Description
This recipe for Crispy Baked Potatoes delivers perfectly crispy skins and fluffy interiors using simple seasonings and olive oil. Baked at a high temperature for an hour, these russet potatoes make a versatile side dish that can be customized with your favorite toppings like fresh herbs, butter, or sour cream.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes
- 4 medium-sized russet potatoes
Seasonings and Oil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or foil to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Prepare Potatoes: Wash and scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Pat them dry completely to ensure the skins crisp up nicely during baking.
- Poke and Season: Using a fork, poke several holes into each potato to allow steam to escape while baking. Coat each potato evenly with olive oil, then season all over with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika if using.
- Bake Potatoes: Place the seasoned potatoes on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes. Flip the potatoes halfway through baking to ensure even cooking and crisping on all sides. The potatoes are ready when the skins are crisp and the interior is tender when pierced with a fork.
- Serve: Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly. Slice each potato open and fluff the insides with a fork. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives and serve with your preferred toppings such as butter, sour cream, or cheese.
Notes
- For extra crispy skins, use russet potatoes as they have a thicker skin that’s ideal for baking.
- Flipping the potatoes halfway ensures even baking and crispiness on all sides.
- Optional seasonings like garlic powder and paprika add flavor but can be omitted for a simpler taste.
- Allow the potatoes to cool slightly before slicing to avoid steam burns and to help the interior fluff up nicely.
- Serve with your choice of toppings like sour cream, cheese, bacon bits, or chives for additional flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American