Perfect Oven-Baked Potato

🥔 Crispy Skin, Fluffy Center, and Melting Butter in Every Bite

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 50–60 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 large Russet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 4 tablespoons butter
• Optional toppings:
  • Sour cream
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Chopped green onions
  • Crispy bacon bits
  • Chives

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Wash the potatoes thoroughly under cold water and scrub the skins clean. Pat completely dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Season the Skins

Rub each potato with olive oil. Sprinkle generously with sea salt and black pepper. This helps create that delicious crispy skin.

Using a fork, poke each potato 5–6 times to allow steam to escape while baking.

Step 3: Bake

Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet.

Bake for 50–60 minutes, depending on size, until the skins are crisp and a fork easily pierces the center.

Step 4: Fluff the Potato

Remove from the oven and let cool for 2–3 minutes.

Cut a slit down the center of each potato and gently squeeze the ends to open it up. Use a fork to fluff the inside.

Step 5: Add Butter and Serve

Place a generous pat of butter into the hot potato and allow it to melt into the fluffy center.

Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Optional Loaded Baked Potato

For a heartier meal, top with:

• Sour cream
• Cheddar cheese
• Green onions
• Bacon bits

Return to the oven for 3–5 minutes to melt the cheese.

Tips for the Best Baked Potatoes

✅ Russet potatoes work best because they become extra fluffy inside.
✅ Don’t wrap them in foil if you want crispy skin.
✅ The skin is completely edible and contains fiber and nutrients.
✅ For extra-crispy skin, brush with a little more oil during the last 10 minutes of baking.

🥔✨ Simple, comforting, and absolutely delicious—especially when the butter melts into that fluffy potato center! 😋