To bake a potato at 400°F, the general recommended baking time depends on the size of the potato:
- Small potatoes: 35 to 40 minutes
- Medium potatoes: 45 to 50 minutes
- Large potatoes: 60 to 65 minutes
- Extra large potatoes (12 oz+): 75 minutes or more
For best results, preheat the oven to 400°F, scrub and dry the potatoes, optionally prick them with a fork to allow steam to escape, then rub them with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet. Bake until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork or when the internal temperature reaches about 205°F to 210°F, which usually takes about 1 hour for medium to large potatoes
. Avoid wrapping potatoes in foil if you want crispy skin, as foil traps moisture and steams the potato instead of baking it
. In summary, baking a medium to large potato at 400°F typically takes about 45 to 60 minutes for a fluffy interior and crispy skin.
