how long to cook baked potatoes in oven
The cooking time for baked potatoes in the oven depends on several factors, including the size of the potatoes, the temperature of the oven, and the desired level of doneness. Here are some general guidelines:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Small to medium-sized potatoes (1-2 inches in diameter): 45-60 minutes
- Medium-sized potatoes (2-3 inches in diameter): 60-75 minutes
- Large potatoes (3-4 inches in diameter): 75-90 minutes
- Extra-large potatoes (4-5 inches in diameter): 90-120 minutes
Check for doneness:
- Insert a fork or knife into the potato. If it slides in easily, the potato is cooked.
- Check the internal temperature of the potato. It should be at least 205°F (96°C).
- Squeeze the potato gently. If it feels soft and yields to pressure, it’s cooked.
Tips:
- Scrub the potatoes clean and dry them with a paper towel before baking.
- Poke some holes in the potatoes with a fork to allow steam to escape.
- Rub the potatoes with a little bit of oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
- You can wrap the potatoes in foil if you prefer a softer, more moist potato.
- If you’re short on time, you can bake potatoes at a higher temperature (425°F/220°C) for a shorter amount of time (30-45 minutes). However, keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
Remember, the key to perfectly baked potatoes is to cook them at a consistent temperature and to check for doneness regularly.
