Baked potatoes are one of the easiest dishes to make, but even the simplest of recipes can go wrong if you’re not careful.

In this article, we’ll go over 30 common mistakes that people make when baking potatoes and show you how to avoid them.

Mistake 1: Not washing the potatoes

One of the most common mistakes people make when baking potatoes is not washing them properly. Potatoes often have dirt and debris on their skin, which can affect the taste and texture of the finished dish.

To avoid this, be sure to wash your potatoes thoroughly before baking.

Mistake 2: Not drying the potatoes

If you don’t dry your potatoes after washing them, they could end up steaming instead of baking. This can result in a soggy, unappetizing potato. Be sure to dry your potatoes with a clean towel after washing them.

Mistake 3: Overcrowding the oven

If you put too many potatoes in the oven at once, they won’t cook evenly. This can result in some potatoes being undercooked while others are overcooked.

To avoid this, only put as many potatoes in the oven as you can fit comfortably on the baking sheet.

Mistake 4: Not piercing the skin of the potato

When baking potatoes, it’s important to pierce the skin with a fork or knife. This allows steam to escape from the potato while it bakes, preventing it from exploding in the oven.

Mistake 5: Baking at the wrong temperature

Most recipes call for baking potatoes at 375-400°F. If you bake them at a higher temperature, they may cook too quickly on the outside, leaving the inside undercooked.

If you bake them at a lower temperature, they may take too long to cook and become mushy.

Mistake 6: Not seasoning the potatoes

Baked potatoes can be bland if you don’t season them properly. Be sure to sprinkle salt and pepper on the potatoes before baking, or try other seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or Parmesan cheese.

Mistake 7: Not using oil or butter

If you don’t use oil or butter when baking potatoes, they can end up dry and flavorless. Brushing the potatoes with oil or melted butter before baking can help them stay moist and add flavor.

Mistake 8: Not wrapping the potatoes in foil

Wrapping potatoes in foil can help them cook more evenly and stay moist. If you leave them unwrapped, they may dry out and become tough. Keep in mind that wrapping them in foil will result in a softer skin, so if you prefer a crispy skin, skip the foil.

Mistake 9: Not preheating the oven

Preheating the oven is important when baking potatoes. If you put the potatoes in a cold oven, they will take longer to cook and may not cook evenly. Preheat the oven to the desired temperature before putting the potatoes in.

Mistake 10: Not checking for doneness

One of the biggest mistakes people make when baking potatoes is not checking them for doneness. The best way to check if a potato is done is to insert a fork into the center of the potato. If it goes in easily and the potato feels soft, it’s done.

If it’s still firm, it needs more time in the oven.

Mistake 11: Using potatoes that are too big

If you use potatoes that are too big, they may not cook evenly. It’s best to use potatoes that are roughly the same size so that they cook evenly.

Mistake 12: Using potatoes that are too small

If you use potatoes that are too small, they may cook too quickly and end up dry. It’s best to use potatoes that are between 6-8 ounces in size.

Mistake 13: Leaving the potatoes in the oven too long

If you leave the potatoes in the oven for too long, they may become overcooked and dry. Be sure to check them at the recommended baking time, and take them out of the oven when they’re soft and tender.

Related Article The top 30 mistakes people make when baking potatoes

Mistake 14: Using the wrong type of potato

There are many different types of potatoes, and not all of them are suited for baking. Russet potatoes are the best choice for baked potatoes because they have a high starch content and a fluffy texture when cooked.

Avoid using waxy or red potatoes, which are better suited for boiling or roasting.

Mistake 15: Not flipping the potatoes

If you don’t flip the potatoes halfway through cooking, they may not cook evenly. Be sure to flip them over so that both sides can cook evenly.

Mistake 16: Cutting the potatoes too thin or too thick

If you cut the potatoes too thin, they may burn or cook too quickly. If you cut them too thick, they may not cook through. It’s best to cut them into slices that are between ¼-½ inch thick, depending on your preference.

Mistake 17: Not using a baking sheet

If you put the potatoes directly on the oven rack, they may drip onto the bottom of the oven and cause a mess. It’s best to put them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Mistake 18: Using the wrong type of pan

Using a pan that’s too small or too big can affect how the potatoes cook. It’s best to use a pan that’s roughly the same size as the potatoes, or a little larger.

Mistake 19: Not salting the water

If you’re boiling potatoes before baking them, be sure to salt the water. This will help flavor the potatoes and prevent them from becoming too bland.

Mistake 20: Boiling the potatoes for too long

If you boil the potatoes for too long, they may become mushy and fall apart when you try to bake them. Be sure to boil them just until they’re fork-tender.

Mistake 21: Not draining the potatoes properly

If you don’t drain the potatoes properly after boiling them, they may end up too wet when baked. Be sure to let them drain in a colander for a few minutes before transferring them to the baking sheet.

Mistake 22: Not using the right temperature for the water

When boiling potatoes, it’s important to use the right temperature for the water. If the water is too hot, the potatoes may break apart. If it’s too cold, they may take too long to cook. Use water that’s around 190-200°F.

Mistake 23: Adding too much water to the pan

If you add too much water to the pan when boiling potatoes, you may end up with waterlogged potatoes that are hard to bake. Use just enough water to cover the potatoes.

Mistake 24: Not letting the potatoes cool before baking

If you try to bake hot potatoes, they may not cook evenly. Be sure to let them cool for a few minutes before transferring them to the baking sheet.

Mistake 25: Not using a rack in the oven

If you put the potatoes directly on the baking sheet, they may stick and become difficult to remove. Using a rack in the oven can help air circulate around the potatoes and prevent them from sticking.

Mistake 26: Not adding toppings

Baked potatoes are delicious on their own, but adding toppings can take them to the next level. Try adding sour cream, cheese, bacon, chives, or any other toppings you like.

Mistake 27: Not reheating them properly

If you’re reheating baked potatoes, be sure to do it properly. If you microwave them, they may become rubbery. It’s best to reheat them in the oven or toaster oven at a low temperature until they’re heated through.

Mistake 28: Not storing them properly

If you have leftover baked potatoes, be sure to store them properly. Put them in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to three days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to eat them.

Mistake 29: Not using a timer

It’s easy to lose track of time when you’re baking potatoes, but using a timer can help you avoid overcooking or undercooking them. Set a timer for the recommended baking time and check the potatoes for doneness when it goes off.

Mistake 30: Not using leftovers creatively

If you have leftover baked potatoes, don’t let them go to waste. There are many creative ways to use them, such as making potato salad, mashed potato pancakes, or cheesy potato soup.

Conclusion

Baking potatoes is a simple and delicious way to enjoy a classic side dish, but it’s important to avoid these common mistakes if you want to get the best results. By following these tips, you can bake perfect potatoes every time.