The Perfect Baked Potato Recipe

The humble potato is transformed into a star dish with this ultimate baked potato recipe. A perfect blend of simplicity and taste, this recipe goes beyond the typical baked potato. Expect a crunchy skin enveloping a fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth interior. Every bite is a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Photos of The Perfect Baked Potato Recipe

The key ingredient for this recipe is the russet potato, often easily found in most supermarkets. Its high starch content gives the baked potato a fluffy interior. Besides, it has a thick skin that turns wonderfully crispy when baked. If you don't have coarse kosher salt at home, you can substitute it with sea salt or any other large-grain salt. But remember, the coarser grains of kosher salt contribute to a better crunch.

Ingredients for the Ultimate Baked Potato

Russet potato: This is a large, oblong variety of potato that is ideal for baking. Its high starch content results in a fluffy interior when cooked.

Butter or Olive oil: These are used to coat the potato before baking. This helps to crisp up the skin and adds a layer of flavor. You can choose either, depending on your preference.

Coarse kosher salt: This type of salt has large, flaky grains, which not only season the potato but also add a crunch to the skin.

Black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper will provide a subtle heat to balance out the flavors.

One reader, Erhard Peak says:

This ultimate baked potato recipe is a game-changer! The potato turns out perfectly crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. The simple seasoning allows the natural flavor to shine through. It's a go-to comfort food that's easy to make and always a hit with family and friends.

Erhard Peak

Mastering the Techniques for the Perfect Baked Potato

How to bake the potato: Explanation on the process of baking the potato, including the temperature, time, and preparation of the potato.

How to check for doneness: Explanation on how to determine if the potato is fully cooked and ready to be served.

How to serve with desired toppings: Suggestions and ideas for various toppings and how to prepare and serve them with the baked potato.

How To Make The Perfect Baked Potato

Secrets to the perfectly baked potato are here! Crispy and flavorful on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside. So easy and takes zero kitchen skills!

Preparation: 2 minutes

Cooking: 50 minutes

Total: 52 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1medium-to-large Russet potato,scrubbed clean of any dirt
1-2tspbutter or olive oil,melted
pinch of coarse Kosher salt
pinch of freshly-cracked black pepper

Instructions

Heat oven to 450 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with foil (or parchment*), and if you happen to own a wire cooling rack, place it on top of the baking sheet.
Using a dinner fork or a small paring knife, poke the potato at least 10 times on all sides. Place the potato on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for about 25 minutes. Remove baking sheet from the oven.
Using a pastry brush, brush the outside of the potato with melted butter or olive oil until it is completely coated on all sides. Sprinkle the potato with a generous pinch of Kosher salt, and place the potato back on the baking sheet reverse-side-up, so that it can cook evenly on both sides.
Bake for about 20 minutes. Using an oven mitt, carefully squeeze the potato to check for doneness. If the insides are soft and give under pressure, remove the potato from the oven. Otherwise, continue cooking in 5-minute increments until the potato is soft.
Slice halfway through the potato lengthwise using a small paring knife. Then give it a gentle squeeze to open. Serve immediately, with your desired toppings.

Recipe Notes

*Either bake the potatoes (1) directly on the oven racks themselves, with an extra baking sheet on a rack below to catch any drippings; or (2) on a baking sheet covered with a foil or parchment paper (at your own risk) for easy clean up.

Nutrition

Calories: 233.66kcal
Fat: 4.70g
Saturated Fat: 0.69g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.29g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.58g
Carbohydrates: 44.36g
Fiber: 3.22g
Sugar: 1.52g
Protein: 5.26g
Sodium: 129.95mg
Calcium: 32.60mg
Potassium: 1023.44mg
Iron: 2.15mg
Vitamin A: 0.04µg
Vitamin C: 13.96mg

One Simple Technique to Elevate Your Baked Potato Game

When selecting your russet potato for this recipe, choose one that is firm, with no soft spots or sprouts. The skin should be clean and smooth. A good quality potato will result in a better baked potato. Also, when poking the potato, make sure to poke deep enough to allow steam to escape during baking. This prevents the potato from bursting in the oven and also helps to make the inside of the potato fluffy.

Time-Saving Tips for Making the Ultimate Baked Potato Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure out ingredients, and prepare any toppings or fillings in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Use a microwave: Speed up the cooking process by microwaving the potato for 5-7 minutes before transferring it to the oven for a final crisp.

Multi-task: While the potato is baking, use that time to prepare other components of your meal or clean up the kitchen to save time later.

Invest in a potato baking tool: Consider using a specialized potato baking tool that can help cook the potato faster and more evenly.

Batch cooking: Make extra baked potatoes to use in other meals throughout the week, saving time on future meal prep.

Prep toppings in advance: Prepare your favorite toppings ahead of time, such as cooked bacon, sautéed vegetables, or shredded cheese, for quick assembly when serving the baked potatoes.

Substitute Ingredients For The Perfect Baked Potato Recipe

russet potato - Substitute with sweet potato: Sweet potatoes are a great alternative to russet potatoes, offering a slightly sweeter flavor and a boost of vitamin A and fiber.
butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee is a clarified butter that adds a rich, nutty flavor and is suitable for high-heat cooking due to its higher smoke point.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and a high smoke point, making it a great alternative for roasting or baking.
coarse kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a similar level of salinity and texture, enhancing the overall flavor of the baked potato.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a milder, earthier flavor compared to black pepper, providing a different dimension to the seasoning of the baked potato.

The Perfect Way to Present Your Baked Potato Masterpiece

Elevate the potato skin: Gently scoop out the cooked potato flesh, leaving a thin layer of potato attached to the skin. This will create a sturdy vessel for the filling and add a beautiful presentation element.
Create a potato bar: Set up a toppings bar with an array of options such as crispy bacon bits, sour cream, chives, shredded cheese, and chopped green onions. This allows guests to customize their baked potatoes to their liking, adding an interactive and visually appealing element to the dish.
Incorporate color and texture: Add vibrant and contrasting elements such as microgreens or edible flowers to the finished baked potato to enhance its visual appeal and provide a fresh, gourmet touch.
Utilize elegant plating: Present the baked potato on a sleek, minimalist plate, ensuring that the toppings are artfully arranged and the potato is positioned in a visually appealing manner. This attention to detail will impress even the most discerning culinary professionals.

Essential Tools for Crafting the Ultimate Baked Potato

Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking and roasting food.
Baking sheet: A flat, metal sheet used to bake items in the oven.
Foil: A thin, pliable metal sheet used for lining pans and wrapping food for cooking.
Parchment: A heat-resistant, non-stick paper used for lining baking sheets and pans.
Wire cooling rack: A metal rack used to cool baked goods and elevate them for even cooking.

The Best Methods for Storing and Freezing Baked Potatoes

Let the baked potatoes cool completely before storing or freezing. This will help prevent them from becoming soggy or mushy.
To store in the refrigerator, wrap each potato individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. They will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the baked potatoes. Wrap each potato tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, making sure there are no air pockets. Place the wrapped potatoes in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents, so you can easily keep track of when they were frozen.
Baked potatoes can be frozen for up to 6 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the potatoes in the refrigerator overnight.
To reheat, unwrap the potato and place it on a baking sheet. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave the potato on high for 2-3 minutes, or until hot.
If you want to maintain the crispy skin, reheat the potato in the oven or toaster oven rather than the microwave.
Avoid refreezing baked potatoes that have already been thawed, as this can affect their texture and quality.

How To Reheat Leftover Baked Potatoes

The best way to reheat a leftover baked potato is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the potato on a baking sheet or directly on the oven rack. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the potato is heated through.
Another option is to use the microwave. Wrap the potato in a damp paper towel and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the potato is heated through. Be careful when removing the potato from the microwave, as it will be hot.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your reheated baked potato, try slicing it in half and placing a pat of butter or a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top before reheating. You can also add some chopped green onions, bacon bits, or sour cream for extra flavor.
If you have an air fryer, you can also use it to reheat your baked potato. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the potato in the air fryer basket and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the potato is heated through.
If you want to get creative with your leftover baked potato, try slicing it into wedges and frying them in a pan with some olive oil or butter. You can also mash the potato and use it as a topping for shepherd's pie or mix it into a potato salad.

Surprising Facts About Baked Potatoes You Never Knew

Baked potato is a staple food in many countries and is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium.

Is Making the Ultimate Baked Potato at Home Cost-Effective?

This baked potato recipe is incredibly cost-effective for a household. With just a few simple ingredients, it offers a budget-friendly option for a delicious and satisfying meal. The russet potatoes are affordable and readily available, while the addition of butter or olive oil and seasonings is minimal. This recipe is a great way to create a filling and versatile dish without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of four people is estimated to be under $5, making it an excellent choice for those looking to prepare a tasty and economical meal. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Is the Ultimate Baked Potato Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The ultimate baked potato recipe is a simple and comforting dish, but it may not be the healthiest choice. Here's why:

High in calories: Potatoes are relatively high in calories, and adding butter or oil increases the calorie count further.
Simple carbohydrates: Potatoes are mainly composed of simple carbohydrates, which can cause blood sugar spikes and crashes.
Low in fiber: While potatoes do contain some fiber, most of it is located in the skin, which is often discarded.
Minimal nutrients: Although potatoes contain some vitamins and minerals, they are not particularly nutrient-dense compared to other vegetables.

However, there are some positive aspects to this recipe:

Sodium control: Using a pinch of kosher salt allows for better control over sodium intake compared to using pre-salted toppings.
Healthy fat option: Offering olive oil as an alternative to butter provides a healthier fat option.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Leave the skin on the potato to increase the fiber content and add more nutrients
Use a smaller amount of butter or oil, or opt for a healthier fat like olive oil or avocado oil
Add nutrient-dense toppings such as chopped vegetables (e.g., broccoli, bell peppers, onions), plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, or salsa for added flavor without excessive calories
Pair the baked potato with a side salad or other non-starchy vegetables to balance the meal and add more nutrients
Consider using sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes for a higher fiber and nutrient content

Our Editor's Honest Opinion on the Ultimate Baked Potato Recipe

This baked potato recipe is a classic and foolproof way to achieve a perfectly fluffy and flavorful baked potato. The method of baking the potato at a high temperature and then coating it with butter and seasoning creates a crispy skin and a tender interior. The simplicity of the recipe allows for endless possibilities when it comes to toppings, making it a versatile and satisfying dish. Whether you prefer classic toppings like sour cream and chives or something more adventurous like chili and cheese, this recipe is a great foundation for a delicious baked potato.

Enhance Your The Perfect Baked Potato Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes with a hint of parmesan cheese and chives

Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears drizzled with balsamic glaze and sprinkled with toasted almonds

Bacon-wrapped Dates: Sweet dates stuffed with tangy goat cheese, wrapped in crispy bacon and drizzled with honey

Strawberry Spinach Salad: Fresh spinach and juicy strawberries tossed in a light balsamic vinaigrette with crunchy candied pecans

Delicious Alternatives to the Classic Baked Potato Recipe

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and cream creates a rich and flavorful soup that will warm you up from the inside out.

Grilled Lemon Garlic Salmon: Grilled lemon garlic salmon is a light and refreshing dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue. The tangy lemon and savory garlic complement the tender, flaky salmon for a delicious and healthy meal.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Mango coconut chia pudding is a tropical and refreshing dessert that is perfect for a hot summer day. The sweet mango and creamy coconut milk pair perfectly with the nutritious chia seeds for a guilt-free treat.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze are a flavorful and healthy side dish that will convert even the pickiest eaters into Brussels sprouts fans. The caramelized balsamic glaze adds a sweet and tangy kick to the tender roasted sprouts.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement the Ultimate Baked Potato Perfectly

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. They're the perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Indulge in this creamy and cheesy spinach and artichoke dip, served with crispy tortilla chips or warm bread. It's a crowd-pleasing appetizer that will have everyone coming back for more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and decadent texture will satisfy any chocolate lover's cravings.

Apple Pie: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a classic apple pie, with a flaky golden crust and a sweet cinnamon-spiced apple filling. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Why trust this The Perfect Baked Potato Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a perfect baked potato every time. The method has been meticulously tested and perfected to ensure a crispy skin and fluffy interior. Using only the finest russet potato and a touch of butter or olive oil, this recipe highlights the natural flavors of the potato. The simple seasoning of coarse kosher salt and freshly-cracked black pepper enhances the taste without overpowering it. Trust in this fail-proof recipe to deliver a delicious and satisfying baked potato experience.

Share your thoughts on the perfect baked potato recipe in the Cooking Techniques forum and let us know if you have any secret tips or tricks to make it even better!

FAQ:

How long should I bake the potato for?

Bake the potato for about 25 minutes initially, then check for doneness. Continue baking in 5-minute increments until the insides are soft and give under pressure.

Can I use something other than butter or olive oil?

Yes, you can use your preferred cooking oil or even bacon fat for added flavor.

Do I need to use a wire cooling rack?

While it's not necessary, using a wire cooling rack can help the potato cook more evenly and become crispier.

What are some suggested toppings for the baked potato?

You can top your baked potato with sour cream, chives, bacon bits, shredded cheese, or any of your favorite toppings.

Can I prepare the potato ahead of time?

You can partially cook the potato ahead of time, then finish cooking it just before serving to ensure it's hot and crispy.