Choose large russet potatoes
Scrub the potatoes clean
Dry the potatoes thoroughly
Preheat the oven to 425°F
Pierce each potato several times with a fork
Rub the skins with oil
Sprinkle the skins with salt
Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet
Bake for 45 to 60 minutes
Turn the potatoes once halfway through baking
Check for doneness by piercing with a knife or squeezing gently
Remove from the oven when tender inside
Let the potatoes rest for 5 minutes
Slice open the tops
Fluff the insides with a fork
Add toppings as desired