Perfect Baked Potato (Crispy Skin, Fluffy Center, Every Single Time)
Theo BennettThe essentials:
1 large russet potato (about 12-14 oz)
1 teaspoon olive oil or vegetable oil
½ teaspoon kosher salt (plus more for the interior)
Optional: butter, sour cream, cheese, chives, bacon, etc.
Why russet? Russet potatoes are the best choice for baking. They have a high starch content, which gives them that fluffy, mealy texture when baked. Their thick skin also crisps up beautifully.
Let's Make the Perfect Baked Potato (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Choose the Right Potato
Start with a good russet potato. Look for one that's firm, with no soft spots, bruises, or green patches. The potato should feel heavy for its size, which means it's full of moisture and will bake up fluffy.
Step 2: Wash and Dry
Scrub the potato well under running water to remove any dirt. Pat it completely dry with a paper towel. This is crucial—if the potato is wet, the skin won't crisp up properly.
Step 3: Poke Holes
Using a fork, poke the potato several times on all sides. This allows steam to escape as it bakes, preventing the potato from bursting in the oven.
Step 4: Oil and Salt
Rub the potato all over with the oil. Then sprinkle it with the kosher salt, rubbing it in with your hands. The salt will stick to the oil, creating a flavorful, crispy crust.
Step 5: Bake (Two Methods)
Method 1: Traditional Oven BakingPreheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the potato directly on the oven rack (not on a baking sheet—this allows air to circulate evenly) and bake for 45-60 minutes, depending on the size of the potato. It's ready when a fork or skewer slides in easily with no resistance.
Method 2: The Faster MethodIf you're short on time, you can start the potato in the microwave. Microwave on high for 5-6 minutes, then transfer to a 425°F (220°C) oven for 15-20 minutes to crisp the skin. The microwave speeds up the cooking while the oven gives you that perfect crispy skin.
Step 6: Rest
Once the potato is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the interior to set and makes it easier to handle.
Step 7: Open and Fluff
Using a knife, cut a slit down the center of the potato. Press the ends of the potato together to open it up and reveal the fluffy interior. Gently fluff the inside with a fork—this creates more surface area for toppings and makes the potato lighter and fluffier.
Step 8: Top and Serve
Top the potato with butter, sour cream, cheese, chives, bacon, or your favorite toppings. Serve immediately.
Tips for the Perfect Baked Potato
Don't wrap in foil. Foil traps steam and makes the skin soft instead of crispy. The best baked potatoes are baked directly on the oven rack.
Use the right temperature. 425°F (220°C) is the sweet spot. High enough to crisp the skin, low enough to cook the interior evenly.
Don't overbake. Overbaking dries out the potato. Check it a few minutes before the suggested time.
Let it rest. Resting allows the moisture to distribute evenly through the potato.
Season the interior. After you fluff the potato, sprinkle the inside with a pinch of salt before adding toppings.
Use a fork to fluff. Using a fork instead of a spoon creates more surface area and a lighter texture.
Save the leftover potatoes. Baked potatoes are great for meal prep. Make extra and use them for hash browns, potato skins, or potato salads.
Variations to Make It Your Own
Loaded Baked Potato: Top with butter, sour cream, shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, and chopped chives.
Chili Baked Potato: Top with chili, shredded cheese, and sour cream.
Broccoli and Cheese Baked Potato: Top with steamed broccoli and a generous amount of shredded cheddar.
Mexican Baked Potato: Top with seasoned black beans, salsa, avocado, and a squeeze of lime.
Greek Baked Potato: Top with tzatziki, feta, olives, and fresh tomatoes.
BBQ Chicken Baked Potato: Top with shredded BBQ chicken, red onion, and cheddar cheese.
Buffalo Chicken Baked Potato: Top with shredded buffalo chicken, blue cheese, and celery.
Pizza Baked Potato: Top with marinara sauce, mozzarella, pepperoni, and fresh basil.
Herb Baked Potato: Top with herb butter, fresh parsley, and a sprinkle of chives.
What to Serve With a Baked Potato
A baked potato is a versatile side that pairs well with:
Steak (classic steakhouse style)
Grilled chicken
Roast beef
Pork chops
Fish or shrimp
A simple green salad
A bowl of soup or chili
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Refrigerator: Store leftover baked potatoes in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, or in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes. To re-crisp the skin, rub the potato with a little oil before reheating.
Freezer: Baked potatoes can be frozen. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best potato for baking?Russet potatoes are the best choice. They have a high starch content that gives them a fluffy, mealy texture when baked.
Should I wrap my potato in foil?No. Foil traps steam and makes the skin soft. For a crispy skin, bake the potato directly on the oven rack.
How long does a baked potato take?At 425°F, a medium potato takes about 45-60 minutes. A large potato may take up to 75 minutes.
How do I know when it's done?The potato is done when a fork or skewer slides in easily with no resistance. The skin should feel crisp and the potato should feel slightly soft when squeezed.
Can I bake multiple potatoes at once?Yes. Just make sure they have enough space to allow air to circulate. Don't overcrowd the oven.
Can I make baked potatoes in the microwave?Yes. Microwave on high for 5-6 minutes per potato, then finish in the oven for 15-20 minutes to crisp the skin.
A Final, Fluffy Thought
There's something deeply satisfying about a perfect baked potato. It's humble, honest, and deceptively simple. When done right, it's the kind of dish that makes you pause and appreciate the small pleasures in life.
I used to think a baked potato was just a boring side dish. Now I know it's a canvas. A foundation. A vessel for butter, cheese, bacon, and all the other good things in life.
And when it's made right—crispy skin, fluffy center, perfectly seasoned—it's one of the most comforting things you can eat.
I hope this recipe helps you make the perfect baked potato. I hope it becomes a regular part of your meal rotation. And I hope you enjoy every single bite.
Now go make some perfect baked potatoes. They're waiting for you.
Do you have a favorite way to top a baked potato—classic butter and sour cream, or something more adventurous? Share your tips and recipes in the comments—I'd love to hear how you make this simple dish your own! 🥔🧈