Hands down, this is the best ever baked potato recipe!

 

Hands Down, This Is the Best Ever Baked Potato Recipe!

There’s nothing quite like a perfectly baked potato—crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and ready to be loaded with your favorite toppings. While it may seem like a basic side dish, a great baked potato is a thing of beauty when done right. And this recipe? It’s the best ever. Hands down.

Whether you're pairing it with steak, chili, or simply loading it up with butter and cheese, this baked potato recipe will take your side-dish game to the next level.

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What Makes This Baked Potato the Best?

✔️ Crispy, golden skin
✔️ Light and fluffy interior
✔️ Simple ingredients, flawless results
✔️ No foil needed (seriously!)
✔️ Perfect every single time

This method has been tested and loved by home cooks and picky eaters alike. Once you try it, you’ll never go back to microwaved or foil-wrapped potatoes again.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 large russet potatoes (the classic choice for baking)

• Olive oil (or melted butter, if you’re feeling indulgent)

• Kosher salt

• Freshly ground black pepper (optional)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is key for crispy skin and fluffy insides.

Step 2: Prep the Potatoes

Scrub the potatoes well under cold water to remove any dirt (leave the skins on — they’re the best part!). Pat dry with a towel.

Use a fork to poke holes all over each potato. This allows steam to escape during baking so they don’t burst.

Step 3: Oil & Season

Rub each potato generously with olive oil, then sprinkle with kosher salt. This step is what gives you that crunchy, flavorful skin. Add a bit of black pepper if desired.

Pro tip: Don’t wrap the potatoes in foil — it steams them and ruins the crispy skin!

Step 4: Bake

Place the potatoes directly on the middle oven rack. You can place a baking sheet on the rack below to catch any drips.

Bake for 45–60 minutes, depending on size, until the skin is crispy and a fork slides easily into the center.

Step 5: Fluff and Serve

Remove from the oven and let them sit for 5 minutes. Then, slice open lengthwise and squeeze the ends to fluff the interior.

Top with butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, chives, bacon bits—or go wild with your favorite toppings.

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Optional Topping Ideas

• Classic: Butter, sour cream, shredded cheddar, green onions

• Loaded: Chili, jalapeños, cheese sauce, bacon

• Healthy: Greek yogurt, steamed broccoli, a sprinkle of paprika

• Gourmet: Crumbled blue cheese, caramelized onions, and arugula

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FAQs

Can I use another type of potato?
Russets are best because of their starchy texture and thick skins. Other types (like Yukon Gold) can work, but the result won’t be as fluffy.

Do I really need to poke holes?
Yes! It helps steam escape and prevents your potato from exploding in the oven.

Can I bake them ahead of time?
Absolutely. Reheat in a 375°F oven for 10–15 minutes to re-crisp the skin.

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Final Thoughts

If you’ve ever wondered how restaurants make those picture-perfect baked potatoes with crispy skins and cloud-like centers, this is it. No fancy gadgets. No foil. No shortcuts. Just a straightforward technique that delivers delicious results every time.

Next time you're craving a comforting side dish—or even a simple, satisfying main—remember this recipe. It’s not just good. It’s the best ever baked potato, hands down.