Name: Oven Baked Potatoes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 Russet potatoes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 4 tablespoons butter; 4 tablespoons sour cream; 1 cup shredded cheese; 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits; 1/4 cup chopped green onions

Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside—Oven Baked Potatoes are a timeless comfort food that never fails to satisfy. Whether you’re planning a hearty dinner, prepping a quick lunch, or building a cozy weekend meal, baked potatoes are a reliable and delicious base that can be dressed up or down with endless toppings.

What makes them so beloved is their simplicity and versatility. A single Russet potato can transform into a satisfying side or the star of your plate with just a few basic ingredients. No need to fuss with complicated methods—just a hot oven, a little oil and salt, and you’ve got pure golden goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Oven Baked Potatoes Recipe

The skin turns irresistibly crisp while the inside stays soft and steamy.
Customizable with your favorite toppings—bacon, cheese, sour cream, green onions, or all of the above.
Naturally gluten-free and can be made vegan-friendly.
Budget-friendly and perfect for meal prep.

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use for Baking?

Russet potatoes are the best choice for baking. Their thick skin crisps up beautifully in the oven while the starchy interior becomes light and fluffy. Yukon Golds or red potatoes can be roasted, but they won’t deliver the same classic baked potato texture.

Ingredients for the Oven Baked Potatoes

Every ingredient in this recipe has a purpose—enhancing both flavor and texture.

Russet Potatoes – These high-starch potatoes create the fluffiest interior and crispest skin.
Olive Oil – Helps achieve that beautifully golden and crispy exterior.
Kosher Salt – Adds savory depth and enhances the flavor of the potato.
Butter – Melts into the hot potato for creamy richness.
Sour Cream – Brings a tangy contrast to the warm, starchy potato.
Shredded Cheese – Melts deliciously over the steamy interior.
Cooked Bacon Bits – Add savory crunch and smoky flavor.
Chopped Green Onions – Fresh, peppery notes that brighten every bite.

How To Make the Oven Baked Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 425°F. Scrub your Russet potatoes under cold water, then dry thoroughly with a towel.

Step 2: Season and Prick

Rub each potato with olive oil, then sprinkle generously with kosher salt. Use a fork to prick each one a few times to allow steam to escape while baking.

Step 3: Bake Until Tender

Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack (or on a baking sheet). Bake for 45 to 60 minutes, depending on size, until the skin is crispy and a fork easily pierces the center.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Slice open, fluff the inside with a fork, and add butter. Then load up with sour cream, cheese, bacon bits, and green onions as desired.

How to Serve and Store Oven Baked Potatoes

This recipe yields 4 servings and is perfect for a family meal or prepping for the week ahead. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings, or let them cool and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or microwave for 2-3 minutes until heated through.

What to Serve With Oven Baked Potatoes?

Grilled Steak

The classic pairing. Juicy, charred steak and fluffy potatoes are a match made in heaven.

Barbecue Chicken

The sweet and smoky notes of BBQ chicken bring out the earthiness of the potatoes.

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This hearty soup complements baked potatoes perfectly—try it with our Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup.

Avocado Egg and Chickpea Salad

Light and protein-rich, this salad balances out the starchiness of the potato beautifully. Try it here.

Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs

If you’re craving something indulgent, these cheesy bites are the way to go. Get the recipe.

Steamed Broccoli with Lemon Butter

A simple veggie side that adds freshness and zing.

Chili

Top your baked potatoes with our Best Chili Recipe for a full-on comfort meal.

Tossed Green Salad

A crisp salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the potato toppings.

Want More Potato Ideas?

If you’re loving these oven baked potatoes, take a peek at more comforting potato-based favorites:

Scalloped Potatoes for cheesy layers of indulgence.
Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes when you’re craving classic comfort.
Duchess Potatoes to impress at your next dinner party.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes for a slow-cooked, flavor-packed meal.
Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole for a one-dish dinner that delivers.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can return to it whenever that baked potato craving hits.

Did you go classic with butter and salt or load yours up Tex-Mex style with beans and salsa? Share your twist in the comments below!

Explore more wholesome and crowd-pleasing dishes on Nora Nosh Recipes on Pinterest — your next favorite dish awaits.

Oven Baked Potatoes

Author: Nora
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Sink your fork into the perfect comfort side dish—crispy-skinned, fluffy-centered Oven Baked Potatoes. Whether you’re building out a quick lunch, planning an easy dinner, or searching for flexible food ideas for gatherings, this easy recipe has your back. It’s an all-American favorite that transforms humble potatoes into a buttery, savory, and satisfying bite. Plus, it’s perfect for those looking for quick dinner recipes, healthy snack options, or meal prep staples. With minimal ingredients and maximum comfort, this is one dish you’ll turn to again and again.