Bake Potatoes in Oven

Baked potatoes are one of the most comforting — and simplest — foods to prepare. Additionally, potatoes are inexpensive, store well in the pantry, and can absorb almost any flavour you throw at them. They're delicious when paired with a juicy steak or chicken and make an excellent stand-alone meal when topped with bacon, cheese, and sour cream.

The best part is that the perfect simple baked potato requires only two ingredients: potatoes and oil. Oh, and butter—always finish with a generous pat of butter! However, if you're unsure how to make a baked potato in the oven, we've got you covered.

Any potato can be baked whole, but russets produce the best results. They contain a high amount of starch and low moisture, making them ideal for baking. In addition, the skin becomes crisp and sturdy, protecting the soft potato flesh within.

Once you've mastered the technique, experiment with some of our favourite baked potato recipes, including BLT Baked Potatoes, Twice Baked Potatoes, Slice-Baked Potatoes, and these spicy Buffalo Chicken Baked Potatoes.

Which potato variety is best for baking?

While you can bake any potato, the best potatoes for baking are those with low moisture content, such as russet or an Idaho potato. Waxier potatoes, such as Yukon golds or red-skinned potatoes will not bake to a fluffy centre.

At what temperature should potatoes be baked?

We recommend baking potatoes at 400 degrees for the best texture and the crispiest skin.

Is it necessary to wrap baked potatoes in foil?

No! They are wrapping potatoes in foil traps moisture, which causes the potatoes to steam—wrapping them in foil results in soggy potatoes rather than crispy ones. By spacing them apart on a baking sheet (or directly on the oven rack), air circulates them, resulting in more even cooking.

How long a potato should be baked?

50 min to 1 hour at 400 degrees should suffice, depending on the size, resulting in perfectly smooth flesh with crispy skin.

Why bake potatoes rather than microwave them?

While the microwave method is faster, the oven method cooks the potatoes more evenly and results in a crispy exterior with a soft interior.

How should potatoes be stored before and after baking?

Raw potatoes should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. They'll keep for about two weeks if stored properly. Learn how to store potatoes properly. Leftover baked potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container—they won't be quite as crisp on the outside, but they'll still be delicious!

Yield: 4 successful servings

Time required for preparation: 0 hours 5 minutes
Cooking time: one hour zero minutes
Time total: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Four baking potatoes
One and a half tbsp. canola oil

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Clean and dry the potatoes then prick them all over with a fork.

2. Arrange the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Rub them all over with canola oil and bake for about 1 hour, or until they are thoroughly cooked and tender in the centre.


How to bake potatoes in the oven