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Oven-Baked Potatoes: A Simple and Well-Spiced Recipe

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How to Make Oven-Baked Potatoes

Oven-baked potatoes are the perfect side dish for any meal. They’re incredibly easy to make, packed with flavor, and have a satisfying crispy texture. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or preparing a special meal, these potatoes will be a hit. With simple seasonings and a little time in the oven, you can create a delicious and comforting dish with minimal effort. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making these irresistible oven-baked potatoes.

Ingredients for Oven-Baked Potatoes

  • 5 or 6 large potatoes (washed and unpeeled)
  • Seasonings:
    • Oregano
    • Salt
    • Olive oil
    • Black pepper
    • Other seasonings of your choice (paprika, garlic powder, rosemary, etc.)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Wash and Slice the Potatoes

  1. Wash the potatoes thoroughly. There’s no need to peel them, as the skin will crisp up nicely when baked.
  2. Slice the potatoes into half-moon shapes. Aim for even slices so they cook uniformly. You can slice them thinner for crispier results or thicker for a more tender interior.

Step 2: Boil the Potatoes

  1. Place the sliced potatoes in a pot and cover them with water.
  2. Add a pinch of salt to the water and bring it to a boil.
  3. Cook the potatoes for about 10 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Be sure not to overcook them—just enough to soften slightly.

Step 3: Drain and Season

  1. Drain the cooked potatoes well, removing any excess water.
  2. Transfer the potatoes to a baking dish.
  3. Season the potatoes with your choice of seasonings. Drizzle olive oil over the potatoes, and sprinkle with salt, pepper, oregano, and any other spices or herbs you prefer. Toss the potatoes to make sure they’re evenly coated.

Step 4: Bake the Potatoes

  1. Preheat your oven to 392°F (200°C).
  2. Arrange the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on the baking dish. Spread them out to allow even roasting.
  3. Bake for about 40 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy. You can flip them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
  2. These crispy, golden oven-baked potatoes are now ready to be enjoyed as a side dish to your favorite meal!

Tips for Perfect Oven-Baked Potatoes

  1. Experiment with seasonings: You can customize the flavor by adding different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or garlic powder. A sprinkle of cheese or fresh parsley after baking can add extra flair.
  2. Ensure even cooking: For the crispiest potatoes, spread them out evenly in the baking dish so that they don’t overlap. This allows for better air circulation and more even roasting.
  3. Don’t skip the boiling step: Boiling the potatoes before baking helps them cook faster and ensures they become soft inside while crisping up on the outside.
  4. Use high-quality olive oil: The olive oil not only helps with crisping but also enhances the flavor of the potatoes. Extra virgin olive oil will give a richer taste.
  5. Customize with toppings: If you want to add extra flavor, top the baked potatoes with sour cream, cheese, or chopped fresh herbs before serving.
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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use small potatoes instead of large ones?

Yes, small potatoes (like baby potatoes) can be used. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as smaller potatoes will cook faster. You can slice them into quarters or halves.

2. Can I make these potatoes in advance?

You can prepare the potatoes ahead of time by boiling them and seasoning them. Store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking. When ready, just bake them as directed.

3. How can I make these potatoes extra crispy?

To get extra crispy potatoes, make sure to spread them out evenly on the baking sheet, and flip them halfway through baking. You can also increase the temperature slightly during the last 10 minutes to get them even crispier.

4. Can I add cheese to these baked potatoes?

Yes, cheese is a great addition. You can sprinkle grated cheese on top of the potatoes about 5 minutes before they are done baking to allow it to melt.

5. How long do the leftovers last?

Store leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or on a stovetop to regain some of their crispiness.

These Oven-Baked Potatoes are an easy and tasty dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of meals. Whether you’re having them with steak, roasted chicken, or a fresh salad, they are sure to be a hit. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a satisfying side dish that everyone will love.

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