Best Baked Potato Recipe

Ingredients

1. 1 large russet potato
2. Canola oil
3. Kosher salt

Preparation Steps

1. Heat oven to 350°F and position racks in top and bottom thirds.
2. Wash potato (or potatoes) thoroughly with a stiff brush and cold running water.
3. Dry, then using a standard fork poke 8 to 12 deep holes all over the spud so that moisture can escape during cooking.
4. Place in a bowl and coat lightly with oil.
5. Sprinkle with kosher salt and place potato directly on rack in middle of oven.
6. Place a baking sheet (I put a piece of aluminum foil) on the lower rack to catch any drippings.
7. Bake 1 hour or until skin feels crisp but flesh beneath feels soft.
8. Serve by creating a dotted line from end to end with your fork, then crack the spud open by squeezing the ends towards one another.
9. It will pop right open.
10. But watch out, there will be some steam.
11. NOTE: If you're cooking more than 4 potatoes, you'll need to extend the cooking time by up to 15 minutes.