Baked Potato
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: Butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped chives, bacon bits, or shredded cheese
Preparation
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
- Scrub the potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt.
- Pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Pierce each potato a few times with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Rub each potato with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Bake the Potatoes
- Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. The skin should be crispy and the inside soft.
Step 4: Serve
- Once baked, remove the potatoes from the oven.
- Slice each potato open lengthwise and fluff the inside with a fork.
- Top with your choice of butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, chives, or bacon bits.
Tips for Success
- Even Cooking: For consistent cooking, choose potatoes that are similar in size.
- Crispier Skin: For extra crispy skin, rub the potatoes with olive oil and salt before baking.
- Test for Doneness: To check if the potatoes are fully cooked, insert a fork into the center. It should go in easily without resistance.
Variations
- Loaded Baked Potato: Top with bacon, cheddar cheese, sour cream, and chives for a hearty version.
- Garlic Herb Baked Potato: Add minced garlic and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the olive oil before rubbing it on the potatoes.
- Cheesy Baked Potato: After baking, top the potato with cheese and return it to the oven for a few minutes until the cheese is melted.
Why You’ll Love Baked Potatoes
- Simple and Classic: A comforting, easy-to-make side dish with endless topping possibilities.
- Versatile: Customize your baked potato with your favorite toppings or make it the base of a main dish.
- Perfect Texture: The crispy skin with fluffy, tender inside makes for the ultimate baked potato experience.
Enjoy your baked potato! 🥔
