to fluff the interior.
- Top with your favorite toppings such as butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, chives, bacon bits, or any combination that suits your taste.
Conclusion: This baked potato recipe is a versatile and satisfying dish that can be customized in countless ways. Whether you serve them as a side dish to a main course or load them up for a complete meal, baked potatoes always hit the spot. The combination of a crispy skin and light, fluffy interior makes each bite a true delight. Try this recipe today, and experiment with your favorite toppings to create the perfect baked potato every time.