Can I use other potato types besides russets?

You can, but russets are baking champs for a reason! Their thick skins crisp up beautifully while the starchy insides turn wonderfully fluffy. Red or yellow potatoes just don't get that same texture contrast—they're better for boiling or roasting. Stick with russets for that authentic baked potato experience.

How do I know when my baked potatoes are done?

Give them the fork test! When the skins look golden and crackly, poke one—if the fork slides into the center with no resistance (like butter!), they're ready. If you meet any firm spots, give them 5-10 more minutes. Pro tip: they'll keep cooking slightly after coming out of the oven, so don't overbake!

Can I prep baked potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! Scrub, dry, and prick them the night before—just keep them uncovered in the fridge so the skins dry out more. But here's my golden rule: always bake them fresh. Pre-baked potatoes lose that incredible crispy texture when reheated. Your guests will taste (and hear!) the difference when you serve them fresh from the oven.

Irresistible Crispy Baked Potatoes in 5 Simple Steps

Crispy Baked Potatoes

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Achieve restaurant-style crispy-skinned, fluffy-inside baked potatoes as an easy side or customizable bar for family dinners or football parties.

Author: Sophia Collins
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 65 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

4 large russet potatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, chives, bacon bits

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Scrub potatoes clean and pat dry.
Poke holes in potatoes with a fork.
Rub potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Place potatoes directly on oven rack or a baking sheet.
Bake for 45-60 minutes until crispy outside and tender inside.
Slice open and add your favorite toppings.

Notes

For extra crispiness, bake potatoes directly on the oven rack.
Let potatoes rest for 5 minutes before cutting.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Find more recipe ideas on our Pinterest account.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 potato
Calories: 220
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 590mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 37g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Find it online: https://kitchenuser.net/crispy-baked-potatoes-recipe/