To bake a potato, there are a few different temperature and time options, but most recipes suggest baking at around 400-450°F for about an hour. Here are the steps to bake a potato:
- Preheat the oven to 400-450°F.
- Scrub the potato clean and pat it dry.
- Prick the potato with a fork a few times to create tiny holes that allow steam to escape.
- Rub the potato with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
- Place the potato directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet lined with foil.
- Bake for about 50-70 minutes, depending on the size of the potato and the oven temperature. Check for doneness by piercing the potato with a fork or gently squeezing it with an oven mitt. The potato should be soft and tender on the inside.
- Once the potato is done, slice it open and serve with desired toppings.
Its worth noting that some recipes suggest microwaving the potato for a few minutes before baking to cut down on the baking time. However, microwaving can result in a less crispy skin.