I still remember the first time I tried to bake the “perfect potato” — it was like discovering a new world hidden in a humble spud. Imagine the crispy outer skin that crackles like autumn leaves underfoot, giving way to a fluffy interior that’s as comforting as your favorite sweater on a chilly day. Trust me, you haven’t truly experienced a potato until you’ve baked it just right, and with this recipe, you might just find yourself daydreaming about them at unexpected moments — perhaps even during a boring Zoom meeting.
Steps
- Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- As the oven heats, thoroughly scrub the potatoes and dry them with a kitchen towel. Use a fork to pierce each potato a few times to create small holes.
- Position the potatoes on the baking sheet and coat them with olive oil. Generously sprinkle sea or kosher salt over the potatoes before placing them in the preheated oven.
- Bake the potatoes for 45 to 60 minutes, checking that the skins are crisp and easily pierced with a fork. Once done, carefully remove the baking sheet using oven mitts.
- Let the potatoes cool slightly before cutting them open. Fluff the interiors with a fork and add your choice of toppings, such as sour cream, bacon, or chives.
Ingredients
- 4 russet potatoes
- Olive oil, for coating
- Sea salt or kosher salt, for seasoning
FAQ
- Why should I avoid using foil for baking potatoes?
- Wrapping potatoes in foil can cause the skins to become soft and shriveled. For crispy, flavorful skins, it’s best to bake them unwrapped.
- What type of potato is best for baking?
- Russet potatoes are ideal for baking because their skins puff up and become crisp in the oven, providing a delicious texture contrast to the soft interior.
- How does the size of the potato affect the cooking time?
- The baking time can vary from 45 to 60 minutes depending on the size of the potatoes. Larger potatoes will require more time, while smaller ones will cook faster. They are ready when they are fork-tender and the skins are crisp.
- What are some tasty topping suggestions for baked potatoes?
- Popular toppings include a pat of butter, sour cream, tempeh bacon, chives, cheese sauce, or Greek yogurt. These additions can elevate the flavor and make the baked potato a satisfying meal or side dish.
- Can I serve baked potatoes with other dishes?
- Yes, baked potatoes can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or paired with proteins and salads. They complement hearty salads like Caesar or broccoli salad, and also go well with roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts.
Tips
- Avoid using foil when baking potatoes. Leaving them unwrapped ensures the skins become crispy rather than shriveled and soft.
- Be generous with the salt when coating the potatoes. This not only enhances the flavor of the skin but also ensures a delicious, crispy texture that complements the fluffy interior.
- Adjust the baking time according to the size of the potatoes. Larger potatoes will require more time, while smaller ones will cook faster. Check for doneness by ensuring they are fork-tender and the skins are crisp.
- Experiment with toppings to elevate your baked potato experience. While traditional options like butter and sour cream are classic, consider trying cashew sour cream, tempeh bacon, or even a cheese sauce for a unique twist.
Equipment
- Baking Sheets (e.g., nonstick baking sheets from USA Pan Bakeware)
- Parchment Paper
- Oven Mitts
