There’s something incredibly comforting about a perfectly cooked potato. The crispy skin, the soft, fluffy interior – it’s the ideal combination of textures. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish or enjoying them as a meal on their own, a well-made oven-baked potato is a crowd-pleaser. If you’re looking to achieve that soft, fluffy inside with a crispy skin, the following easy steps will guide you to potato perfection every time. To achieve the perfect texture, follow these easy steps for making baked potatoes in the oven, ensuring a crispy skin and a fluffy interior every time.

1. Pick Out The Right Potato

In terms of baking, potatoes are not all made equal. For the perfect fluffy texture, it’s important to choose the right type. This makes them light and fluffy inside while still providing a deliciously crispy skin. Steer clear of waxy potatoes, like new or red potatoes, as they are typically denser and don’t produce the same fluffy texture. 

2. Prick The Potatoes

After washing and drying the potatoes, use a fork to prick each one several times. This is an important step because it lets the steam out while the potato bakes. If the steam doesn’t have an outlet, the potato could burst, leaving you with a messy situation in your oven. Pricking the potato also ensures that the inside remains soft and tender during the cooking process.

3. Coat The Potatoes With Oil

To achieve that desirable crispy skin, coat your potatoes with a thin layer of oil. Although olive oil is a common option, any neutral oil will do. Rub the oil over the entire surface of the potato, making sure to cover every inch. This will assist in the skin’s attractive crisping in the oven. You can also sprinkle the potatoes with salt at this stage for extra flavor.

4. Bake At The Right Temperature

A high temperature is key to getting that crispy skin while allowing the inside to become tender and fluffy. Put the potatoes on a baking sheet or directly on the oven rack to catch any drips. Depending on their size, the potatoes should be baked for 45 to 60 minutes. A medium-sized russet potato typically takes around 50 minutes to cook through.

Put a fork or skewer into the thickest part of the potato to see if it’s done. If it slides in easily with no resistance, your potatoes are ready. If there is any resistance, bake them a bit longer until the texture is soft inside.

5. Let The Potatoes Rest

Once your potatoes are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the steam to redistribute inside the potato, keeping it fluffy. Cutting into the potato too soon can cause it to lose moisture, which may affect the texture.

6. Serve And Enjoy

Now comes the fun part – serving your fluffy potatoes! Slice the top of the potato open with a sharp knife, then fluff the inside with a fork to separate the soft, light flesh. At this point, you can top them with your favorite ingredients, whether it’s butter, sour cream, cheese, chives, or bacon bits. The options are endless, so get creative and enjoy!

If you’re looking to make a meal out of your oven-baked potatoes, consider adding a protein like grilled chicken or a hearty salad. They also make a great side dish to pair with steak, roasted vegetables, or almost any main course.

Conclusion

Achieving fluffy potatoes with crispy skin is simple when you follow these easy steps. Choosing the right potato, seasoning it properly, and baking it at the right temperature will result in a delicious dish every time. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or preparing a feast for guests, these fluffy potatoes will always be a hit. Mastering the art of making baked potatoes in the oven will elevate your meals, providing a deliciously crispy and fluffy side dish that’s sure to impress.