Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the aroma of roasting potatoes fills the kitchen, my heart races with anticipation, a feeling I suspect many home chefs share. There’s something magical about Crispy Baked Potatoes, with their golden, crunchy skin and soft, fluffy inside. This simple recipe transforms ordinary russet potatoes into a glorious side dish that’s both comforting and versatile. Perfect for busy weeknights, these crispy delights can be topped with everything from fresh herbs to gooey cheese, making them a true crowd-pleaser. Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free and an excellent alternative to heavy takeout. Are you ready to elevate your potato game and indulge in this wholesome comfort food? Let’s dive in! Why Are Crispy Baked Potatoes So Amazing? Versatile Toppings: Whether you fancy a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream, the topping possibilities are endless. Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves crispy potatoes! They pair perfectly with dishes like Cheesy Ranch Potatoes or a hearty steak. Easy Preparation: Just toss your seasoned potatoes in the oven and relax while they cook—perfect for busy weeknights! Irresistible Crunch: The golden, crispy skin contrasts perfectly with the soft interior, making each bite a delightful experience. Healthier Option: With no additives or heavy oils, these potatoes are a guilt-free side that can complement any meal. Gluten-Free Goodness: Enjoy them without worry; these crispy baked potatoes are naturally gluten-free, suitable for all gatherings and diets! Crispy Baked Potatoes Ingredients For the Potatoes Russet Potatoes – The star of this dish, russets guarantee a fluffy inside and a fool-proof crispy skin. Olive Oil – Key for enhancing flavor and achieving that coveted crunch; avocado oil works as a great alternative too. Sea Salt – This essential seasoning elevates the potatoes’ natural flavor, creating a satisfying taste. Black Pepper – A must for seasoning, adding a hint of warmth and depth to your crispy baked potatoes. For the Seasoning Garlic Powder (optional) – For a hint of aromatic flavor; fresh garlic can offer a more robust twist if you prefer! For the Garnish Fresh Herbs (rosemary or thyme) – These fragrant herbs add a fresh touch and burst of flavor just before serving. With these carefully selected ingredients, you’ll transform simple potatoes into a delicious, crowd-pleasing side dish that fits any meal. Enjoy! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Baked Potatoes Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is essential for achieving that perfect crispy skin on your baked potatoes. As the oven warms up, gather your medium-sized russet potatoes and prepare to transform them into a delightful side dish. Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes Wash and scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. Once they’re clean, dry them carefully with a towel. A well-dried potato is key to achieving that sought-after crispiness, so take your time on this step for perfect results! Step 3: Prick and Season Using a fork, prick holes all over each potato. This allows steam to escape during baking, preventing any unwanted explosions. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, and optional garlic powder. Rub this flavorful mixture generously over each potato, ensuring an even coat. Step 4: Bake the Potatoes Place the seasoned potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a lined baking sheet for convenience. Bake for 45-60 minutes, checking for doneness when the skin turns golden and a fork easily pierces through. If desired, rotate the potatoes halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. Step 5: Cool and Fluff Once the Crispy Baked Potatoes are fully cooked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly for about 5 minutes. Carefully squeeze the sides of each potato to fluff the insides, allowing the steam to escape and creating a perfect soft and airy interior. Step 6: Garnish and Serve Finally, sprinkle fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme over the crispy skin of your baked potatoes for an aromatic finish. These delicious, golden wonders are now ready to be served alongside your favorite meal. Enjoy the crispy exterior paired with the fluffy interior—and watch them disappear! Crispy Baked Potatoes Variations Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine as you explore these flavorful twists on Crispy Baked Potatoes! Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or parsley into the olive oil for an aromatic touch. The fragrance of the herbs will elevate the classic flavor profile and make your dish even more enticing. Sweet Potato Swap: Substitute russet potatoes with sweet potatoes for a naturally sweeter, healthier version. This alternative adds a beautiful color and a delightful hint of sweetness that pairs well with savory toppings. Spicy Kick: Add chili powder or cayenne pepper to the oil mixture for an exciting heat level. Fire up your taste buds and enjoy a delectable spicy potato that complements a range of meals, from BBQ to taco night. Cheesy Delight: Midway through baking, sprinkle a generous amount of your favorite cheese over the potatoes for an indulgent twist. As the cheese melts, it creates a crispy, irresistible topping that adds richness to every bite. Mediterranean Flair: Top the baked potatoes with feta cheese, olives, and cherry tomatoes once they’re out of the oven. This combination adds a zesty freshness, perfect for those warm summer evening meals that remind you of vacation dinners by the sea. Creamy Dips: Serve your crispy baked potatoes with a side of herbed butter or a tangy sour cream dip. These creamy companions elevate the experience, ensuring you savor every crunchy bite! Grandma’s Classics: Think outside the box and try topping your crispy baked potatoes with traditional pot roast or beef stew. This comfort-food classic takes the humble potato to a whole new level. Veggie-Packed: For a fun twist, throw on sautéed veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms right before serving. Their vibrant colors and flavors complement the crispy potatoes, making for a colorful and wholesome meal. As you explore these variations, remember to check out some of our other recipes like Cheesy Ranch Potatoes or Garlic Butter Potatoes for more inspired cooking ideas! How to Store and Freeze Crispy Baked Potatoes Fridge: Store leftover crispy baked potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Make sure they are cooled completely to maintain their texture. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the potatoes in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Blanching them before freezing can help preserve texture. Reheating: To restore their crispy exterior, reheat the potatoes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, checking frequently until hot. Avoid Microwaving: Avoid reheating in the microwave, as this method makes the potatoes soggy, which is not the goal when enjoying crispy baked potatoes. Expert Tips for Crispy Baked Potatoes Choose the Right Potatoes: Use medium-sized russet potatoes for the best results, as their higher starch content ensures a fluffy interior and crispy skin. Dry Thoroughly: After washing the potatoes, make sure to dry them completely. This step is crucial for achieving that delicious crispy texture. Don’t Overcrowd: Give each potato enough space on the baking sheet; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of baking, affecting the crispiness of your potatoes. Prick Carefully: Pricking the potatoes with a fork allows steam to escape during baking, preventing exploding potatoes! Make sure to pierce all sides. Use Enough Oil: A generous drizzle of olive oil not only enhances flavor but also promotes crispiness. Ensure an even coating for the perfect texture. Adjust Cooking Time: Every oven is different; start checking your crispy baked potatoes around the 45-minute mark to avoid overcooking. Enjoy your deliciously crispy baked potatoes! What to Serve with Crispy Baked Potatoes Imagine the delightful crunch of crispy baked potatoes perfectly paired with other flavors that enhance your meal’s experience. Savory Sour Cream Dip: A dollop of creamy sour cream brings a cool contrast to crispy potatoes, elevating every bite with tangy goodness. Zesty Grilled Chicken: Juicy chicken with a hint of lemon perfectly complements the rich texture of the potatoes, creating a delightful balance of flavors together. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of colorful roasted veggies adds brightness and nutrition, providing a fresh crunch alongside the crispy baked potatoes. Cheesy Broccoli: Tender broccoli topped with melted cheese creates a savory, comforting side that pairs beautifully with the warm potatoes. Herbed Butter: A smear of fragrant herbed butter melts over the warm potatoes, infusing them with rich flavors for a comforting touch. Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: The tangy sweetness of balsamic-glazed sprouts contrasts beautifully with the potatoes, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal. Classic Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing bring a refreshing crunch that balances the hearty nature of crispy baked potatoes beautifully. Sparkling Lemonade: A glass of fresh sparkling lemonade adds a fizzy brightness, making it a perfect pairing with savory baked potatoes. With these delightful accompaniments, your crispy baked potatoes will take center stage at the dinner table, making for an unforgettable meal! Make Ahead Options These Crispy Baked Potatoes are perfect for busy weeknights! You can wash, scrub, and prick the potatoes and then store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply rub the olive oil and seasoning mixture over them and bake as directed. For even more convenience, you can prepare the seasoning blend in advance and store it in a small container. Just be sure to keep the potatoes dry to maintain their quality. Alternatively, bake the potatoes in advance and reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore the crispy skin before serving—just as delicious as when freshly made! Crispy Baked Potatoes Recipe FAQs How do I select the best potatoes for making crispy baked potatoes? Absolutely! For the best crispy baked potatoes, I recommend using medium-sized russet potatoes. Their high starch content is key to achieving a fluffy interior and crisply baked skin. Look for potatoes that are firm with smooth skin and free of dark spots or blemishes. What’s the best way to store leftover crispy baked potatoes? Very good question! To keep your leftover crispy baked potatoes fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the potatoes are completely cooled before storing to maintain their texture and prevent sogginess. Just reheat them in the oven for that beloved crunch! Can I freeze crispy baked potatoes? Definitely! Freezing is a fantastic way to extend their life. First, allow them to cool completely. Then, wrap each potato in aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This method will help retain their crispy exterior! What should I do if my baked potatoes aren’t crispy enough? If your crispy baked potatoes aren’t turning out as crispy as desired, make sure they are thoroughly dried after washing, as moisture can lead to steaming and sogginess. Also, check that you’re using enough olive oil for even coating, and consider increasing the baking time slightly. For extra crispiness, you can bake them directly on the oven rack rather than a baking sheet. Are crispy baked potatoes safe for dogs? It’s important to be cautious! Plain baked potatoes without any toppings are generally safe for dogs in moderation. However, avoid adding any seasonings such as garlic or salt, which can be harmful to pets. Always consult with your veterinarian for tailored advice regarding your pet’s diet. How long can I keep crispy baked potatoes in the fridge? You can store crispy baked potatoes in your refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just be sure to keep them in an airtight container to help maintain their freshness. Remember, the sooner you enjoy them, the better the flavor and texture! Crispy Baked Potatoes: Your New Favorite Comfort Food Crispy Baked Potatoes are your new favorite comfort food with a crunchy skin and fluffy inside. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hrCooling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins Servings: 4 potatoesCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 170 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Potatoes4 medium Russet Potatoes Key for a fluffy inside and crispy skin2 tablespoons Olive Oil Enhances flavor and achieves crunch1 teaspoon Sea Salt Essential for flavor1 teaspoon Black Pepper For seasoningFor the Seasoning1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Optional, for aromatic flavorFor the GarnishFresh Herbs (rosemary or thyme) Adds flavor before serving Equipment OvenBaking sheetMixing bowlFork Method Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Baked PotatoesPreheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to achieve the perfect crispy skin.Wash and scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly, then dry them completely.Prick holes all over each potato with a fork. Combine olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, and garlic powder in a bowl, then rub this mixture generously over each potato.Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 45-60 minutes, checking for doneness when the skin is golden.Once cooked, cool slightly and squeeze the sides of each potato to fluff the insides.Garnish with fresh herbs before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1potatoCalories: 170kcalCarbohydrates: 37gProtein: 4gSodium: 400mgPotassium: 950mgFiber: 4gSugar: 1gVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg NotesCrispy Baked Potatoes are versatile and can be topped with various ingredients to suit your taste. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!