Sometimes the simplest recipes deliver the most satisfying results—and these Crispy Baked Potatoes are no exception.
With a golden, salty crust and a fluffy, tender center, they’re the ultimate side dish.
All you need is one potato, a touch of oil, and a sprinkle of salt.
Top them however you like and enjoy potato perfection with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy skin + fluffy center – The best texture combination in one potato.
Only 3 ingredients – No fuss, pantry-friendly, and budget-friendly.
Endlessly customizable – Use whatever toppings you love.
Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian – A great side for any table.
Hands-off cooking – Just prep and let the oven do the work.
Scalable – Make one or a dozen with ease.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Russet potato – The best choice for baked potatoes.
Their starchy flesh becomes fluffy, and their skin crisps up beautifully.
Olive oil – Helps the skin become golden and crisp while locking in moisture.
Kosher salt – Adds that irresistible salty crunch on the outside.
Toppings – From butter and sour cream to cheese and bacon, the options are endless.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Scrub the potato well – Dirt can cling to the skin, and you’ll want to eat it!
Dry completely – A dry skin helps it crisp up in the oven.
Prick the potato – This allows steam to escape and prevents bursting.
Use kosher salt – The coarse texture adds more crunch and flavor.
Check doneness with a knife – It should slide in with no resistance.
How to Make Crispy Baked Potatoes
Step 1: Prep the Potato
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Scrub the potato under cold running water, then dry thoroughly with a paper towel.
Use a fork to pierce the skin in several places.
Step 2: Season
Place the potato on a baking sheet.
Brush the surface all over with olive oil, then sprinkle generously with kosher salt.
Step 3: Bake
Bake the potato for about 1 hour, or until a knife or toothpick slides in easily.
If it’s on the smaller side, check for doneness around the 45-minute mark.
For larger potatoes, bake longer, checking every 10 minutes as needed.
Step 4: Fluff and Top
Remove from the oven and slice open the top.
Gently pinch the sides inward to open it up.
Fluff the inside with a fork and add your favorite toppings.
What to Serve It With
Grilled steak or chicken – A hearty side for any protein.
Chili or stew – Spoon it right into the potato for a full meal.
Baked beans and BBQ – A classic pairing with smoky flavors.
Crispy tofu or sautéed mushrooms – Great vegetarian toppings.
A big salad – Serve alongside for a balanced plate.
Variations / Substitutions
Use butter or avocado oil – Instead of olive oil.
Add spices – Garlic powder, pepper, or paprika on the skin before baking.
Cheesy upgrade – Add shredded cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Stuff it – With pulled pork, black beans, or broccoli and cheese.
Mini version – Use baby potatoes for snack-size bites.
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge – Store uncut leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat – Bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes or microwave until hot.
Freeze? – Not recommended, as the texture gets mealy.
Repurpose – Turn leftovers into potato skins, mashed potatoes, or hash.
Make ahead – Bake in advance and reheat with toppings before serving.
FAQs
What’s the best type of potato for baking?
Russet potatoes are ideal thanks to their starchy flesh and thick skins.
Can I use foil when baking?
Avoid it if you want crisp skin—foil traps steam and softens the crust.
Should I poke holes in the potato?
Yes! This helps steam escape and prevents the potato from bursting.
Can I bake more than one potato at a time?
Absolutely. Just make sure they’re spaced out for even air flow.
How do I know it’s done?
A knife or toothpick should slide in easily. The skin will feel firm, and the center fluffy.
Can I prep it ahead?
Yes. Bake and refrigerate, then reheat in the oven before serving.
What toppings go best?
Butter, sour cream, cheese, green onions, bacon, or even chili—anything goes!
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a perfectly baked potato—crisp on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and ready for all your favorite toppings.
This simple method gives you foolproof results every time.
Whether you’re feeding one or a crowd, these crispy baked potatoes are a classic that never fails.
Crispy Baked Potatoes
Ingredients
- 1 russet potato
- ½ tablespoon olive oil
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
- Your favorite toppings
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Scrub and dry the potato. Prick it all over with a fork.
- Place on a baking sheet.
- Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
- Bake for 1 hour or until tender.
- For smaller potatoes, check at 45 minutes.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://wimpysdiner.net/crispy-baked-potatoes/
Notes
- For extra-crispy skin, bake directly on the oven rack without foil.
- Want a loaded version? Try cheddar, bacon, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream.
- This method also works great for meal prep—bake a batch and store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture.
