Perfect baked potatoes are crispy on the outside with properly seasoned skin, and tender on the inside. You don't need special tools or ingredients to achieve these results every time. A thin layer of extra virgin olive oil will crisp up the exterior while allowing salt and pepper to adhere to the skin. A fork can be used to create small vent holes in the skin, which allows steam to escape during baking. In one hour, you can have a perfect baked potato that can be enjoyed on it's own, alongside your favorite meal, or loaded up with delicious toppings such as sour cream and chives for a fun appetizer.
Things You'll Need
Russet potatoes
Extra virgin olive oil
Ground black pepper
Kosher salt
Baking sheet lined with aluminum foil
Fork
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1. Clean the potatoes
Scrub the potatoes under cold water. If there are any eyes or sprouts, use a small spoon or paring knife to carefully remove them.
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2. Add oil and spices
Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Rub a small amount of extra virgin olive oil all over the potatoes, just enough to leave a thin coating. Sprinkle the potatoes with salt and pepper.
3. Puncture the skin
Gently press the tines of a fork into each potato numerous times on all sides. The idea isn't to pierce the flesh but the skin. This will allow steam to escape during the cooking process, and will prevent the skin from splitting.
4. Bake
Bake for 55 to 60 minutes, using tongs to carefully flip the potatoes two to three times during the cooking process. Remove from the oven, slice in half, and serve.
Tip
Baked potatoes are wonderful served on their own with a bit of butter, salt and pepper. But you can also get creative with toppings such as sour cream, cheddar cheese, green onions, or chives.
