Baked potatoes with olive oil

Baked potatoes with olive oil are a straightforward side dish featuring crispy skins and fluffy interiors, seasoned with salt and pepper. This simple recipe is perfect for any occasion, making it a versatile addition to your kitchen repertoire.

24 Nov 2025
Cook time 60 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

2 potatoes
1 dash salt
1 dash black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil

Baked potatoes with olive oil are a simple yet delicious side dish that can accompany any main course. With just a few ingredients like potatoes, salt, black pepper, and olive oil, you can create a crispy and flavorful dish that is nutritious and satisfying. Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it's hot when you put the potatoes in.

2. Prepare the Potatoes:
- Wash the potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a kitchen towel.
- Using a sharp knife or fork, poke several holes all over each potato. This helps steam escape during baking and prevents the potatoes from bursting.

3. Season the Potatoes:
- Place the potatoes on a baking sheet or a piece of aluminum foil.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the potatoes. Use your hands to rub the oil evenly all over the potatoes' skin.
- Sprinkle the salt and black pepper evenly over the potatoes. Feel free to add more seasonings or herbs if you like.

4. Bake the Potatoes:
- Place the baking sheet with prepared potatoes in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. The exact time will depend on the size of the potatoes.

5. Serve:
- Remove the potatoes from the oven. Let them cool for a few minutes until they are safe to handle.
- Carefully slice each potato open and fluff up the inside with a fork. You can add additional toppings like butter, sour cream, chives, herbs, cheese, or bacon bits if you desire.

Baking potatoes with a drizzle of olive oil brings out their natural flavors and creates a crispy texture that is hard to resist. This easy recipe is an excellent way to enjoy a comfort food classic with minimal effort. Serve them alongside your favorite main dishes, and enjoy the rich and savory taste of well-seasoned baked potatoes.

Baked potatoes with olive oil FAQ:

How long should I bake the potatoes?

Bake the potatoes for 45-60 minutes at 400°F (200°C), depending on their size. They are done when tender and easily pierced with a fork.

What kind of potatoes work best for baking?

Russet potatoes are ideal for baking due to their starchy texture, which results in a fluffy interior. However, Yukon Golds can also be used for a creamier texture.

Can I use a different oil instead of olive oil?

Yes, you can substitute olive oil with other oils such as vegetable oil or avocado oil. Keep in mind that this may alter the flavor slightly.

How do I know when the potatoes are done?

The potatoes are done when they are tender and yield easily when pierced with a fork. The skin should also be crispy.

How should I store leftover baked potatoes?

Store leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Tips:

- Choose the Right Potatoes: Opt for starchy potatoes like Russet or Idaho for the best results. They have a fluffy interior that contrasts beautifully with the crispy exterior.

- Uniformly Sized Pieces: Cut the potatoes into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. This will help all the pieces reach the perfect level of crispiness simultaneously.

- Preheat the Oven: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing the potatoes inside. This helps to start the cooking process immediately, resulting in crispier potatoes.

- Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the potatoes from sticking and make cleanup easier.

- Flip Halfway: Turn the potatoes halfway through the baking time to ensure they brown evenly on all sides.

- Season Generously: Don’t be afraid to add your favorite herbs and spices in addition to salt and pepper. Garlic powder, paprika, or rosemary can add extra layers of flavor.

- Let Them Rest: Allow the potatoes to rest for a few minutes after baking before serving. This helps them to finish cooking internally and develop maximum flavor.

Nutrition per serving

2 Servings
Calories 230kcal
Protein 6g
Carbohydrates 55g
Fiber 6g
Sugar 2.46g
Fat 7g

Baked potatoes with olive oil