There’s something incredibly comforting about a perfectly baked potato. Its crispy skin and fluffy interior make it a versatile and delicious side dish, perfect for any meal.

However, getting that ideal baked potato isn’t always as straightforward as it seems. Many people unknowingly make mistakes in their potato baking process, resulting in less than stellar results.

In this article, we’ll highlight some common mistakes you may be making when baking potatoes and provide you with tips on how to achieve potato perfection every time.

1. Choosing the wrong type of potato

The first mistake occurs right at the grocery store when you select the type of potato to bake. Not all potatoes are created equal, and some varieties are better suited for baking than others.

Russet potatoes, also known as Idaho potatoes, are the go-to choice for baking. Their high starch content results in a light and fluffy texture when baked, perfect for creating that melt-in-your-mouth experience. Avoid waxy potatoes like red or fingerling potatoes, as they are better suited for boiling or roasting.

2. Skipping the preheating step

Preheating the oven is a crucial step that many people overlook when baking potatoes. Preheating ensures that the oven reaches the desired temperature before you place the potatoes inside, allowing for even cooking.

Without preheating, the potatoes may not cook evenly and could end up undercooked in the center or overcooked on the outside.

3. Not properly cleaning the potatoes

While it may seem tempting to skip the potato rinsing step, especially if you plan to remove the skin after baking, it’s essential to clean the potatoes thoroughly. Potatoes have a natural dirt coating that can contain bacteria or pesticides.

Rinsing them under cold water removes this dirt and ensures you’re not ingesting any harmful substances. Additionally, proper cleaning helps to remove excess starch, resulting in a crispier skin after baking.

4. Overcrowding the baking pan

Another common mistake is overcrowding the baking pan with too many potatoes. Each potato needs enough space around it for the hot air to circulate, allowing for even cooking.

Overcrowding can lead to uneven baking, with some potatoes being undercooked while others are overcooked. It’s best to give each potato enough room on the baking pan to ensure they all bake evenly.

5. Not properly drying the potatoes

After cleaning the potatoes, it’s crucial to dry them thoroughly before baking. Excess moisture on the potato skin can prevent it from becoming crispy during the cooking process.

Use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to pat the potatoes dry after rinsing. This step will help promote a crispy skin and prevent any sogginess that can result from moisture on the potatoes.

6. Skipping the oil rub

To achieve that deliciously crispy skin, it’s important to coat the potatoes in a thin layer of oil before baking.

Whether you prefer olive oil, vegetable oil, or melted butter, the oil creates a barrier that helps seal in moisture while allowing the skin to crisp up. Skipping the oil rub can result in dry, lackluster skin that doesn’t have the desired texture.

7. Over-seasoning or under-seasoning

The seasoning you choose for your baked potatoes can make or break their flavor. Often, people make the mistake of either over-seasoning or under-seasoning their potatoes. Finding the right balance is key.

A simple sprinkle of salt and pepper on the oiled potatoes before baking can enhance their natural flavor without overpowering it. If desired, you can also experiment with additional seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or fresh herbs to add a unique twist to your baked potatoes.

8. Baking at the wrong temperature

The baking temperature you choose can greatly affect the outcome of your potatoes. If the oven temperature is too low, the potatoes may take longer to cook, resulting in a dry interior.

On the other hand, baking at too high a temperature can lead to a burnt or overly crispy exterior while the inside remains undercooked. It’s recommended to bake potatoes at around 400°F (200°C) for about 45-60 minutes, depending on their size. This temperature allows for a perfect balance of crispy skin and tender insides.

9. Neglecting to prick the potatoes

Potatoes are natural moisture holders, and failing to prick them before baking can result in unexpected explosions in the oven. Pricking the potatoes with a fork or a knife creates small vent holes that allow steam to escape during the cooking process.

Without these holes, pressure can build up inside the potato, causing it to burst open and potentially make a mess in your oven.

10. Not allowing the potatoes to rest

Once your potatoes are out of the oven, it’s essential to let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows for the redistribution of moisture, resulting in a more evenly textured potato.

It also helps the skin to crisp up further and become more appealing. Avoid cutting into a potato immediately after it comes out of the oven and instead, exercise patience by giving it a few minutes to rest.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can elevate your potato baking game and achieve incredible results every time.

Remember to choose the right type of potato, preheat your oven, properly clean and dry the potatoes, avoid overcrowding the baking pan, and give the potatoes the right seasonings and treatment they deserve. Baking potatoes to perfection requires attention to detail, but the rewarding taste and texture make it all worth it.