how long to oven bake potato

The baking time for potatoes in an oven depends on the size and type of potato, as well as the oven temperature. Here are some general guidelines:

1. Whole Potatoes:

   • Small potatoes: 45–60 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
   • Medium potatoes: 60–75 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
   • Large potatoes: 75–90 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

2. Pierced Potatoes (for faster cooking):

   • Piercing potatoes with a fork allows steam to escape and can reduce cooking time by about 15–20 minutes.

3. Potato Wedges or Slices:

   • Wedges: 30–40 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
   • Slices or thin wedges: 20–30 minutes at 400°F (200°C).

4. Mashed Potato Halves:

   • Halved potatoes can be baked for 30–45 minutes at 375°F (190°C) before mashing.

5. New Potatoes or Baby Potatoes:

   • These can be baked in 30–45 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

6. Twice-Baked Potatoes:

   • Bake whole potatoes for 45–60 minutes at 375°F (190°C), then let them cool, scoop out the flesh, and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes.

Tips:

• Always preheat the oven before baking potatoes.
• Scrub the potatoes clean and pat them dry with a paper towel before baking.
• For whole potatoes, rub with oil and season with salt for crispy skin.
• Check for doneness by inserting a fork or knife; it should slide in easily.

Adjust the cooking time based on your specific oven and the size of the potatoes.