15 Perfect Baked Potatoes in the Oven

Craving a comforting side dish that’s both simple and satisfying? Look no further than the humble baked potato.

This classic staple transforms a plain spud into a fluffy, golden delight with just a few easy steps. We’ll walk you through the secrets to achieving that perfect crispy skin and pillowy interior that’ll have your taste buds dancing.

Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this foolproof method for creating mouthwatering baked potatoes in the oven.

Grab your favorite toppings, because you’re about to become a potato-baking pro!

1. Classic Baked Potato

The Classic Baked Potato is simplicity at its finest, delivering a crispy skin and a fluffy, tender inside. It’s a versatile side dish that can be topped with anything from butter and sour cream to chives and shredded cheese. Perfect for any meal, this classic dish never goes out of style.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes
• Olive oil
• Sea salt
• Butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and pat them dry.
3. Prick each potato a few times with a fork, then rub with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt.
4. Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for about 1 hour, or until the skins are crispy and the insides are tender.
5. Serve hot with a pat of butter.

Serve with: Grilled chicken or steak.
Drink with: A cold beer or a glass of iced tea.

2. Twice-Baked Potatoes

Twice-Baked Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, taking the humble baked potato and elevating it with creamy, cheesy goodness. These potatoes are baked, scooped, mixed with delightful fillings, and baked again until golden and bubbly. Perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a hearty side dish.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chives for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes and bake them for 1 hour until tender.
3. Cut each potato in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides into a mixing bowl.
4. Mix the potato insides with sour cream, cheddar cheese, milk, butter, salt, and pepper until smooth.
5. Spoon the mixture back into the potato skins and place them on a baking sheet.
6. Bake for an additional 15 minutes, until the tops are golden and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chives and serve hot.

Serve with: Grilled vegetables or a fresh salad.
Drink with: Chardonnay or sparkling water.

3. Garlic Parmesan Baked Potatoes

Garlic Parmesan Baked Potatoes are a flavor-packed side dish that combines the savory taste of garlic with the rich, nutty flavor of Parmesan cheese. These potatoes are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a perfect accompaniment to any main course.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes and cut them into wedges.
3. In a bowl, toss the potato wedges with olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Arrange the potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 1 hour, turning halfway through, until the potatoes are golden and crispy.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serve with: Roast chicken or grilled fish.
Drink with: Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager.

4. Loaded Baked Potato

Loaded Baked Potatoes are a meal in themselves, piled high with all your favorite toppings. Think crispy bacon, melted cheese, sour cream, and chives. These potatoes are hearty, satisfying, and perfect for a casual dinner or a fun gathering with friends.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup chopped chives
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Butter for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes and prick them a few times with a fork.
3. Bake the potatoes for about 1 hour, or until tender.
4. Slice the potatoes open and fluff the insides with a fork.
5. Top each potato with butter, cheese, sour cream, bacon, and chives.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot.

Serve with: A side salad or steamed broccoli.
Drink with: A robust red wine or a hearty stout.

5. Herb-Roasted Baked Potatoes

Herb-Roasted Baked Potatoes are an elegant and aromatic side dish, featuring a blend of fresh herbs that infuse the potatoes with a delightful flavor. These potatoes are roasted to perfection, making them crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes and cut them into chunks.
3. In a bowl, toss the potato chunks with olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread the potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for about 1 hour, turning halfway through, until the potatoes are golden and crispy.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serve with: Roast chicken or grilled steak.
Drink with: A crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

6. Crispy Skin Baked Potatoes

Crispy Skin Baked Potatoes are all about that delightful crunch on the outside, paired with a soft and fluffy interior. Perfect for those who love texture contrasts in their food, these potatoes are a simple yet satisfying side dish.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes
• Olive oil
• Sea salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and pat them dry.
3. Prick each potato a few times with a fork, then rub with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt.
4. Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for about 1 hour, or until the skins are crispy and the insides are tender.
5. Serve hot.

Serve with: Grilled chicken or a green salad.
Drink with: A light beer or a chilled white wine.

7. Bacon Cheddar Baked Potatoes

Bacon Cheddar Baked Potatoes are a flavor explosion, combining the smoky, savory taste of bacon with the creamy, melty goodness of cheddar cheese. These potatoes are perfect for a filling and delicious meal that feels indulgent and satisfying.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes and prick them a few times with a fork.
3. Bake the potatoes for about 1 hour, or until tender.
4. Slice the potatoes open and fluff the insides with a fork.
5. Top each potato with cheddar cheese, bacon, sour cream, and green onions.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot.

Serve with: A side salad or steamed vegetables.
Drink with: A hearty ale or a glass of iced tea.

8. Sour Cream and Chive Baked Potatoes

Sour Cream and Chive Baked Potatoes are a classic combination that never disappoints. The tangy sour cream and the fresh, mild flavor of chives perfectly complement the fluffy potato, making it a delightful side dish for any occasion.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup chopped chives
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes and prick them a few times with a fork.
3. Bake the potatoes for about 1 hour, or until tender.
4. Slice the potatoes open and fluff the insides with a fork.
5. Top each potato with a dollop of sour cream and a generous sprinkle of chives.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot.

Serve with: Grilled chicken or a fresh garden salad.
Drink with: A light white wine or sparkling water.

9. Mediterranean Baked Potatoes

Mediterranean Baked Potatoes are a vibrant and flavorful dish, featuring ingredients like olives, feta cheese, and fresh herbs. These potatoes bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table, making them a perfect side for grilled meats or a light vegetarian meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup sliced olives
• 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes and prick them a few times with a fork.
3. Bake the potatoes for about 1 hour, or until tender.
4. Slice the potatoes open and fluff the insides with a fork.
5. Top each potato with feta cheese, olives, tomatoes, olive oil, and oregano.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot.

Serve with: Grilled lamb or a Greek salad.
Drink with: A crisp white wine or sparkling water.

10. Ranch Baked Potatoes

Ranch Baked Potatoes are a delicious twist on the classic baked potato, featuring the creamy and tangy flavor of ranch dressing. These potatoes are perfect for those who love a bit of zest and richness in their side dishes.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 1 cup ranch dressing
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes and prick them a few times with a fork.
3. Bake the potatoes for about 1 hour, or until tender.
4. Slice the potatoes open and fluff the insides with a fork.
5. Top each potato with ranch dressing and a sprinkle of green onions.
6. Serve hot.

Serve with: Grilled chicken or a fresh garden salad.
Drink with: A cold beer or lemonade.

11. Cheesy Broccoli Baked Potatoes

Cheesy Broccoli Baked Potatoes are a delightful combination of tender baked potatoes, creamy cheese sauce, and fresh broccoli. This dish is both comforting and nutritious, making it a perfect side or even a main course.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 1 cup steamed broccoli florets
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes and prick them a few times with a fork.
3. Bake the potatoes for about 1 hour, or until tender.
4. In a saucepan, melt the butter and add the milk and cheddar cheese, stirring until smooth.
5. Slice the potatoes open and fluff the insides with a fork.
6. Top each potato with steamed broccoli and cheese sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot.

Serve with: A side salad or grilled chicken.
Drink with: Chardonnay or a light beer.

12. Chili-Stuffed Baked Potatoes

Chili-Stuffed Baked Potatoes are a hearty and satisfying dish that combines the warmth of chili with the comfort of a baked potato. Perfect for a cold night or a casual dinner, these potatoes are filling and delicious.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 2 cups prepared chili
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes and prick them a few times with a fork.
3. Bake the potatoes for about 1 hour, or until tender.
4. Slice the potatoes open and fluff the insides with a fork.
5. Spoon the prepared chili over each potato.
6. Top with cheddar cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions.
7. Serve hot.

Serve with: A simple green salad.
Drink with: A robust red wine or a cold beer.

13. Buffalo Chicken Baked Potatoes

Buffalo Chicken Baked Potatoes are a spicy and flavorful dish that combines the kick of buffalo chicken with the comfort of a baked potato. Perfect for game day or a fun dinner, these potatoes are sure to be a hit.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
• 1/2 cup blue cheese dressing
• 1/4 cup chopped celery
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes and prick them a few times with a fork.
3. Bake the potatoes for about 1 hour, or until tender.
4. In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce.
5. Slice the potatoes open and fluff the insides with a fork.
6. Top each potato with buffalo chicken, blue cheese dressing, and chopped celery.
7. Serve hot.

Serve with: A side of carrot sticks and celery.
Drink with: A cold beer or a sparkling water.

14. Baked Sweet Potatoes

Baked Sweet Potatoes are a nutritious and delicious alternative to regular baked potatoes. Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with a variety of toppings, from savory to sweet, making them a versatile side dish or even a main course.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 large sweet potatoes
• Olive oil
• Sea salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Scrub the sweet potatoes clean and pat them dry.
3. Prick each sweet potato a few times with a fork, then rub with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt.
4. Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for about 1 hour, or until tender.
5. Serve hot.

Serve with: Grilled chicken or pork chops.
Drink with: A glass of Riesling or iced tea.

15. BBQ Pulled Pork Baked Potatoes

BBQ Pulled Pork Baked Potatoes are a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the smokiness of BBQ pulled pork with the comfort of a baked potato. These potatoes are perfect for a satisfying meal that’s easy to make and full of flavor.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 2 cups BBQ pulled pork
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes and prick them a few times with a fork.
3. Bake the potatoes for about 1 hour, or until tender.
4. Slice the potatoes open and fluff the insides with a fork.
5. Top each potato with BBQ pulled pork and shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Sprinkle with chopped green onions and serve hot.

Serve with: Coleslaw or a fresh green salad.
Drink with: A cold beer or sweet tea.

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