Perfect Baked Potato Recipe

Here’s a simple yet perfect recipe for baking potatoes that turn out crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside:

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes (or any other baking potato)
• Olive oil (or vegetable oil)
• Kosher salt (or sea salt)
• Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
• Optional toppings: butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, chives, bacon bits, etc.

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the potatoes:
   • Scrub the potatoes under cold running water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
   • Pierce each potato several times with a fork. This allows steam to escape while baking and prevents the potatoes from bursting.
3. Coat with oil and salt:
   • Rub each potato with olive oil or vegetable oil to coat the skins. This will help them become crispy during baking.
   • Sprinkle the potatoes generously with kosher salt (and pepper, if desired). The salt will add flavor to the skin and help it crisp up.
4. Bake the potatoes:
   • Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If you use a baking sheet, place the potatoes directly on the sheet for maximum crispiness.
   • Bake for about 45-60 minutes, depending on the size of the potatoes. Check for doneness by inserting a fork or knife into the center of the potato; it should easily slide in with little resistance.
5. Serve:
   • Once baked, remove the potatoes from the oven. Let them cool for a few minutes before cutting them open.
   • Slice a slit across the top of each potato, gently squeeze the ends to open, and fluff the inside with a fork.
   • Add your favorite toppings such as butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, chives, bacon bits, or any other garnishes you love.

Tips:

• If you want extra crispy skins, you can bake the potatoes directly on the oven rack, as it allows air to circulate around them.
• If you want to speed up the baking process, you can microwave the potatoes for 5-6 minutes to start the cooking process, then finish them off in the oven for a crispier exterior.

Enjoy your perfect baked potatoes!