@BobbyHartCooking

There’s something undeniably comforting about a baked potato. With its fluffy interior and crispy skin, it’s the perfect blank canvas for a multitude of toppings. Today, I’m excited to share with you how to create the perfect baked potato, which can easily become a hearty side dish or a satisfying meal on its own. Let’s dive right in!

Ingredients

• 2 russet potatoes
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mild cheddar cheese
• 1 Tbsp fresh chopped chives (or 1 tsp freeze-dried chives)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial because it ensures your ovens are at the right temperature for optimal cooking right from the start.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

Next, you’ll want to thoroughly cleanse your russet potatoes. Scrub them under cold water, ensuring that you remove any dirt or impurities. The skins are where much of the flavor lies, so don’t skip this step!

Step 3: Puncture and Season

Once your potatoes are clean, take a fork and puncture them evenly across the surface. This simple act prevents them from exploding due to steam buildup during baking. Afterward, coat the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle them lightly with salt. This not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to that deliciously crispy exterior.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

To achieve an evenly baked potato, arrange the coated potatoes on a wire cooling rack set atop a baking sheet. This method allows for even hot air circulation around the potatoes, which is essential for achieving that perfect texture. Place them in the oven and bake for 45 to 60 minutes. The potatoes are ready when a fork can easily penetrate the flesh—soft and ready for toppings!

Step 5: Stuff and Top

Once out of the oven, carefully cut your potatoes in half, but not all the way through—this will hold all those delicious toppings inside! For a classic twist, top your baked potatoes with a dollop of tangy sour cream, a generous sprinkle of mild cheddar cheese, and a handful of fresh or freeze-dried chives. These toppings not only add flavor but also a fresh and creamy element that complements the warm potatoes beautifully.

Step 6: Dig In!

And just like that, your perfect baked potatoes are ready to be devoured! The combination of fluffy potato, melty cheese, creamy sour cream, and vibrant chives is a symphony in every bite. Whether enjoyed as a side or as a meal, these baked potatoes are sure to impress!

Final Thoughts

Baked potatoes are endlessly versatile, so feel free to experiment with different toppings! However you choose to enjoy them, these baked potatoes are a delightful addition to your table. Don’t forget to share your own creations on social media and tag me—I’d love to see how you customize your baked potatoes! Happy cooking!

Oven Baked Potato

Prep Time: 5 min Cook Time: 45-60 min Total Time: 50-65 min

Servings: 2

Ingredients:

• 2 russet potatoes
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup Sour cream
• 1/2 cup Mild cheddar cheese
• 1 Tbsp Fresh chopped chives or 1sp freeze-dried chives

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Thoroughly cleanse the potatoes by scrubbing them under cold water.
3. Use a fork to puncture the potatoes evenly, which will prevent them from exploding during the cooking process.
4. Coat the potatoes with olive oil and season them with a sprinkle of salt.
5. Arrange the potatoes on a wire cooling rack set atop a baking sheet and place them in the oven. Bake for 45 to 60 minutes, or until a fork can easily penetrate the potatoes. This method ensures even cooking on all sides.
6. Cut your potatoes in half almost all the way through and top with your favorite toppings! For this recipe, I recommend sour cream, mild cheddar cheese, and chives as toppings.
7. Enjoy!