Perfect Baked Potato Recipe

Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking crisp-skinned potatoes.

Scrub each potato thoroughly under running water to remove dirt, then dry them well with a towel.

Use a fork to poke each potato 5 to 6 times all over. This allows steam to escape during baking, preventing the potatoes from bursting.

Rub each potato evenly with olive oil, then sprinkle kosher salt all around to enhance the flavor and texture of the skin.

Put the potatoes directly on the oven rack or place them on a baking sheet lined with a wire rack to allow heat circulation.

Bake for 45 to 60 minutes depending on their size, until the skins are crisp and a knife slides easily into the center.

Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes, allowing the insides to fluff up.

Slice open the top of each potato, gently squeeze the ends to fluff the inside, and add your favorite toppings such as butter, sour cream, cheese, chives, bacon, and black pepper.