Few dishes offer as much comfort and versatility as a good baked potato. With their crispy outside and fluffy interior, baked potatoes make a delicious side dish, or even an entire meal, when topped with the right toppings. A basic potato meal may be made into something delectable for your fussy children, ravenous teenagers, or dinner guests with a little imagination and a few basic ingredients.
Here’s how to bake the perfect potato in the microwave. There are also a number of toppings that will satisfy any craving.
Basics: How To Bake The Perfect Potato
Start with the right kind. Russets are the most commonly used potatoes for baking, due to their high starch content and fluffy texture. Their thicker peel also crisps beautifully in the oven.
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- Olive oil and melted butter
- Sea salt
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425degF.
- Wash the potatoes and scrub them thoroughly. Then, dry them with a cloth.
- For maximum steam escape, poke each potato with a fork a couple of times.
- Rub each potato with olive oil or melted butter, and then sprinkle generously with sea salt.
- Put the potato on a baking dish with a wire rack or straight onto an oven rack.
- Bake for 45-60 minutes, depending on size, until the skins crisp up and the insides are soft.
Let the potatoes cool for a couple of minutes before you start cutting them. Cut the potato lengthwise in half and gently squeeze each end to fluff it up.
It’s the classic baked potato, all ready for your toppings.
You’ll All Enjoy These Top-Rated Ideas
The topping bar can make any baked potatoes recipe more fun. Whether you’re more of a creative or traditional person, these ideas will appeal to all tastes.
1. Classic Loaded Baked Sweet Potatoes: This popular combination will never fail to please.
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Crispy bacon
- Chopped green onion
- Salt and pepper
You can also use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream if you are looking for something lighter.
2. Tex-Mex Style: Give your dishes a little taste and spice with this southwest touch.
- Black beans
- Pepper Jack cheese, shredded
- Sliced jalapenos
- Avocado or guacamole
- Fresh cilantro
If you want to add a little extra zip, squeeze some lime juice in.
3. Broccoli with Cheese: A great combination for adults and children, it provides nutrition and comfort.
- Steamed broccoli florets
- Cheddar or Velveeta cheese sauce
- One pinch of garlic powder
- Optional: Sprinkle red pepper flakes on top for extra heat
4. This BBQ Chicken: Potato turns your baked potatoes into an entire meal.
- Shredded Barbecue Chicken
- Mozzarella or smoked Gouda
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Drizzle BBQ sauce
- Fresh parsley, chives, or cilantro for garnish
It’s flavorful and hearty.
5. Breakfast Potato: A fun brunch idea or dinner option:
- Scrambled egg or a fried soft egg
- Crushed sausage or bacon
- Melted Monterey Jack, cheddar cheese
- Chopped chives
6. Vegetarian Delight: Fresh, healthy & full of color
- Hummus (or mashed chickpeas)
- Roasted cherry tomatoes
- Cucumber slices
- Crumbled feta
- Olive tapenade and chopped olives
- Sprinkle with za’atar, paprika, or both
Tips for serving baked potatoes
Set up a DIY baked potato bar for your gathering. Make a large batch of baked potatoes and serve them with a variety of toppings. It is easy to do, interactive, and suitable for adventurous and picky diners alike.
To keep the potatoes warm until serving, wrap each one in foil. Place them in a very low oven (200degF). If you want crispier skins, then skip the foil. Serve them directly from the hot oven.
Offer vegetarian and dairy-free options to your baked potatoes so that everyone is able to enjoy them.
Final Thoughts
Baked potato recipes are much more than a simple side dish. They’re an opportunity for creative expression. A simple baked potato can be made into an unforgettable meal by adding the right toppings. This humble dish is a great choice for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party, cooking a weeknight supper, or craving comfort food.
Do not underestimate the power and versatility of potatoes when planning your next meal. The possibilities are endless. Just bake them, then top them off.
