1. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. **Wash the Potatoes**: Scrub the potatoes under cold running water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a towel.
3. **Poke Holes**: Use a fork to poke several holes in each potato. This allows steam to escape during baking.
4. **Oil and Salt (Optional)**: If desired, rub each potato with olive oil or melted butter and sprinkle with salt. This will help create a crispy skin.
5. **Bake the Potatoes**: Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet. Bake for 45-60 minutes, depending on the size of the potatoes. They’re done when the skin is crispy and a fork easily pierces through to the center.
6. **Check for Doneness**: If you’re unsure, use a fork or skewer to test. The potato should feel soft inside.
7. **Let Them Rest**: Once done, remove the potatoes from the oven and let them sit for a few minutes.
8. **Serve**: Cut a slit down the middle, fluff the insides with a fork, and add your favorite toppings.
### Tips:
– For extra flavor, try adding garlic powder or paprika to the skin before baking.
– If you want to speed up the cooking time, you can microwave the potatoes for 5-10 minutes before transferring them to the oven to finish baking.
Enjoy your perfect baked potatoes!
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