If you have a soft spot for comfort food that is both simple and soul-satisfying, this Baked Potato Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. It’s a timeless classic that transforms humble potatoes into fluffy, buttery delights with a gentle hint of garlic and just the right seasoning. Perfectly baked and wrapped in foil to lock in moisture, each potato blossoms into a fluffy interior encased by a wonderfully tender skin. Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner or feeding a hungry crowd, this Baked Potato Recipe delivers a delicious, customizable base that shines every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting these few but essential ingredients right makes all the difference. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture—from the rich butter that melts into every crevice to the aromatic garlic powder that gives it a delicate kick.
- Butter, 4 tablespoons: Adds richness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture that defines the classic baked potato experience.
- Olive oil, 2 teaspoons: Helps create a tasty, golden exterior and blends beautifully with the butter for silky flavor.
- Garlic powder, 1 ½ teaspoons: Infuses subtle savory depth without overpowering the natural potato taste.
- Salt and ground black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance and balance every bite.
- Medium potatoes, 6 (scrubbed): The star of the show; choose firm potatoes with smooth skins for the best bake.
You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.
How to Make Baked Potato Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is just right for gently baking the potatoes so they cook evenly inside while the skins get tender. A well-preheated oven ensures your Baked Potato Recipe will come out perfect every time.
Step 2: Prepare the Flavorful Butter Mixture
While the oven is warming up, melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl until it’s beautifully liquid. Then stir in the olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and ground black pepper to create an irresistible buttery blend that will soak into the potatoes, giving them their signature richness and aroma.
Step 3: Prep and Season the Potatoes
Using a fork, poke several holes into each potato to allow steam to escape during baking. This little step prevents bursting and ensures even cooking. Then generously coat each potato with the buttery mixture, making sure every nook and cranny is covered for maximum flavor.
Step 4: Wrap and Bake the Potatoes
Wrap each coated potato snugly in aluminum foil to trap moisture while they bake. Pop them onto a baking sheet, slide into your preheated oven, and let them bake for about one hour. You’ll know they’re done when a skewer slides in easily and the potatoes feel tender to touch.
Step 5: Final Butter Spread Before Serving
Once baked, unwrap the potatoes and spread any remaining butter mixture over them while they’re still hot. This last touch adds a glossy, flavorful finish that makes each bite irresistibly creamy and delicious.
How to Serve Baked Potato Recipe
Garnishes
This Baked Potato Recipe is a perfect canvas for your favorite garnishes. Think shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, sour cream, fresh chives, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika. Each topping personalizes your potato, turning it into a creative and indulgent dish everyone will love.
Side Dishes
Pair these baked potatoes with fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or grilled meats for a balanced, hearty meal. They complement dishes like steak, barbecue chicken, or a vibrant green veggie side beautifully, making your dinner both satisfying and well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your baked potatoes loaded in a potato bar setup, allowing guests to customize their toppings. You can also slice them open and stuff with sautéed mushrooms, broccoli, or even chili for a colorful, flavor-packed meal that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover baked potatoes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Leaving them unwrapped prevents sogginess, and chilling them quickly after use keeps them fresh and safe to eat later.
Freezing
Baked potatoes don’t freeze exceptionally well when whole due to potential texture changes, but if you want to freeze them, scoop out the fluffy insides, mix with your favorite toppings or butter, then freeze the mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Reheating
To reheat, unwrap the potatoes and place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as ovens help retain the crispy skin and fluffy interior that make this Baked Potato Recipe so satisfying.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato for this Baked Potato Recipe?
You can, but russet or baking potatoes are preferred because of their fluffy texture when cooked. Waxy potatoes like red or fingerlings hold shape more and yield a different texture that might not be as fluffy.
Is it necessary to wrap the potatoes in foil?
Wrapping in foil helps steam the potatoes, resulting in softer skins and tender interiors. If you prefer crispy skins, bake the potatoes unwrapped on a rack, but expect a slightly different texture.
Can I prep the potatoes in advance?
Absolutely! You can coat and wrap the potatoes in foil a few hours before baking. Just keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to pop them in the oven to preserve freshness.
How do I know when my baked potatoes are done?
They’re done when a knife or skewer pierces through easily with no resistance. The potatoes should feel soft and tender inside without any hard spots.
What are some healthy toppings to add?
Try topping with Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, steamed broccoli, salsa, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill to keep things light but flavorful.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Potato Recipe is a simple yet incredibly satisfying dish that celebrates the beauty of basic ingredients turned extraordinary. Whether you keep it classic or get adventurous with toppings, these baked potatoes promise comfort with every bite. Give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it in your recipe rotation!
PrintBaked Potato Recipe
This classic baked potato recipe yields perfectly tender and flavorful potatoes with a garlic butter coating. Ideal as a side dish or a comforting snack, these baked potatoes are wrapped in foil and baked until soft, then finished with a rich garlic butter spread for enhanced taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Potatoes and Seasonings
- 6 medium potatoes (scrubbed)
- 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
Butter Mixture
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the potatoes evenly.
- Prepare Butter Mixture: Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir in the olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and ground black pepper to create a flavorful butter mixture.
- Coat Potatoes: Using a fork, poke holes all around each potato. This allows steam to escape and prevents bursting. Coat each potato evenly with the prepared butter mixture.
- Wrap Potatoes: Wrap each coated potato individually in aluminum foil. This helps retain moisture while baking.
- Bake: Place the foil-wrapped potatoes in the oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Finish and Serve: Carefully unwrap the potatoes and spread any remaining butter mixture over the hot potatoes for extra flavor before serving.
Notes
- Scrubbing the potatoes thoroughly removes dirt and any residues from the skin.
- Poking holes in the potatoes is essential to prevent them from bursting in the oven.
- Wrapping in foil helps keep the potatoes moist while baking, but for crispier skin, bake uncovered.
- You can customize the butter mixture by adding herbs like rosemary or thyme for added aroma.
- Allow the baked potatoes to cool slightly before handling to avoid burns.
