Basic Baked Potato Recipe
Ingredients
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4 medium russet potatoes
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2 teaspoons olive oil (or butter)
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Salt (to taste)
Optional toppings: butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, bacon bits, chives, broccoli, or any favorite toppings.
Instructions
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Preheat oven:
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Set oven to 425°F (220°C).
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Prepare potatoes:
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Scrub the potatoes thoroughly to remove dirt.
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Pat dry with a towel.
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Pierce each potato several times with a fork (prevents steam from bursting).
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Oil and season:
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Rub each potato with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
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Bake:
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Place potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet.
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Bake for 45–60 minutes, depending on size, until the skin is crisp and a fork easily pierces the flesh.
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Serve:
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Slice open the top, fluff the inside with a fork, and add your favorite toppings.
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Tips for Perfect Baked Potatoes
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Crispier skin: Bake directly on the oven rack rather than a pan.
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Fluffy inside: Choose russet potatoes, which are starchy and ideal for baking.
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Microwave shortcut: Cook for 5–10 minutes per potato, then finish in the oven for crispy skin.
If you want, I can also give a gourmet version of baked potato with a creamy inside and toppings like caramelized onions, garlic butter, and melted cheese—basically a restaurant-style loaded potato at home.
Do you want me to do that?
