Ultimate Crispy-Baked Russet Potatoes
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these perfectly baked russet potatoes, featuring golden, crispy skin that gives way to a soft, flaky interior. Great for serving solo or as a base for all your favorite toppings like sour cream, fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of sea salt. These versatile potatoes can also be transformed into twice-baked delights or crunchy potato skins. Perfectly sized for even cooking, they are a delicious addition to any meal, whether it's a cozy dinner for two or a gathering with friends. Get ready to enjoy the simple, yet heavenly flavors of a classic baked potato done right!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
3
Ingredients
Ingredients
Russet baking potatoes
2 (without a greenish cast and blemishes, washed and dried)
Olive oil
as needed (for coating)
Kosher salt
to taste (for sprinkling)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Thoroughly wash and dry the russet potatoes, ensuring that each potato is clean and free from blemishes.
3
Using a fork, pierce each potato all around, making 3-4 deep stabs to allow steam to escape while baking. This step is crucial to avoid bursting potatoes during cooking.
4
Lightly coat each potato with olive oil, making sure to rub it into the skin for an even distribution.
5
If desired, sprinkle kosher salt generously over the oiled potatoes to enhance flavor and contribute to a crispier skin.
6
Place the potatoes directly on the middle rack of the preheated oven. Bake for 1 to 1.5 hours, adjusting time based on the size of your potatoes.
7
Check for doneness by squeezing the potatoes gently; they should feel soft and yield easily. The skin should be puffed up and golden-brown. If they need more time, continue baking, checking every 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best temperature to bake russet potatoes?
The recommended temperature for baking these russet potatoes is 350°F (175°C).
How long does it take to bake russet potatoes in the oven?
Baking typically takes between 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the size of the potatoes.
Why should I pierce the potatoes with a fork before baking?
Piercing the potatoes with 3-4 deep stabs allows steam to escape, which prevents the potatoes from bursting during the cooking process.
How can I ensure the potato skin is extra crispy?
To achieve crispy skin, coat the potatoes in olive oil and sprinkle them generously with kosher salt before placing them in the oven.
Should I bake potatoes on a baking sheet or directly on the oven rack?
For even heat distribution and the best results, place the potatoes directly on the middle rack of the preheated oven.
What type of potatoes are best for this recipe?
Russet baking potatoes are ideal because they result in a golden, crispy skin and a soft, flaky interior.
Is it necessary to wash the potatoes?
Yes, you should thoroughly wash and dry the russet potatoes to ensure they are clean and free from blemishes before cooking.
How do I know when the baked potatoes are done?
The potatoes are done when they feel soft and yield easily when gently squeezed. The skin should also appear puffed up and golden-brown.
What should I do if my potatoes are not soft after 1.5 hours?
If they need more time, continue baking and check them every 10-15 minutes until they reach the desired softness.
Can I use these baked potatoes for other recipes?
Yes, these potatoes are versatile and can be transformed into twice-baked potatoes or crunchy potato skins.
What are some suggested toppings for baked potatoes?
Popular toppings include sour cream, fresh herbs, or a simple sprinkle of sea salt.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this baked potato recipe is vegetarian-friendly.
Does this recipe contain dairy or lactose?
This basic recipe is lactose-free as it only uses potatoes, olive oil, and salt.
How many ingredients are required?
This recipe requires only 3 main ingredients: russet potatoes, olive oil, and kosher salt.
What kind of salt is best for seasoning the skin?
Kosher salt is recommended for its texture and ability to enhance flavor while contributing to a crispier skin.
Can I bake just one potato or a dozen using this method?
This method is scalable and works whether you are cooking for a solo meal or a large gathering.
What should I look for when selecting russet potatoes?
Choose potatoes without a greenish cast or visible blemishes for the best flavor and texture.
How many times should I stab the potato with a fork?
You should make 3 to 4 deep stabs all around each potato.
Why do I need to dry the potatoes after washing?
Drying the potatoes ensures that the olive oil adheres properly to the skin, which is essential for achieving a crispy texture.
Is olive oil necessary?
While you can bake a potato without it, olive oil is the key to getting that signature golden-brown, crispy skin.
What is the interior texture of a properly baked russet?
A properly baked russet potato should have a soft and flaky interior.
Does the oven rack position matter?
Yes, placing them on the middle rack ensures even airflow and consistent cooking.
Can I use table salt instead of kosher salt?
Yes, but kosher salt is preferred for its larger grains which better assist in crisping the skin.
What is the preparation time?
The preparation is quick—washing, drying, piercing, and oiling takes only a few minutes before the long bake.
Is this a side dish or a main course?
It is traditionally served as a side dish but can be a main course depending on the toppings used.
Do I need to wrap the potatoes in foil?
No, for crispy skin, you should avoid foil and place the potatoes directly on the oven rack.
How deep should the fork stabs be?
The stabs should be deep enough to reach the center to effectively release steam.
Can I use other types of oil?
Olive oil is suggested for flavor, but other high-smoke point oils can be used if necessary.
What determines the exact baking time?
The size and density of the specific russet potatoes used will determine if they take 60 or 90 minutes.
Is this recipe considered easy?
Yes, this is considered an easy recipe suitable for cooks of all skill levels.