Description
How to make perfect baked potatoes with crispy skin and fluffy interiors that are a healthy lunch snack your family will love.
Ingredients
Scale
- The Foundation for Fluffy Potatoes:
- 4–6 large Russet Potatoes
- 2–3 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1–2 teaspoons Kosher Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper
- Rich Flavor Enhancers:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) Unsalted Butter, softened
- 1/2 cup Sour Cream
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Chives, chopped
- Subtle Seasoning Boosters:
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- Optional Toppings & Finishing Touches:
- 1/2 cup Crispy Bacon Bits
- For serving Flaky Sea Salt
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prep Potatoes: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub Russet potatoes clean under cold water, then pat them completely dry. Prick each potato 5-6 times with a fork. This allows steam to escape, ensuring fluffy interiors for your Baked Potatoes and preventing bursts.
- Season Potatoes: Drizzle the dried, pricked potatoes with olive oil, then rub to coat evenly. Sprinkle generously with kosher salt and black pepper. This simple coating helps create that irresistible crispy skin for your Ultimate Perfect Baked Potatoes. Place them directly on the oven rack.
- Bake Potatoes: Bake the potatoes for 50-60 minutes at 400°F (200°C). They are ready when the skin is crispy and the interior feels fork-tender. A gentle squeeze confirms their perfect softness. Longer baking yields extra crispy skin for your delicious Baked Potatoes.
- Prepare Toppings: While potatoes bake, prepare your delicious toppings. In a bowl, combine softened butter, sour cream, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir until well combined. This creamy mix will perfectly complement your fluffy potato interiors.
- Assemble Potatoes: Once baked, carefully remove the potatoes. Make a deep slit lengthwise across the top of each potato, without cutting through. Gently squeeze the ends to push the fluffy interior upwards. It’s now ready for your delicious creamy filling.
- Serve Potatoes: Spoon a generous dollop of your creamy butter and cheese mixture into each potato. Garnish with fresh chives and chopped parsley. For an extra treat, sprinkle with crispy bacon bits. Serve these comforting Ultimate Perfect Baked Potatoes right away.
Notes
Pat potatoes completely dry and prick thoroughly before oiling for irresistibly crispy skin, preventing sogginess.
Store cooled leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Always use Russet potatoes for their fluffy interior; waxy varieties won’t achieve the desired texture.
Serve baked potatoes hot, split open, with toppings on the side for customization, or with a crisp green salad.
For next-level crispy skin, finish your baked potatoes under the broiler for 3-5 minutes.
**Allergy Information:** Dairy