– **Title**: Oven Baked Potatoes
– **Ingredients**:
– 4 medium russet potatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
– 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
– Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme) for garnish (optional)
– **Instructions**:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wash the potatoes thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a towel.
3. Prick each potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape while baking.
4. Rub each potato with olive oil, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
5. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika over the potatoes, making sure they’re well-seasoned.
6. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and a fork can easily pierce through the flesh.
8. Once done, remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
9. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs before serving. Slice open and add your favorite toppings like sour cream, cheese, or chives. Enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: Russet potatoes are perfect for baking due to their starchy texture that turns fluffy inside. If you can’t find russets, try Yukon Golds. They won’t be as fluffy but will have a buttery flavor.
Olive Oil: I love using olive oil for its rich flavor, but other oils, like vegetable or canola oil, can also work. If you’re looking for a healthier choice, avocado oil has a high smoke point and adds a nice taste.
Bacon: Cooked bacon adds a meaty crunch. If you prefer a vegetarian option, consider using crispy fried mushrooms or smoked tempeh to give it a similar umami taste.
Green Onions: I use green onions for a fresh touch. If you don’t have them, chopped chives or regular onions can work too, just adjust the amount since regular onions can be stronger in flavor.
How Do I Achieve Crispy Potato Skins?
Getting crispy skins is one of the highlights of this recipe! Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure to scrub the potatoes well to remove dirt; dirt can make the skin tough.
- Don’t skip piercing the potatoes with a fork. This allows steam to escape and helps to prevent them from bursting in the oven.
- Coat the skin evenly with olive oil, which not only adds flavor but also promotes crispiness.
- Set your oven temperature to 425°F (220°C). Baking them at a higher temperature helps achieve that golden, crispy texture.
- Avoid wrapping them in foil. This traps moisture and will result in steamy, soft skins rather than crispy ones!
How to Make Oven Baked Potatoes with Bacon and Butter
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt (to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
For The Toppings:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and then 45-60 minutes to bake in the oven. So in total, you should plan for about 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes to have delicious, crispy baked potatoes ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when your potatoes go in, giving them that perfect crispy skin.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
While the oven is heating, scrub each russet potato under cold water to clean off any dirt. Pat them dry with a towel once they’re clean.
3. Prepare Potatoes for Baking:
Using a fork, pierce each potato several times. This is an important step as it allows steam to escape while they bake, helping them cook evenly.
4. Season the Potatoes:
Rub each potato with olive oil to help the skin crisp up. Then, season generously with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it adds a lot of flavor!
5. Bake the Potatoes:
Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet. Bake them for about 45-60 minutes, or until you see crispy skin and a fork easily pierces the flesh. You want them tender inside!
6. Let Them Cool:
Once they’re baked, carefully remove the potatoes from the oven (they’ll be hot!). Let them cool for a few minutes to make it easier to handle.
7. Open Up the Potatoes:
Now it’s time for the fun part! Cut a slit in the top of each potato. Gently squeeze the ends to open them up, revealing the fluffy inside.
8. Add Butter and Toppings:
Place a tablespoon of butter into each opened potato. Then, generously top with chopped bacon and sprinkle with fresh green onions if you like.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Your deliciously baked potatoes are now ready to serve! Enjoy them hot as a side dish or as a satisfying meal on their own!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
Yes! While russet potatoes are ideal for their fluffy texture, you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just note that cooking times may vary—check for doneness with a fork and adjust accordingly.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
If you want a vegetarian version, you can omit the bacon and replace it with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even some cheese for flavor. You can also use a plant-based butter alternative to keep it dairy-free!
Can I Make These Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can bake the potatoes ahead of time! Simply store them in the fridge after they’ve cooled. When you’re ready to serve, reheat them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes to bring back their crispiness.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Baked Potatoes?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven for a bit of crispiness or microwave them if you’re short on time, just be aware that the skins won’t be as crisp.
