To achieve the ideal balance of crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, it all starts with selecting the right type of potato. Russet potatoes are a popular choice for because they have a high starch content, which helps create that fluffy interior. Additionally, their thick skin crisps up beautifully in the oven.
Once you’ve got your potatoes, it’s time to prep them for baking. Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Next, you can either peel the potatoes or leave the skins on. The skins add extra flavor and texture, so if you’re a fan, keep them intact. However, if you prefer a smoother texture, peel away!
After prepping the potatoes, it’s time to cut them into the desired shape. For traditional oven-baked potatoes, you can slice them into thick wedges or into medium-sized chunks. Ensure that all the pieces are similar in size to ensure even cooking. A tip to maximize crispiness is to soak the cut potatoes in cold water for about 30 minutes. This helps to remove excess starch, resulting in a crisper exterior.
Meanwhile, preheat your oven to around 425°F (220°C). While the oven is heating up, drain the potatoes and pat them dry with a kitchen towel. This step is crucial as excess moisture can hinder the potatoes from achieving the desired crispiness. Additionally, you can toss the potatoes in a small amount of olive oil, which helps to promote browning and crispiness.
Now it’s time to add some flavor! Sprinkle the potatoes with your favorite seasonings – a simple combination of salt, black pepper, and garlic powder works wonders. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can experiment with additional herbs and spices like rosemary, paprika, or thyme to enhance the flavor profile.
Spread the seasoned potatoes evenly on a baking sheet, making sure there’s enough space between each piece. Crowding the pan can cause the potatoes to steam rather than roast, leading to a lack of crispiness. For extra crispiness, you can place an oven-safe wire rack on top of the baking sheet and arrange the potatoes on it. This allows for air circulation and ensures an all-around crispy finish.
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and let the magic happen. Bake for about 30-40 minutes, flipping the potatoes halfway through to promote even browning. Keep an eye on them, as cooking times may vary depending on the size of your potato pieces and the desired level of crispiness. When the potatoes turn golden brown and are tender when pierced with a fork, they are ready to devour!
Once removed from the oven, let the potatoes cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows them to firm up slightly, enhancing their crispy texture. You can garnish with fresh herbs or serve them alongside your favorite dipping sauces for an extra flavor boost.
In conclusion, making crispy yet soft oven-baked potatoes is easier than you think. Start with the right potatoes, cut them into even pieces, soak to remove excess starch, dry them thoroughly, toss in some olive oil, season to your liking, and bake until golden brown. With these simple steps, you’ll be able to savor the perfect balance of crispy exterior and fluffy interior in every bite. Enjoy!