To bake a potato properly, the general recommended baking time is about 45 to 60 minutes at 425°F (220°C) until the potato is tender inside and the skin is crisp
. Here are key points for baking:
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Scrub the potato clean, dry it, and prick it several times with a fork to allow steam to escape.
- Rub the potato with olive oil and sprinkle with kosher or sea salt.
- Place the potato on a baking sheet (or directly on the oven rack with a tray underneath).
- Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, flipping halfway through if desired.
- Check doneness by piercing with a fork or knife; it should slide in easily.
- The internal temperature for a perfectly baked potato is about 205°F to 210°F
If you bake at lower temperatures, the time increases-for example, about 70-90 minutes at 325-375°F depending on size
. Higher temperatures (450°F) can reduce baking time to around 45 minutes but require more attention to avoid burning
. In summary, for a standard large Russet potato, baking at 425°F for about 50-60 minutes is ideal for a fluffy interior and crispy skin.
