To bake potatoes, the general recommended time is between 45 to 70 minutes depending on the oven temperature and potato size:
- Preheat the oven to around 400°F to 450°F.
- Scrub the potatoes clean, optionally prick them with a fork a few times to prevent steam buildup.
- Rub the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt for crispy skin.
- Place the potatoes on a baking sheet (lined with parchment or foil) or directly on the oven rack.
- Bake for about 45 to 60 minutes at 425°F to 450°F until the skin is crisp and a fork easily pierces the potato. Larger potatoes may take up to 70 minutes at 400°F.
- You can test doneness by squeezing the potato with an oven mitt or piercing with a fork or knife; it should feel soft inside
Wrapping potatoes in foil is not recommended if you want crispy skin, as foil traps moisture and steams the potato instead
. In summary:
- Bake at 425°F for 45-60 minutes for medium to large russet potatoes.
- Check for tenderness by piercing or squeezing.
- Adjust time slightly for potato size and oven variations.
This method yields fluffy interiors and crispy skins, the classic baked potato texture
