Oven Baked Potatoes in Foil Recipe
Introduction
Oven baked potatoes wrapped in foil make for a simple, comforting side dish with tender insides and a soft skin. This straightforward method requires minimal prep and results in perfectly cooked potatoes every time.
Ingredients
- 4 russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Coarse salt
- Freshly ground pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Step 2: Wash the potatoes thoroughly, then dry them with a paper towel. Place each potato on a sheet of aluminum foil. Drizzle with olive oil and use a brush to coat the entire surface. Season generously with coarse salt and freshly ground pepper. Wrap each potato tightly in the foil by rolling and folding the ends.
- Step 3: Place the wrapped potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for 45 to 60 minutes, depending on their size. Test doneness by inserting a knife into the potato; it should slide in easily without resistance.
- Step 4: Carefully remove the potatoes from the oven and unwrap. Serve hot with butter or your favorite toppings like sour cream, chives, cheese, or bacon bits.
Tips & Variations
- For crispier skin, unwrap the potatoes during the last 10 minutes of baking and place them back in the oven unwrapped.
- Try adding garlic powder or dried herbs to the olive oil before coating for extra flavor.
- Sweet potatoes can be baked using the same method but may require slightly less time.
Storage
Store any leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, unwrap the potato and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving to retain the texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I bake the potatoes without foil?
Yes, baking without foil will result in a crisper skin. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for about the same time, turning occasionally to cook evenly.
How do I know when the potatoes are fully cooked?
Insert a knife or skewer into the potato; it should slide in easily with no resistance. Larger potatoes will take longer to cook, so adjust baking time accordingly.
PrintOven Baked Potatoes in Foil Recipe
This recipe provides a simple and delicious way to enjoy perfectly baked russet potatoes wrapped in foil. Baking the potatoes at a high temperature ensures a fluffy interior and crispy skin, making them an ideal side dish or base for various toppings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 4 russet potatoes
Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Coarse salt, to taste
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) to ensure it is hot enough for baking the potatoes evenly and quickly.
- Prep the potatoes: Thoroughly wash the russet potatoes to remove any dirt, then pat them dry with a paper towel. Place each potato on a sheet of aluminum foil. Drizzle olive oil over each potato and use a basting brush to coat them evenly. Sprinkle with coarse salt and freshly ground pepper to season. Wrap each potato tightly in the foil by rolling and folding the ends securely.
- Bake: Place the foil-wrapped potatoes on a baking sheet or directly on the oven rack and bake for 45 to 60 minutes, depending on their size. The potatoes are done when a knife easily pierces to the center without resistance.
- Serve: Carefully remove the potatoes from the oven and unwrap the foil. Serve hot with butter or your favorite baked potato toppings such as sour cream, cheese, chives, or bacon bits.
Notes
- Choose potatoes of similar size for even cooking.
- Wrapping in foil helps retain moisture, making the potatoes tender inside.
- If you prefer crispier skin, unwrap for the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Use a fork or knife to test doneness to avoid undercooking.
- Store leftover baked potatoes wrapped in foil in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keywords: baked potatoes, oven baked potatoes, foil wrapped potatoes, easy side dish, russet potatoes
