Alton Brown Baked Potato Recipe

Alton Brown Baked Potato Recipe is made with large russet potatoes, canola oil, kosher salt, and optional toppings like butter, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and scallions. This recipe creates a perfectly crisp-skinned, fluffy baked potato. It takes about 1 hour and 25 minutes to prepare and serves 4.

Alton Brown Baked Potato Recipe Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes, approximately 14 ounces each
• 1 tablespoon canola oil
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• Optional toppings, such as butter, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and/or scallions

How To Make Alton Brown Baked Potato Recipe

1. Preheat the Oven: Position oven racks in the middle and bottom third of the oven and heat to 350ºF.
2. Prepare the Potatoes: Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly. Dry completely and poke 8 to 12 holes in each potato with a fork.
3. Oil and Salt: Coat the potatoes in canola oil, sprinkle with kosher salt, and place them directly on the middle oven rack.
4. Bake the Potatoes: Place a foil-lined sheet pan on the lower rack to catch drips. Bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the skin is crisp and the interior reaches 205–210ºF.
5. Serve: Remove with oven mitts, slit across the top with a fork, squeeze ends to open, and serve hot with desired toppings.

Recipe Tips

• Use Large Russets: Their high starch content yields fluffy interiors.
• Don’t Skip the Poking: This prevents the potatoes from bursting in the oven.
• Oil After Washing: Drying and oiling the skin helps it crisp perfectly.
• Use a Thermometer: Aim for 205–210ºF for ideal doneness.
• Serve Immediately: They’re best hot from the oven with your favorite toppings.

What To Serve With Baked Potato

This classic side dish pairs well with grilled steak, roast chicken, barbecue ribs, or chili. You can also load it with toppings to turn it into a hearty main dish.

How To Store Baked Potato

Refrigerate: Store leftover potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350ºF until heated through for the best texture.

Baked Potato Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 280
• Total Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 7g
• Sodium: 500mg

FAQs

Can I use olive oil instead of canola oil?
Yes, though canola oil has a neutral flavor and higher smoke point.

Do I need to wrap the potatoes in foil?
No, baking unwrapped gives you a crispier skin.

Can I microwave the potatoes instead?
Microwaving is quicker but won’t produce the same crispy skin.

How do I know when they’re done?
The skin should feel crisp, and a fork should glide into the center easily.

Can I prepare them ahead of time?
Yes, but reheat in the oven to restore texture.

Try More Recipes:

• Alton Brown Meatloaf Recipe
• Alton Brown Crepes Recipe
• Alton Brown Green Bean Casserole Recipe