Garlic and Herb Baked Potatoes Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 medium russet potatoes (or any preferred baking potato)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter for richer flavor)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (or more for a stronger garlic flavor)
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Prepare the Potatoes:

   • Wash and scrub the potatoes well to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a towel.
   • Prick the potatoes a few times with a fork to allow steam to escape while baking.

3. Season the Potatoes:

   • In a small bowl, mix the olive oil (or melted butter), minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, salt, and pepper.
   • Rub the garlic and herb mixture all over the potatoes, making sure they are evenly coated. If you like, you can sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes for extra flavor.

4. Bake the Potatoes:

   • Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack (or on a baking sheet if you prefer) and bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

   • If you like the skin extra crispy, you can flip the potatoes halfway through the cooking time.

5. Serve:

   • Once the potatoes are baked, remove them from the oven. Let them cool for a few minutes before slicing them open.
   • Garnish with a little extra rosemary or thyme and fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Serving Ideas:

• Serve as a side dish with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even a fresh salad.
• You can also serve them with sour cream, shredded cheese, or bacon bits on top for an extra indulgent treat.

Tips:

• You can experiment with other herbs like sage, oregano, or basil, depending on your preferences.
• If you want a faster option, you can microwave the potatoes for 5-6 minutes (depending on size) before baking to cut down on cooking time.

These garlic and herb baked potatoes are so flavorful and perfect for any occasion! Would you like any more tips or variations for the recipe?