How to Make Baked Potatoes (Step by Step)

Baked potatoes are a classic side dish or meal base that’s easy to make and deliciously versatile. Follow this step-by-step guide to achieve crispy skins and fluffy insides every time.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients and Tools

Ingredients:

• Potatoes: Russet potatoes work best for baking due to their starchy texture.
• Olive Oil: 1–2 tablespoons to coat the skins.
• Salt: For seasoning the skin.
• Optional Toppings: Butter, sour cream, cheese, chives, bacon bits, or any favorite topping.

Tools:

• Baking Sheet: To place the potatoes in the oven.
• Fork: To poke holes in the potatoes.
• Aluminum Foil or Parchment Paper: Optional, for lining the baking sheet.
• Tongs or Oven Mitts: For handling hot potatoes.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

1. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Allow it to preheat while you prepare the potatoes.

Step 3: Wash and Dry the Potatoes

1. Rinse the potatoes under cold running water to remove any dirt.
2. Scrub them gently with a vegetable brush if needed.
3. Pat the potatoes dry with a clean towel. Dry skins help them crisp up in the oven.

Step 4: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Poke Holes: Use a fork to poke several holes around each potato. This allows steam to escape and prevents the potatoes from bursting in the oven.
2. Coat with Oil: Rub the potatoes with olive oil to create a crispy, golden skin.
3. Season: Sprinkle salt evenly over the skins for added flavor.

Step 5: Bake the Potatoes

1. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack for the crispiest skin. Alternatively, place them on a lined baking sheet for easier cleanup.
2. Bake for 45–60 minutes, depending on the size of the potatoes.
3. Check for doneness by inserting a fork or skewer into the potato. It should glide in easily when fully cooked.

Step 6: Serve the Potatoes

1. Remove the potatoes from the oven using tongs or oven mitts.
2. Slice Open: Make a slit down the center of each potato and gently squeeze the ends to fluff up the insides.
3. Add Toppings: Top with butter, sour cream, cheese, chives, or any preferred ingredients.

Optional Variations

1. Loaded Baked Potatoes:
   • Top with shredded cheese, bacon bits, green onions, and sour cream for a hearty dish.
2. Garlic and Herb:
   • Mix garlic powder and dried herbs with the olive oil before coating the potatoes.
3. Twice-Baked Potatoes:
   • Scoop out the insides after baking, mix with cheese and butter, refill the skins, and bake again until golden.

Tips for Perfect Baked Potatoes

1. Use the Right Potato: Russet potatoes yield the fluffiest insides and crispiest skins.
2. Don’t Wrap in Foil: Wrapping potatoes in foil traps moisture and makes the skin soft rather than crispy.
3. Even Cooking: Choose potatoes of similar size to ensure they cook evenly.
4. Customize the Seasoning: Add black pepper, paprika, or your favorite spices to the olive oil for a unique twist.

Storing and Reheating Baked Potatoes

1. Refrigerate: Store leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
2. Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes or microwave for a quick option.
3. Repurpose: Use leftover baked potatoes for mashed potatoes, hash browns, or potato salad.

Baked potatoes are a simple yet satisfying dish that can be tailored to any meal or taste. With crispy skins and fluffy insides, they’re perfect as a side dish, main course, or customizable base for endless toppings. Enjoy!