Perfect Baked Potatoes: Crispy Skin & Fluffy Inside

 

🥔🔥 The ultimate guide to flawless baked potatoes—crispy, salty skin and pillowy-soft, fluffy insides every time! Whether you’re meal prepping or hosting a dinner, this method never fails.

✨ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Perfect texture – Crispy skin + fluffy interior
✔ Hands-off cooking – Just prep and walk away
✔ Endlessly customizable – Load them with your favorite toppings
✔ Meal prep hero – Reheat beautifully all week

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📝 Ingredients & Tools

Ingredients (Per Potato)

• 1 large russet potato (look for firm, oval-shaped ones)

• 1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)

• ½ tsp kosher salt

• Optional: Black pepper, garlic powder, paprika

Toppings Bar Ideas

• Butter & sour cream

• Chives or green onions

• Shredded cheddar cheese

• Crispy bacon bits

• Broccoli & cheese sauce

• Chili

Essential Tools

• Baking sheet

• Fork

• Paper towels

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👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Potatoes

1. Scrub potatoes clean (no dirt left!).

2. Dry thoroughly with paper towels.

3. Poke 8-10 times with a fork (steam escape holes!).

2. Season & Oil

1. Rub each potato with oil.

2. Sprinkle generously with salt (and other spices if using).

3. Bake to Perfection

• Option 1 (Standard):

  • Bake directly on oven rack at 400°F (200°C) for 45-60 mins.

• Option 2 (Extra Crispy):

  • Place on baking sheet, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 45-55 mins.

4. Check for Doneness

• Squeeze gently (should give easily).

• Internal temp should be 205-210°F (96-99°C).

5. Serve

• Slice open and fluff insides with a fork.

• Load up with your favorite toppings!

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💡 Pro Tips for the Best Baked Potatoes

✅ Don’t wrap in foil – Wrapping steams them = soggy skin!
✅ Use russets – High starch content = fluffier insides.
✅ Rest before cutting – Let sit 5 mins for ideal texture.
✅ Make extra – Cool completely, store in fridge for up to 5 days.