how long to cook baked potato in the oven
The cooking time for a baked potato in the oven depends on the size of the potato and the oven temperature. Here are some general guidelines:
1. Preheating the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or 425°F (220°C) for optimal results.
2. Preparing the Potato:
- Scrub the potato clean and pat it dry with a paper towel.
- Poke some holes in the potato with a fork to allow steam to escape.
3. Cooking Time:
-
At 400°F (200°C):
- Small potatoes: 45–60 minutes
- Medium potatoes: 60–75 minutes
- Large potatoes: 75–90 minutes
- At 425°F (220°C):
- Small potatoes: 30–45 minutes
- Medium potatoes: 45–60 minutes
- Large potatoes: 60–75 minutes
4. Checking for Doneness:
- The potato is done when it’s soft when squeezed gently with an oven mitt or when a fork can easily pierce through to the center.
5. Optional:
- Rub the potato with a little oil and sprinkle with salt before baking for extra flavor.
6. Serving:
- Let the potato cool for a few minutes, then slice it open lengthwise and add your favorite toppings.
Enjoy your perfectly baked potato!