Classic Oven-Baked Potato Recipe

It's never a bad idea to go back to basics from time to time, and these classic oven-baked potatoes are a great example. Whether you are looking for something to pair with steak, chicken, or fish, the always-classic baked potato pairs well with any main course. And, thanks to the starch, it makes for a very filling side. Even though many people will order a baked potato to accompany a pricey main at a steakhouse or upscale restaurant, the baked potato is actually super affordable and easy to make, especially in the comfort of your own home. All you need to do is get a handful of ingredients from the store and set aside a few minutes to prep the potatoes, and the majority of time is spent waiting for them to bake perfectly in the oven.

Recipe developer Catherine Brookes knows how to keep the classics classic, and this recipe is no exception. "Baked potatoes are such a classic staple that can be served with a range of toppings and sides to make a tasty complete meal," Brookes says. She also explains why she loves the baking method the best, saying that "baking the potatoes in the oven produces a much crispier skin and fluffier center than cooking in the microwave."

In terms of grocery shopping; this recipe is on the simple side since it requires just four ingredients. All you will need are large baking potatoes, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Be sure to check at home for items you may have already.

Once you have those items, you can make these classic oven-baked potatoes.

Since you will need to bake the potatoes, go ahead and preheat your oven to 425 F. While you wait for the oven to preheat, you can continue with the rest of the prep work. 

Grab the potatoes and wash and scrub them to thoroughly clean. "I like to place the potatoes in a large colander with the tap running over the top and scrub the potatoes with a course brush," Brookes says. 

Another tip? "Make sure to dry the potatoes thoroughly after washing and before rubbing in the oil or the skins could become soggy when baking," Brookes warns. 

Take out a baking sheet and plop the cleaned potatoes on it. Then, drizzle the olive oil over the top of each potato. Use your hands or a brush to rub the oil all over each potato. The oil helps the potatoes get that nice, crispy skin as it cooks in the oven.

To add just a hint of flavor to the potatoes, sprinkle some salt and pepper to taste over the top. This is based on preference so feel free to add as much or as little as you would like. Then, using a sharp knife, prick the potatoes all over. "Pricking with a knife helps steam to escape from the middle of the potatoes as they cook," Brookes explains. 

As long as the oven has finished preheating, you can pop the baking tray with the potatoes into the oven. Set your timer for 50 minutes to an hour. Once the timer dings, you can take the potatoes out as long as the skin is crispy and you can easily pierce the meaty part of the potato with a knife.

Carefully slice the potatoes open and fill them with a little bit of butter and some extra black pepper if you wish.

Now, you can dig in! If you want to keep these baked potatoes classic, just stick with the butter and pepper. But, Brookes also provides a few additional serving suggestions in case you're looking to spice things up even more. "I like to serve these with toppings such as tuna, sour cream and bacon, chili or cheese," she suggests. 

And, these also make great bonus sides. "Leftovers can be kept in the fridge up to 3 days and reheated in the oven," Brookes says. We know this classic side will make the perfect addition to your main!