Are you tired of soggy, lackluster baked potatoes that disappoint every single time? Get ready to revolutionize your side dish game with Martha Stewart's foolproof baked potato recipe that guarantees a crispy exterior and a cloud-like fluffy interior. This simple yet transformative technique will turn even the most novice home cook into a potato-baking pro, making your dinner guests wonder if you've secretly trained in a professional kitchen.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 60 mins
Total Time: 65 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes
- Olive oil
- Salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Ensure the oven rack is positioned in the center of the oven for even heating.
- Thoroughly wash the russet potatoes under cool running water, using a clean vegetable brush to remove any dirt or debris from the skin.
- Pat the potatoes completely dry with clean paper towels to ensure crisp skin during baking.
- Using a fork, gently pierce the potatoes multiple times all over their surface. This allows steam to escape during cooking and prevents potential potato explosions.
- Drizzle each potato with olive oil, then generously sprinkle kosher salt over the entire surface, ensuring even coverage.
- Place the prepared potatoes directly on the center oven rack, with a baking sheet on the rack below to catch any potential drips.
- Bake for approximately 50-60 minutes, or until the potato skin is crisp and golden, and the interior is soft when pierced with a fork.
- Remove potatoes from the oven using oven mitts and let them rest for 5 minutes to allow internal temperature to stabilize.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a lengthwise slit on top of each potato and gently squeeze the sides to open and fluff the interior.
- Serve immediately with optional toppings like butter, sour cream, chives, cheese, or bacon bits.
Tips
- Choose the Right Potato: Always select large, uniform russet potatoes for the best results. These starchy potatoes are perfect for achieving that classic fluffy interior.
- Moisture is the Enemy: Ensure your potatoes are completely dry before oiling and salting. Excess moisture prevents the skin from becoming deliciously crisp.
- Don't Skimp on Salt: Be generous with kosher salt - it's key to creating that irresistible, flavor-packed crispy skin.
- Rack Placement Matters: Position your oven rack in the center to guarantee even cooking and consistent heat distribution.
- Fork Piercing is Crucial: Multiple fork punctures prevent potential potato explosions and allow steam to escape during baking.
- Resting Time is Important: Let potatoes rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow internal temperatures to stabilize and ensure perfect texture.
- Get Creative with Toppings: While the recipe is delicious on its own, don't be afraid to experiment with various toppings like chives, cheese, or crispy bacon to personalize your potato.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 278kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
