Baked potatoes are a classic comfort food that can be enjoyed as a simple side dish or dressed up with various toppings as a meal on their own. Below are two baked potato recipes: one is a classic, straightforward method for creating the perfect baked potato with crispy skin and fluffy inside, and the other is a more indulgent twice-baked potato filled with flavorful additions.
Classic Baked Potato
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the Potatoes: Wash the potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry. Prick each potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Season: Rub the outside of each potato with olive oil, then season generously with salt and pepper. This will help to create a crispy skin.
- Bake: Place the potatoes directly on the middle rack of your oven (you can place a sheet of aluminum foil on the rack below to catch any drips). Bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the inside is soft and fluffy when tested with a fork.
- Serve: Slice open the top of the baked potato, fluff the inside with a fork, and serve with your favorite toppings such as butter, sour cream, chives, shredded cheese, bacon bits, or chilies.
Twice-Baked Potatoes
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 4 green onions, thinly sliced, divided
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: cooked and crumbled bacon, additional toppings as desired