How To Cook Baked Potatoes?

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C)

Scrub potatoes clean and dry them

Pierce each potato 6–8 times with a fork

Rub potatoes with olive oil (optional) and sprinkle with salt

Bake directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet

Bake until tender: about 45–60 minutes for medium potatoes; 60–90 minutes for large potatoes

Check doneness by squeezing gently (should give easily) or inserting a knife (should slide in easily)

Let rest 5–10 minutes before cutting

Slice lengthwise, fluff the inside with a fork, and add toppings (butter, sour cream, cheese, chives, salt, pepper)