🥔 Quick Baked Potato Recipe
⏱️ Ready in: 10–15 minutes
🍽️ Serves: 1–4 potatoes (depending on microwave/oven size)
Ingredients
- 1 large russet potato (or more if cooking multiple)
- 1–2 tsp olive oil (or butter)
- Salt, to taste
- Optional toppings: butter, sour cream, cheese, green onions, bacon bits, black pepper, etc.
Instructions
🔹 Step 1: Prep the Potato
- Scrub the potato clean under running water.
- Pat it dry completely with a towel.
- Using a fork, poke holes all around the potato (6–8 times) — this lets steam escape.
🔹 Step 2: Microwave (for speed)
- Rub the potato with a little olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
- Place on a microwave-safe plate.
- Microwave on high:
- For 1 medium potato: 5 minutes, then flip and cook another 3–4 minutes.
- For 2 potatoes: about 10–12 minutes total, flipping halfway.
- Check doneness by piercing with a fork — it should slide in easily.
🔹 Step 3: Make it Crispy (optional but amazing!)
To get that perfect crispy skin:
- After microwaving, brush the potato lightly with more oil.
- Place it on an oven rack or air fryer basket.
- Bake or air fry at 425°F (220°C) for 5–10 minutes until skin is crisp.
🔹 Step 4: Serve
- Slice open the top, fluff the inside with a fork.
- Add your favorite toppings: butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, salt, pepper, or chives.
💡 Tips
- Shortcut: Wrap the potato in a damp paper towel before microwaving for extra moisture.
- For extra crispiness: Skip the paper towel and finish in the oven or air fryer as above.
- Sweet potatoes work too — just microwave a bit longer (10–12 minutes).