Classic Baked Potato

Perfect choice, Meerab! 🥔 A classic baked potato is fluffy inside, with a crispy golden skin — simple yet so satisfying. Here’s the recipe in detail:

🥔 Classic Baked Potato

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes (best for baking, since they’re starchy & fluffy)

• 2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)

• 1 tsp coarse salt (kosher or sea salt works best)

• ½ tsp black pepper

Optional toppings (choose your favorites):

• Butter (classic must-have!)

• Sour cream

• Shredded cheddar cheese

• Cooked, crispy bacon bits

• Chives or green onions

• Steamed broccoli

• Chili, pulled chicken, or beef for a hearty version

Instructions:

1. Prep the potatoes:

1. Wash and scrub the potatoes well (since we’ll eat the skin).

2. Pat completely dry with a towel.

3. Prick each potato several times with a fork (this prevents bursting in the oven).

4. Rub all over with olive oil or melted butter.

5. Sprinkle generously with salt and a little pepper.

2. Bake:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Place potatoes directly on the oven rack (for even crisp skin). You can place a baking sheet on the lower rack to catch any drips.

3. Bake for 50–60 minutes until the skin is crisp and the inside is soft when pierced with a knife.

3. Serve:

1. Remove from oven and let cool 5 minutes.

2. Cut a slit down the center, gently squeeze ends to “fluff” the inside.

3. Add butter first (so it melts into the potato), then pile on your favorite toppings.

✨ Variations:

• Loaded Baked Potato: Butter + sour cream + cheddar + bacon + chives.

• Broccoli Cheddar Baked Potato: Steamed broccoli + melty cheddar cheese sauce.

• Chili Baked Potato: Spoon hot chili (beef or bean) on top for a full meal.

• Garlic Herb Style: Mix butter with minced garlic & parsley before adding inside.