Best Ever Baked Potato Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes, scrubbed and dried
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Sea salt
• Optional toppings: butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, chives, bacon, chili, broccoli

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius). Place the oven rack in the middle position to ensure even cooking.
2. With a fork, pierce the potatoes multiple times on all sides. This allows steam to escape during the cooking process.
3. Rub each potato all over with olive oil. This will help the skin to crisp up.
4. Sprinkle the potatoes with a generous amount of sea salt, coating them evenly. The salt not only seasons the potatoes but also contributes to the crisping of the skin.
5. Place the potatoes directly on the middle rack of the preheated oven. You may place a baking sheet or foil on the lower rack to catch any drippings.
6. Bake the potatoes for 45 to 60 minutes, or until the skin looks crisp and the insides are tender when tested with a fork.
7. Once done, remove the potatoes from the oven and let stand for 5 minutes. This allows the interior to settle and makes them easier to handle.
8. Cut a seam along the top of each potato, gently squeeze the ends to open it up, and then fluff the inside with a fork.