A Guide to Perfect Oven-Baked Potatoes

Baked potatoes have a special place in our family meals, and for good reason! They are incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for those nights when you want a comforting dish with minimal effort. It takes just about 5 minutes of hands-on time, and each person can load up their potato however they like. Here, I’ll share my foolproof method for making the best salt-crusted baked potatoes, along with some chef-approved tips to ensure they turn out perfectly fluffy every time.

Best Baked Potato Recipe Tips

1. Use a thermometer: Bake until the internal temperature reaches 205°F-210°F for the perfect fluffy texture.
2. Slice immediately: Cut the potato open within 5 minutes of removal from the oven to release steam and avoid gumminess.
3. Push the ends together: Squeeze the ends to extract the fluffy insides through the cut, using a towel if necessary to protect your hands from the heat.
4. No foil: Avoid wrapping in foil as this will steam the potato instead of roasting it, resulting in a soggy skin.
5. Promote good airflow: Use a wire rack over a baking sheet or place directly on the oven rack, with a baking sheet underneath to catch drips.
6. Baking temperature: Bake medium russet potatoes at 425°F; smaller ones can be done at 450°F.
7. Cooking extra-large potatoes: For potatoes over a pound, lower the temperature to 400°F for a slower bake.
8. In a hurry? Check out the recipe for instant pot baked potatoes. They won’t have the roasted exterior but are a quick alternative!

Best Baked Potato Recipe Ingredients

• Russet Potatoes: Each potato should ideally weigh between 8 and 14 ounces. For extra-large potatoes, adjust cooking time accordingly.
• Olive Oil: Optional, but helps create a delicious, crispy crust.
• Salt: Generously use sea salt or kosher salt to enhance the flavor of the potato skins.

Variations

• Different Potatoes: This method also works for sweet potatoes, though they cook faster than russet potatoes. Adjust your cooking time according to size.
• Oil-Free Baked Potatoes: To make them without oil, scrub the potatoes thoroughly with water, then coat with salt before they dry. The salt will stick nicely!

How to Make Baked Potatoes in the Oven

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F for smaller potatoes. Ensure your oven racks are arranged with one positioned in the center.
2. Prep the Potatoes: Wash and scrub your potatoes until clean and dry. Lightly coat each potato with olive oil (if using) and generously sprinkle salt over all sides.
3. Place on a Rack: Arrange a wire rack over a baking sheet and position the potatoes on top. Alternatively, you can place them directly on the middle oven rack, with a pan on the rack below to catch any drips.
4. Prick the Potatoes: Use a fork to prick each potato on the top 2-3 times, about ½ inch deep.
5. Bake: Bake on the middle rack until the potatoes are tender and the internal temperature reaches between 205°F and 210°F. Medium russet potatoes typically take about 50-60 minutes, depending on size.
6. Slice and Serve: Upon removal from the oven, make a lengthwise slit in the top of each potato to release steam. Squeeze the ends with both hands to open up, using a towel for protection against heat. Fluff with a fork and serve hot!

What is the Perfect Oven Temperature for a Baked Potato?

The ideal baking temperature depends on the potato size. Medium potatoes (under 16 ounces) bake best at 425°F. Large potatoes (over 16 ounces) perform better at 400°F, while smaller potatoes (under 8 ounces) can be baked at 450°F.

Why We Don’t Use Foil

Wrapping potatoes in foil traps moisture, leading to steamed potatoes rather than beautifully roasted ones. This can result in a gummy interior and a soggy skin. Moreover, we prefer to limit contact with aluminum foil whenever possible.

Serving Baked Potatoes

Loaded with toppings, baked potatoes can become a fulfilling meal in themselves. Think of them as a base for homemade chili, creamy Sloppy Joe filling, or flavorful lentil dishes. Alternatively, serve them alongside main courses like roasted chicken, fish, or beef.

Baked Potato Toppings

The topping possibilities are endless! Here are some of my favorites:

• Butter
• Olive oil
• Sour cream (or a vegan alternative)
• Chives or green onions
• Shredded cheese
• Crispy bacon or coconut bacon
• Chili

How to Store Oven-Baked Potatoes

After slicing the top of the potato, let it cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place it in a heated oven at 375°F on a wire rack until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

How to Make Baked Potatoes for a Crowd

If you’re preparing baked potatoes for a larger gathering, here’s a tip: most home ovens can fit about 50 medium-sized russet potatoes across two racks. Using parchment-lined sheet pans can help manage this volume.

Keep in mind that a fuller oven may lengthen baking time, so plan ahead! Expect to allocate about 1.5 hours for baking to reach the desired internal temperature of 205°F-210°F. It’s helpful to have assistance for cutting the tops, as they will all finish baking around the same time.