📍 Introduction
Potatoes, arguably the most popular & classic root vegetable, make a great base or side for lunch or dinner. Additionally, they are incredibly easy to make. However, they require more time than many other dishes. Plan to prep for ~5 min but wait for ~1 hr for potatoes to cook
🧂 Ingredients/Gear
Potatoes (Russet ideal to start)
Baking sheet/pan
Oil (optional)
Salt (optional)
✔️ Instructions:
Preheat oven (350-425°)
Wipe or scrub off dirt
Pierce with a fork ~5-10 times (this allows steam/pressure to release)
Coat in olive oil & salt (optional)
Place in oven, either directly on the rack, or on a pan.
Remove when internal temp = 205-210°F, usually after ~45-90 min. Pierce with a knife to ensure they’re fluffy & tender.
📝 Notes, Tips & Tricks
Popular toppings: butter, sour cream, chives, bacon bits, broccoli, cheddar cheese, scallions, black beans, salsa, lentils, chili
For extra crispy skin, remove ~10 min before done & brush on some canola oil; return to oven
Cooking time varies by size of spud
For a "roasted" baked potato, coat lightly with olive oil and salt before baking
For Sweet Potato wedges: slice lengthwise, coat in olive oil & salt/pepper, bake for ~20 min, or until edges brown
Spices can be added before baking for a little color (e.g., cumin, turmeric, smoked paprika)
For ultimate fluff, open by creating a dotted line across the top with a fork. Then crack the potato open with your hands, squeezing to break up the inside
If cooking more than 4 potatoes at once, extend cooking time by ~15 min.
Potatoes are the perfect companions because they can successfully roast in a wide range of temperatures, so throw them in alongside other items you’re roasting.
🗂 Recipe Box:
Roasted Potatoes with Herbs (Bon Appétit)
🎓 Further Study:
How to Bake a Potato 🥔