Preheat your oven to 425 ̊F. This initial step is crucial for achieving that crispy skin. If you have a wire rack, set it over a baking sheet to promote even cooking all around the potato. The heat circulation will ensure a perfectly baked potato.
Scrub the potatoes clean under running water. Take your time with this step; you want to remove any dirt or debris. After scrubbing, dry them thoroughly with a towel to ensure the skin crisps up nicely.
Poke holes in each potato all over, about five to six times with a fork. This allows steam to escape during baking, preventing that dreaded potato explosion in your oven!
Rub the potato skins with a little olive oil and sprinkle generously all over with kosher salt. This step is vital for flavor and achieving a crispy texture. Make sure to coat them evenly for the best results.
Set the potatoes on a rack or a baking sheet, keeping them at least an inch apart. This spacing allows the heat to circulate around each potato, ensuring even cooking.
Bake for 45 to 60 minutes, depending on the size of your potatoes. They should be easily pierced with a fork when done and reach around 210 ̊F in the center. If you have an instant-read thermometer, this is a great time to use it!
To serve, take a knife and cut a slit down the center of each potato (don’t cut all the way through). Gently push in the sides to open up the potato and fluff the center. This step makes it easy to add toppings.
Add a tablespoon of butter to melt into the center of the hot potato. Season the potato flesh with salt and pepper, then add your desired toppings. Enjoy your delicious creation!
