Hey y’all! If there’s one side dish that never goes out of style, it’s the classic Baked Potato in Oven. With irresistibly crisp skin and a pillowy, fluffy center, these baked potatoes make the perfect canvas for any topping and are a surefire hit for casual weeknights, backyard barbecues, or special get-togethers. Whether you’re going for loaded, classic, or simple and healthy, I promise this recipe will become your go-to. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Baked Potato in Oven Recipe
- Super easy with just a handful of simple pantry staples.
- Baked to golden perfection—crisp skins and beautifully fluffy interiors every time.
- Works for any occasion, from quick weekday dinners to festive gatherings.
- Totally customizable with your favorite toppings or seasonings.
- Perfect for meal prep or make-ahead meals, thanks to its easy reheating and storage.
Ingredients for Baked Potato in Oven
- 4 large russet potatoes (about 8-10 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
How to Make Baked Potato in Oven: Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
Scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly under cool water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry using paper towels, then use a fork to poke each potato 5-6 times all over. This helps steam escape as they bake, ensuring the perfect fluffy inside.
Step 2: Season and Oil for Ultimate Crispiness
Brush each potato all over with olive oil. Sprinkle with kosher salt and black pepper, making sure to cover every side for savory flavor and extra crispiness.
Step 3: Bake in the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the prepared potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet lined with foil to catch any drips. Bake for 50-60 minutes, flipping halfway through. The potatoes are done when a fork slides in easily, and the skin is crisp.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the potatoes from the oven. Let them cool slightly before slicing open lengthwise and fluffing the insides with a fork. Add your favorite toppings—classic butter and sour cream, shredded cheese, or chopped chives—and enjoy!
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Notes & Tips for Baked Potato in Oven
- For extra crispy skins, skip wrapping the potatoes in foil and bake them directly on the oven rack for optimal air circulation.
- Russet potatoes are the best choice as they have the fluffiest interiors—learn more about potato varieties at Love Food Hate Waste.
- Insert a skewer or paring knife into the center to check doneness; if it slides in easily, your potato is ready!
Variations on Classic Baked Potato in Oven
- Loaded Baked Potatoes: Top with crispy bacon, shredded cheddar, and chopped green onions.
- Herb & Garlic Baked Potatoes: Rub with minced garlic and chopped fresh herbs before baking.
- Vegan Delight: Use plant-based butter, non-dairy cheese, and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast (learn about nutritional yeast).
Required Equipment for Baked Potato in Oven
- Oven
- Baking sheet (optional)
- Fork
- Pastry brush or hands (for oil)
- Kitchen towel or paper towels
How to Store Baked Potato in Oven Leftovers
Let baked potatoes cool to room temperature, then wrap tightly in foil or store in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes for best texture or microwave for 2-3 minutes. Tip: Don’t freeze whole baked potatoes as texture can become watery.
What to Serve with Baked Potato in Oven
- Pair with grilled steak, roast chicken, or baked salmon for the ultimate hearty meal.
- Serve as a side with your favorite chili, stew, or soup for extra comfort.
- Turn baked potatoes into a main course by setting up a toppings bar with steamed broccoli, salsa, or black beans!
Pro Tips for the Perfect Baked Potato in Oven
- Start with room temperature potatoes—cold potatoes can bake unevenly (see this technique guide).
- Generously oil and salt the potatoes for ultra-crispy, flavorful skins.
- Let potatoes rest a few minutes after baking (steam inside keeps the flesh extra fluffy).
Frequently Asked Questions: Baked Potato in Oven
-
Do I need to wrap potatoes in foil when baking?
Nope! Baking directly on the rack without foil leads to crispier skin, although foil can keep them softer if you prefer. -
How do I know when my baked potato is done?
Potatoes are finished when you can easily pierce them with a fork or knife and the skin is satisfyingly crisp. -
Can I use a different potato variety?
Yes! Yukon Golds can be used for a creamier texture but russets are best for super fluffy centers.
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
Instructions
-
1Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
-
2Scrub the potatoes clean under running water and pat them dry with a towel.
-
3Pierce each potato several times with a fork. Rub potatoes with olive oil, then sprinkle with sea salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
-
4Place the seasoned potatoes directly onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 55-60 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the skins are crisp and the inside is tender.
-
5Remove potatoes from the oven. Make a slit in the top of each potato, fluff the insides with a fork, and top with butter, chives, and sour cream if desired. Serve hot.
CLICK FOR NUTRITION INFO
↑
Approximate Information for One Serving
Serving Size:
1 serving
Calories:
260 caloriescal
Protein:
5 gg
Fat:
8 gg
Saturated Fat:
0g
Trans Fat:
0g
Cholesterol:
0mg
Sodium:
0mg
Potassium:
0mg
Total Carbs:
43 gg
Fiber:
0g
Sugar:
0g
Net Carbs:
0g
Vitamin A:
0
Vitamin C:
0mg
Calcium:
0mg
Iron:
0mg
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
Did you make this recipe?
Please consider Pinning it!!
