Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Wash and Prepare the Potatoes
Scrub the potatoes well under running water.
Dry them completely with a towel.
Use a fork to pierce each potato 4–5 times to allow steam to escape while baking.
Step 3: Season the Potatoes
Rub each potato with olive oil.
Sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
This helps the skin become crispy.
Step 4: Bake
Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet.
Bake for 45–60 minutes, depending on the size.
They are done when a knife easily slides into the center.
Step 5: Fluff the Potato
Remove the potatoes from the oven.
Cut a slit across the top and gently squeeze the sides to fluff the inside.
Step 6: Add Toppings
Add your favorite toppings such as:
- butter
- sour cream
- cheese
- green onions
- bacon bits.
Serve warm.
✅ Tips for the Best Baked Potatoes
- Russet potatoes work best because they become fluffy inside.
- Baking directly on the oven rack makes the skin crispier.
- For extra flavor rub the potato with garlic butter after baking.
- You can also cook them in an air fryer in about 35 minutes.
If you want, I can also give you:
- The viral crispy smashed baked potatoes 🥔
- Loaded baked potato casserole
- Air fryer baked potato recipe
- Cheesy stuffed baked potatoes.