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!