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!

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