There’s something truly magical about perfectly Crispy Baked Potatoes—those golden, crackly skins giving way to fluffy, steamy insides. Whether they’re dressed simply with butter or loaded to the max, this is the kind of comfort food that makes even weeknights feel special.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultra-Crispy Skin: The high-heat baking and olive oil rub give you a potato skin that cracks when you bite in, every single time.
- Fluffy, Tender Centers: The inside stays light and cloud-like thanks to just the right amount of salt and a gentle oven bake.
- Ridiculously Simple, Surprisingly Special: Just a handful of ingredients, but the results feel like a cozy little dinner-party treat for one (or more!).
- Totally Customizable: Top them any way you like—from absolute classic (butter and salt) to fully loaded—and make them your own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
I love that these Crispy Baked Potatoes require nothing fancy, yet every ingredient truly counts. Each item plays a role in guaranteeing that signature crispy outside and melt-in-your-mouth center.
- Russet potato: These starchy spuds are the gold standard for baked potatoes—when cooked right, they crisp beautifully and their interiors practically fluff themselves.
- Olive oil: Brushing the skins with olive oil is the secret to that satisfying crunch and gorgeous golden color.
- Kosher salt: Generous salt on the outside seasons the potato and helps draw out moisture for irresistible texture.
- Your favorite toppings: This is where you make things personal! Pick whatever makes your heart (and tastebuds) happy—think butter, sour cream, fresh chives, sharp cheese, or even crumbled bacon.
Variations
The beauty of these Crispy Baked Potatoes is how easy they are to make your own! Don’t be shy about switching things up—there’s a delicious baked potato for every mood, craving, or occasion.
- Herb-Infused Crispy Baked Potatoes: Add a sprinkle of dried rosemary, thyme, or garlic powder before baking for a fragrant, savory twist.
- Lighter Version: Use a quick mist of olive oil or avocado oil spray if you’re looking to cut back—still amazing crispness!
- Cheese-Stuffed: Once baked, slice open and tuck in a handful of grated sharp cheddar or Parmesan before fluffing for melty, cheesy goodness.
- Vegan Delight: Swap out butter and sour cream for plant-based versions and try topping with nutritional yeast, vegan cheese, or even a dollop of hummus.
How to Make Crispy Baked Potatoes
Step 1: Prep and Scrub
Preheat your oven to 400°F. While it’s warming up, give your russet potato a really thorough scrub under cold running water—getting rid of any dirt ensures both flavor and maximum crunch, since you’ll be eating that glorious skin. Dry the potato well with a paper towel, because dry skin equals crispy skin.
Step 2: Prick and Oil
Grab a fork and prick the potato all over—don’t skip this! It lets steam escape for an evenly cooked, fluffy inside. Next, brush every inch with olive oil (use your hands if you like getting messy), and sprinkle generously with kosher salt so it sticks to the glistening skin.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Place your prepped potato directly on a baking sheet. Slide it into the oven for about 1 hour (start checking smaller potatoes at 45 minutes). You’ll know it’s ready when a knife or toothpick slips in with zero resistance—think soft and pillowy all the way through.
Step 4: Fluff and Top
Carefully remove your potato (it’ll be hot and irresistibly aromatic!), slice open the top, and pinch the sides to open it up wide. Fluff the insides with a fork so they’re airy, then pile on your chosen toppings while the potato is still steaming. Serve it up while it’s piping hot and marvel at that crisp shell!
Pro Tips for Making Crispy Baked Potatoes
- Choose Starchy Potatoes: For that iconic crackle and fluff, always select large russet potatoes—waxy potatoes just won’t crisp the same way.
- Dry Thoroughly Before Baking: Extra moisture is the enemy of crunchy skins, so take the time to pat the potatoes dry after washing.
- Salt Generously: Don’t be afraid to use plenty of kosher salt—the bigger crystals help dry and flavor the skin as it bakes.
- Skip the Foil: Baking potatoes without foil allows the skin to crisp instead of steam, so resist the urge to wrap them up.
How to Serve Crispy Baked Potatoes
Garnishes
Classic garnishes make Crispy Baked Potatoes shine: a pat of salted butter, a dusting of cracked black pepper, a sprinkle of chopped chives, or a dollop of tangy sour cream. Love cheese? Freshly shredded cheddar melts right into the steamy center, and crispy bacon bits are always a welcome finishing touch.
Side Dishes
Crispy Baked Potatoes are the ultimate blank canvas for dinner. Serve alongside a juicy steak, a piece of roasted salmon, or a heaping salad for a meal that feels both hearty and fresh. They’re also a home-cooked upgrade for your next burger night or barbecue spread!
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing your baked potatoes lengthwise and fanning them out on individual plates, or throw a “potato bar” party—just set out bowls of toppings and let everyone build their dream spud. For an elegant touch, use a spoon to scoop and fluff the filling slightly, then pipe it back in and broil with cheese for a twice-baked effect.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Crispy Baked Potatoes can be cooled completely, wrapped tightly, and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. This makes it easy to pop one out for a quick meal or to repurpose for breakfast hash or potato salads.
Freezing
You can freeze baked potatoes! Just let them cool, then wrap in foil and slip them into a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for 2–3 months. Freeze un-topped, as garnishes fare best fresh.
Reheating
To regain a crisp skin, reheat your potato in a 400°F oven for about 20 minutes. Microwaving works for speed (about 2–3 minutes), but the oven is your best bet for bringing those crispy edges back to life.
FAQs
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Can I bake more than one potato at once?
Absolutely! Just give each potato plenty of space on the baking sheet so the hot air can circulate—this is key for evenly crisped skins. If you have a very full oven, the baking time might need a few extra minutes.
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Do I need to wrap my potatoes in foil?
No! Foil traps steam and results in soft, slightly soggy skins. For true Crispy Baked Potatoes, bake them naked on the sheet so the skins can roast and crackle.
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What’s the best way to get fluffy insides?
Thoroughly drying your potato before baking, pricking holes for steam, and baking at 400°F (not higher or lower) help guarantee a perfectly fluffy, moist interior every time.
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Can I use other types of potatoes?
Russets are the best for ultimate crispiness and fluff, but you can use Yukon Golds for a creamier inside or try red potatoes for a smaller, bite-size version—the skin won’t be as crunchy, but they’re still delicious!
Final Thoughts
There is just no resisting a tray of Crispy Baked Potatoes, hot from the oven and practically begging for your favorite toppings. Give them a try on your next cozy night in—they’ll turn an ordinary meal into something wonderfully satisfying and memorable. Enjoy every crispy, fluffy bite!
Print
Crispy Baked Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Learn how to make delicious crispy baked potatoes with this easy recipe. Perfectly crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these baked potatoes are a versatile and satisfying dish that you can customize with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 russet potato
- 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
Optional Toppings:
- Butter
- Sour cream
- Scallions
- Cheese
- Bacon crumbles
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Prepare the potato: Scrub the potato under cold water, pat dry, and prick all over with a fork.
- Season and bake: Place the potato on a baking sheet, brush with olive oil, sprinkle salt, and bake for about 1 hour until tender.
- Finish and serve: Slice open the potato, fluff the insides, add desired toppings, and serve hot.
Notes
- Choose potatoes that are similar in size for even cooking.
- Experiment with different toppings to create unique flavor combinations.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 potato
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 1760mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
