Baked potatoes are a classic comfort food, easy to make and incredibly versatile. Here’s a simple recipe for you:
Ingredients:
- Russet potatoes (1 per person)
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Optional toppings like butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, chives, bacon bits, etc.
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven: Set it to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, scrub the potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt.
- Prepare the potatoes: Pat them dry with a paper towel, then pierce each potato several times with a fork. This allows steam to escape during baking and prevents the potatoes from bursting.
- Oil and season: Rub each potato with olive oil, then sprinkle them generously with salt. This helps to create a crispy skin and adds flavor.
- Bake: Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 45-60 minutes, depending on the size of your potatoes. They’re done when you can easily insert a fork into the center and the skin is crispy.
- Serve: Once they’re done, remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, using a sharp knife, make a lengthwise slit across the top of each potato and gently squeeze the ends to open them up. Add your favorite toppings like butter, sour cream, cheese, chives, or anything else you like.
- Enjoy: Serve your delicious baked potatoes as a side dish or even as a main course with some added protein like grilled chicken or steak.
Feel free to customize your baked potatoes with whatever toppings you like best. They’re great for a simple weeknight meal or as part of a larger feast!
