1-Getting started with this baked potato recipe is straightforward and fun: Begin by preheating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Scrub the potatoes thoroughly under running water and dry them with a clean kitchen towel to remove any dirt.

2-Next: poke each potato several times with a fork to let steam escape during baking, which prevents them from bursting. Place the potatoes on the prepared baking sheet, rub them all over with olive oil, and sprinkle generously with sea salt for that irresistible crispy exterior. Bake for 45 to 60 minutes until the skins turn crisp and puffy, and the insides are tender when tested with a fork.

3-Once done, use oven mitts to remove the potatoes and let them cool for a few minutes. Slice them open carefully, fluff the insides with a fork, and add your favorite toppings like butter, sour cream, chives, tempeh bacon, salt, and pepper. The preparation time breaks down as follows: preheating and prepping takes just a few minutes, baking runs 45 to 60 minutes, and cooling adds a few more minutes before serving.