Description

Baked potatoes are a classic and comforting dish that’s easy to make and perfect as a side or even a main course. With their crispy skin and fluffy interior, baked potatoes are the perfect canvas for a wide range of toppings, from classic butter and sour cream to bacon, cheese, and chives. Whether you’re making them for a casual dinner or a special occasion, baked potatoes are always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

4 medium-sized russet potatoes
Olive oil (for brushing)
Salt (for sprinkling)
Optional toppings: butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, bacon bits, chives, or any other favorite toppings

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a towel.
Pierce each potato a few times with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.
Rub each potato with a light coating of olive oil, then sprinkle with salt to season the skin.
Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet for easier cleanup.
Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork or knife.
Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
Cut a slit in the top of each potato and gently press the sides to open it up. Fluff the inside with a fork.
Add your favorite toppings and serve.

Notes

Loaded Baked Potato: Top your baked potato with a mixture of sour cream, shredded cheese, bacon bits, and chives for a hearty meal.
Cheesy Baked Potato: Add a layer of shredded cheese inside the potato after baking, and return to the oven for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Vegan Baked Potato: Use dairy-free butter and top with plant-based sour cream, vegan cheese, and sautéed vegetables for a dairy-free version.
Herb-Infused Baked Potato: Mix some garlic powder, rosemary, and thyme into the olive oil before rubbing it onto the potatoes for an added depth of flavor.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 45-60 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 potato
Calories: 160
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 10mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 31g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 5mg