Learn how to make the perfect baked potato using this step-by-step tutorial and recipe. So easy and delicious!
Recipe by Ali on December 18, 2019
Prep time: PT2M
Cook time: PT50M
Total time: PT52M
Rating
4.8 stars ( reviews)
Ingredients
1 medium-to-large Russet potato, scrubbed clean of any dirt
1-2 teaspoons melted butter (or olive oil)
pinch of coarse Kosher salt
pinch of freshly-cracked black pepper
Steps
Heat oven to 450°F. Line a large baking sheet with foil (or parchment*), and if you happen to own a wire cooling rack, place it on top of the baking sheet.
Using a dinner fork or a small paring knife, poke the potato at least 10 times on all sides. Place the potato on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 25 minutes. Remove baking sheet from the oven.
Using a pastry brush, brush the outside of the potato with melted butter or olive oil until it is completely coated on all sides. Sprinkle the potato with a generous pinch of Kosher salt, and place the potato back on the baking sheet reverse-side-up, so that it can cook evenly on both sides.
Bake for an additional 20 minutes. Using an oven mitt, carefully squeeze the potato to check for doneness. If the insides are soft and give under pressure, remove the potato from the oven. Otherwise, continue cooking in 5-minute increments until the potato is soft.
Using a small paring knife, slice halfway through the potato lengthwise. Then give it a gentle squeeze to open.
Serve immediately, with your desired toppings.
Reviews
Samantha S. on 2025-10-27 (5 stars): This is the best recipe for baking a russet potato! I've used this recipe well over 20 times, and it is the easiest and cheapest meal I love to make. I would totally recommend this recipe! Thank you to Ali for sharing!
Denise on 2025-11-10 (5 stars): Best baked potatoes ever made. Several guests asked how I made them with such a delicious and crispy skin. Highly recommend going the butter route.
Ashley Schultz on 2026-02-23 (5 stars): I make these all the time. So good! Thank you for a great recipe!
