🥔 Classic Baked Potato
🍽️ Serves: 4
⏱️ Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
🛒 Ingredients:
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4 large russet potatoes (the best for baking)
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1–2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
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Kosher salt (for crispy skin)
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Optional toppings:
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Butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, bacon bits, chives
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👩🍳 Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Scrub & prep potatoes:
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Scrub potatoes clean and pat dry.
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Prick each potato several times with a fork (to let steam escape).
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Rub with olive oil or melted butter and sprinkle with salt.
3. Bake:
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Place potatoes directly on the oven rack (use a baking sheet underneath to catch any drips).
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Bake for 45–60 minutes, until skin is crispy and a knife slides in easily.
✅ Want even crispier skin? Bake them a bit longer uncovered, or broil for the last 2–3 minutes.
4. Serve:
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Slice open the top and gently squeeze ends to fluff the insides.
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Add your favorite toppings and serve hot.
🍽️ Topping Ideas:
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Classic: Butter, sour cream, cheddar, chives
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Loaded: Crumbled bacon, green onions, ranch
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Tex-Mex: Salsa, black beans, jalapeños, pepper jack
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Healthy: Greek yogurt, steamed broccoli, a sprinkle of lemon juice
🔄 Variations:
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Microwave shortcut: Cook on high for 5–7 minutes per potato, then crisp in the oven for 10 minutes.
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Air fryer baked potatoes: 400°F for 35–40 minutes — super crispy!
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Twice-baked potatoes: Scoop out the inside, mix with cheese/sour cream, stuff back in, and bake again.
Want a stuffed baked potato recipe (like taco, chicken, or veggie versions)? Just let me know!
