The Best Homemade Baked Potato Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This baked potato recipe is simple, delicious, and perfect for any meal. You’ll love how easy it is to make, with just a few basic ingredients and minimal effort.
- Crispy outside, fluffy inside: The skin gets perfectly crispy while the inside stays soft and buttery.
- Endless topping options: Customize with your favorites, like cheese, sour cream, or bacon bits.
- Budget-friendly and filling: A hearty side or main dish that won’t break the bank.
Recipe
Baked potatoes are a classic comfort food, perfect as a side dish or a hearty main course. This simple recipe guarantees a perfectly fluffy interior and a crisp, golden skin every time.
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and place a rack in the middle.
- Scrub the potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. Dry them with a clean towel.
- Pierce each potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Rub the potatoes with olive oil, making sure they are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle salt generously over the potatoes, coating the skin evenly.
- Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 45 to 60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the skin is crisp.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes:
For a softer skin, wrap the potatoes in foil before baking, though this will result in a less crispy exterior.
Equipment:
Oven, baking sheet (optional), fork, clean towel
Time:
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 45-60 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
4 servings
Nutrition
Baked potatoes are a versatile and nutritious dish that can be customized with various toppings. Here is the nutritional breakdown for a typical homemade baked potato (with skin):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 161 |
| Protein | 4.3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 36.6 g |
| Fiber | 3.8 g |
| Sugars | 1.7 g |
| Fat | 0.2 g |
| Sodium | 17 mg |
| Potassium | 926 mg |
| Vitamin C | 28.1 mg |
| Calcium | 26 mg |
| Iron | 1.9 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love topping my baked potatoes with melted cheese—it’s creamy, gooey, and satisfying every time. Pairing them with roasted or steamed veggies like broccoli or carrots adds color and makes the meal feel balanced. It’s a simple combo that turns a plain potato into something special!
Cheese Toppings
Looking to jazz up your baked potato? Cheese toppings are a game-changer. I love experimenting with different cheese varieties, like sharp cheddar, creamy Gouda, or tangy feta. For perfect melting, I shred the cheese finely and pile it on while the potato’s still hot. Broiling for a minute or two creates a golden, gooey layer. Sometimes, I mix cheeses for extra flavor—like mozzarella for stretchiness and Parmesan for a crispy crust. Don’t rush the melting process; low heat guarantees even coverage without burning. Whether it’s a classic combo or something bold, cheese transforms a simple baked potato into a cheesy masterpiece.
Vegetable Pairings
While cheese makes baked potatoes irresistible, adding veggies can turn them into a wholesome meal. I love pairing my baked potato with a side of roasted carrots—they’re sweet, tender, and bring a pop of color to the plate. Sautéed spinach is another favorite of mine; it’s quick to make, packed with nutrients, and adds a fresh, earthy flavor. Sometimes, I’ll even pile the spinach directly onto the potato for extra goodness. These veggie combos not only make the meal healthier but also balance the richness of the potato. It’s an easy way to make dinner feel complete and delicious!
