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Perfect Baked Potato

Crispy-skinned baked potatoes with fluffy interiors topped with classic loaded potato favorites.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

Potatoes
  • 4 russet potatoes large
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp coarse sea salt
Toppings
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 0.5 cup sour cream
  • 2 tbsp fresh chives chopped
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 0.5 cup bacon bits optional

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Fork
  • Oven rack
  • Mixing bowls

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Wash and scrub potatoes thoroughly, then pat completely dry.
  3. Pierce potatoes several times with a fork.
  4. Rub potatoes with olive oil and coat generously with sea salt.
  5. Place potatoes directly on oven rack with baking sheet underneath.
  6. Bake 50–60 minutes until skins are crispy and interiors are tender.
  7. Slice potatoes open carefully and fluff interiors with a fork.
  8. Top with butter, cheddar cheese, sour cream, chives, black pepper, and bacon bits before serving.

Notes

For extra crispy skins, avoid wrapping potatoes in foil and bake directly on the oven rack.