The Best Homemade Best Baked Potato Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This baked potato recipe is simple, delicious, and always hits the spot, making it a go-to side dish for any meal. You’ll love how crispy the skin gets while staying tender and fluffy on the inside. Plus, it’s super customizable—top it with your favorite toppings like butter, cheese, or sour cream. It’s also a budget-friendly dish that requires just a few basic ingredients. And best of all, it’s hands-off cooking, giving you time to focus on the rest of your meal!
Recipe
A perfectly baked potato is a simple yet satisfying dish that can complement any meal. Its crispy skin and fluffy interior make it a versatile side or even a main course when topped with your favorite ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Optional toppings: butter, sour cream, cheese, chives, bacon bits
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Scrub the potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a clean towel.
- Poke each potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Rub each potato with olive oil, ensuring the entire surface is coated. Sprinkle with salt.
- Place the potatoes directly on the middle rack of the oven. Position a baking sheet on the lower rack to catch any drippings.
- Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the skins are crispy and the insides are tender. Check for doneness by inserting a fork; it should slide in easily.
- Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before slicing open.
- Add your favorite toppings and serve immediately.
Notes:
- For extra crispy skin, you can bake the potatoes directly on the oven rack without wrapping them in foil.
- Larger potatoes may require additional baking time.
Equipment:
- Oven
- Baking sheet
- Fork
- Clean towel
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 45-60 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: Serves 4
Nutrition
Baked potatoes are a nutritious and filling side dish. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving (1 medium potato, about 173g).
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 161 |
| Fat | 0.2g |
| Carbohydrates | 37g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Protein | 4.3g |
| Sodium | 17mg |
| Potassium | 926mg |
What To Serve With It
I love topping my baked potato with classic combos like melted cheese and crispy bacon, or a dollop of sour cream with fresh chives. These add-ins make it feel like a whole meal, not just a side. You can mix and match these toppings depending on your mood or what’s in your fridge.
Cheese & Bacon
When it comes to making baked potatoes truly irresistible, cheese and bacon are my go-to toppings—they’re a classic combo that never disappoints. I love melting sharp cheddar over the hot potato, letting it ooze into every crevice for maximum cheesiness. Crispy bacon bits add a smoky crunch that perfectly balances the creamy potato. Sometimes, I’ll sprinkle a little extra cheese on top for good measure, because why not? It’s a simple yet decadent way to elevate a baked potato, turning it into a comforting meal or side dish. Trust me, once you try it, there’s no going back.
Sour Cream & Chives
There’s something about a dollop of cool, tangy sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh chives that just feels like the perfect finishing touch to a baked potato. I love how the creaminess balances the fluffy inside, while the chives add a mild oniony kick. It’s simple but makes such a difference. Sometimes, I’ll even mix in a pinch of garlic powder for extra flavor. If you’re feeling fancy, swap regular sour cream for a flavored one, like chive or roasted garlic. Trust me, it’s a game-changer. This combo never fails to make my spuds feel extra special.
