Baked potatoes are one of the simplest yet most satisfying comfort foods you can make at home. The image you shared shows a beautifully cooked potato with a crispy skin, fluffy interior, a melting pat of butter, and a sprinkle of chopped green onions. This classic preparation may look simple, but when done right, it delivers an incredible combination of texture, flavor, and aroma. In this detailed recipe, you’ll learn how to create the perfect baked potato with a golden-brown skin and soft interior, along with tips to elevate the dish and optimize it for maximum flavor.
Why This Baked Potato Recipe Works
A great baked potato depends on three things: good seasoning, the right oven temperature, and proper cooking time. Many people rush the process or wrap the potato in foil, which softens the skin instead of giving it the desired crispiness. In this recipe, the potato is baked uncovered, rubbed with oil and salt, and cooked long enough to let the interior become airy and cloud-like. By cutting into it while hot and adding butter, pepper, and chopped green onions, you get a potato that’s rich, fragrant, and deeply satisfying.
This recipe is also budget-friendly, family-friendly, and endlessly customizable. You can enjoy it as a side dish, a light meal, or load it with toppings for a hearty lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 large russet potato (the best for baking due to high starch content)
- 1–2 tablespoons of butter
- 1 teaspoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- Salt (preferably coarse or kosher salt)
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped green onions or chives
- Optional toppings: sour cream, grated cheese, bacon bits, garlic powder, paprika, ranch dressing, or parsley
Instructions
1. Prepare the Potato
Select a large, firm russet potato. These potatoes are perfect for baking because they become fluffy on the inside while maintaining a crispy outer skin. Rinse the potato thoroughly under running water to remove dirt. Scrub it gently using a vegetable brush, then pat dry with a clean towel. The skin is an essential part of the texture, so make sure it’s clean.
After drying, poke the potato several times with a fork. This step allows steam to escape during cooking and prevents the potato from bursting in the oven.
2. Season the Skin
Place the potato on a tray or board and rub the entire surface with a thin layer of olive oil. The oil helps the skin crisp up beautifully. Sprinkle salt generously over the entire potato—this step enhances the flavor and improves texture. For even better results, use coarse salt so it sticks to the skin and creates a crunchy bite.
3. Bake the Potato
Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Place the potato directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet for easier cleanup. Baking without foil is the key to achieving a crispy exterior.
Bake for 45–60 minutes, depending on the size of the potato. You’ll know it’s ready when the skin feels firm and crackly, and a knife slides into the center with no resistance.
4. Open and Fill
Once the potato is fully baked, transfer it to a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to slice it open lengthwise, gently pressing the sides so the interior fluffs up. Inside, the potato should be steaming, soft, and airy.
Place a pat of butter into the center while it’s hot, allowing it to melt deep into the fluffy potato. Season with black pepper, add a pinch of salt if needed, and sprinkle chopped green onions or chives on top.
Tips for the Best Baked Potato
Choose the right potato
Russet potatoes are ideal. Avoid waxy varieties like red potatoes, which stay firm instead of fluffy.
Oil and salt are important
These two ingredients transform the skin from plain to irresistibly crispy.
Don’t use foil
Wrapping potatoes in foil traps moisture and prevents the skin from crisping.
Serve immediately
Baked potatoes are best served hot because the butter melts perfectly and blends with the potato interior.
Optional Add-Ons to Build a Loaded Baked Potato
If you want to turn your simple butter potato into a fully loaded meal, try adding:
- Cheddar cheese: melts beautifully on the hot potato
- Sour cream: adds creaminess and tanginess
- Crispy bacon bits: for texture and smoky flavor
- Garlic butter: elevates aroma and richness
- Steamed broccoli: creates a balanced, nutritious topping
- Chili or minced beef: perfect for a hearty dinner
These additions make your potato more filling and allow you to customize it for any occasion.
Serving Suggestions
This baked potato pairs well with steak, chicken, fish, or grilled vegetables. It also works as a standalone lunch or light dinner. Add a fresh salad or a bowl of soup to complete the meal.
When serving guests, prepare a “baked potato bar” with toppings such as sour cream, cheese, chopped onions, herbs, spices, and proteins. It’s fun, easy, and customizable for everyone’s tastes.