Baked potatoes with garlic and butter are the ultimate comfort food, offering a crispy skin and a soft, fluffy interior infused with rich, garlicky goodness. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend gatherings, or even a cozy solo meal. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Plus, it’s highly customizable, allowing you to add your favorite toppings or seasonings to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
- For the Potatoes:
- 4 large Russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- For the Garlic Butter:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Scrub the potatoes thoroughly under running water and pat them dry with a kitchen towel.
- Use a fork to poke holes all over each potato to allow steam to escape while baking.
- Coat with Oil and Seasoning:
- Rub each potato with olive oil, ensuring an even coating.
- Sprinkle with salt and black pepper, rubbing the seasoning into the skin for maximum flavor.
- Bake the Potatoes:
- Place the potatoes on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until they are fork-tender and the skin is crispy.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter:
- While the potatoes are baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
- Add minced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in chopped parsley and remove from heat.
- Slice and Add Butter:
- Once the potatoes are done, let them cool slightly before slicing them open lengthwise.
- Fluff the insides with a fork and drizzle the garlic butter mixture generously over each potato.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
- Serve immediately while hot and enjoy!
This dish is perfect for pairing with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as a standalone meal. You can find more details here.