Description
This Crispy Baked Potatoes recipe delivers a perfectly tender and fluffy interior with a delightfully crispy skin. Baked at 400°F, the russet potato is seasoned with olive oil and kosher salt, then finished with classic toppings like butter, sour cream, scallions, cheese, and bacon crumbles for a comforting, versatile side or snack.
Ingredients
Potato
- 1 russet potato
 - ½ tablespoon olive oil
 - 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
 
Toppings (optional)
- Butter
 - Sour cream
 - Scallions
 - Cheese
 - Bacon crumbles
 
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) to ensure it is hot enough to create a crispy skin on the potato.
 - Prepare the Potato: Thoroughly scrub the russet potato under cold running water to remove dirt. Pat it dry with a clean towel, then prick the potato all over with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.
 - Season the Potato: Place the potato on a baking sheet, brush the entire surface evenly with ½ tablespoon of olive oil, then sprinkle 1 ½ teaspoons of kosher salt all over for flavor and extra crispiness.
 - Bake the Potato: Bake the potato in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the skin is crispy and a fork inserted into the center easily pierces through the potato, indicating it is tender.
 - Finish and Serve: Remove the baked potato from the oven, carefully slice it open lengthwise, and fluff the interior flesh with a fork. Add preferred toppings such as butter, sour cream, chopped scallions, cheese, and bacon crumbles, then serve while hot.
 
Notes
- For an even crispier skin, you can increase the oven temperature towards the end or broil for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
 - Russet potatoes are ideal for baking due to their starchy texture which becomes fluffy inside.
 - Customize toppings based on your preference or dietary restrictions.
 - Ensure the potato is dried well before oiling and salting to help the skin crisp up properly.
 - If you want to bake multiple potatoes, increase the cooking time slightly and ensure they are spaced apart on the baking sheet.