What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade baked potato recipe is a game-changer for your meals, offering comfort and flavor in every bite, plus it’s super easy to make. You’ll love how versatile it is—pair it with anything from a hearty steak to a simple salad for a satisfying dish. The crispy skin and fluffy interior are a perfect match, delivering that classic texture everyone craves. Best of all, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients, making it a healthier choice than store-bought options.
Recipe
Intro:
A perfectly baked potato is crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. This simple recipe guarantees a delicious result every time, making it an ideal side dish or a meal on its own.
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- Optional toppings: butter, sour cream, chives, shredded cheese, bacon bits
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Scrub potatoes clean and pat dry.
- Pierce each potato several times with a fork.
- Rub potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
- Place directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 45–60 minutes, until tender when pierced with a fork.
- Let cool slightly before slicing open and adding desired toppings.
Notes:
- For extra crispiness, rub potatoes with oil and salt before baking.
- Avoid wrapping in foil, as it steams the potato instead of baking it.
Equipment:
- Baking sheet or oven rack
- Fork
- Brush (optional, for oil)
Time:
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cooking time: 45–60 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: 4 servings
Nutrition
Baked potatoes are a nutritious and versatile dish. Here’s the nutritional breakdown for one medium-sized baked potato (173g) with skin:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 161 |
| Protein | 4.3g |
| Carbohydrates | 36.6g |
| Fiber | 3.8g |
| Fat | 0.2g |
| Vitamin C | 28% DV |
| Potassium | 26% DV |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my baked potato with simple yet flavorful side dishes, like roasted veggies or a crisp green salad. For toppings, I can’t resist loading it up with classics like sour cream, chives, or even a sprinkle of bacon bits. Experimenting with different combinations keeps it exciting, and I’m always curious to hear what you enjoy adding!
Side Dishes
When you’re serving a baked potato, it’s good to think about balance—something fresh, something creamy, and maybe a little crunch. I love pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli for that fresh element. A side of creamy coleslaw or a dollop of sour cream-based dip can complement the potato’s richness nicely. For crunch, roasted veggies like asparagus or zucchini work wonders, or even some garlic bread on the side. Don’t forget proteins—grilled chicken, roasted turkey, or black beans add heartiness. Mix and match based on your mood, and you’ll have a meal that feels complete.
Topping Ideas
Now that we’ve got the sides covered, let’s talk about the star of the show—the toppings! I love loading my baked potato with creamy butter, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of chives for a classic touch. If I’m feeling adventurous, I’ll add crispy bacon bits, shredded cheddar, and a drizzle of ranch dressing. For a healthier twist, I’ll toss on steamed broccoli, a bit of salsa, and a handful of black beans. Sometimes, I keep it simple with just a pat of garlic herb butter. The options are endless, so get creative and make it your own!
