Perfect Baked Potatoes
Ingredients
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4 large russet potatoes
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2–3 tbsp olive oil
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Coarse salt (kosher or sea salt)
Instructions
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Heat oven
Preheat to 425°F (220°C). -
Prep potatoes
Scrub potatoes clean and pat completely dry.
Poke each potato 3–4 times with a fork. -
Oil & salt
Rub potatoes all over with olive oil.
Sprinkle generously with salt (this makes the skin crispy). -
Bake
Place potatoes directly on the oven rack (or on a tray underneath).
Bake 45–60 minutes, until skins are crisp and a knife slides in easily. -
Fluff
Slice open and fluff the inside with a fork.
Best toppings (mix & match)
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Butter + sour cream
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Cheddar cheese + chives
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Crispy bacon bits
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Garlic butter
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Chili or baked beans
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Greek yogurt for a lighter option
Pro tips
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Don’t wrap in foil if you want crispy skin
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For extra fluff: bake, then cut open and return to oven 5 more minutes
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Short on time? Microwave 5–7 minutes first, then oven 20 minutes
Want stuffed baked potatoes, air fryer, or garlic herb versions?