Baked potatoes with garlic and butter!

🥔 Baked Potatoes with Garlic and Butter

Baked potatoes with garlic and butter are a simple, comforting side dish with crispy skins and fluffy, tender insides. Fresh garlic melts into rich butter, soaking into the hot potato for deep flavor. They’re perfect alongside grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even enjoyed on their own with herbs and a sprinkle of cheese.

🧾 Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 4 medium russet potatoes

• 3 tbsp butter, melted

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

• Extra butter for serving (optional)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Preheat the oven
   Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Prepare the potatoes
   Wash and scrub the potatoes well. Pat them dry with a towel.

3. Pierce the potatoes
   Use a fork to poke several holes around each potato. This prevents them from bursting while baking.

4. Season the skins
   Rub the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle lightly with salt.

5. Bake
   Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking tray. Bake for 45–60 minutes, until the skins are crispy and the inside is soft.

6. Prepare garlic butter
   In a small bowl, mix melted butter with minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.

7. Finish the potatoes
   Remove potatoes from the oven and cut a slit down the center. Fluff the inside with a fork, then drizzle the garlic butter over the top.

8. Garnish and serve
   Sprinkle with fresh parsley and add extra butter if desired. Serve hot.

💡 Tips

• Crispier skins: Bake potatoes directly on the oven rack instead of a pan.

• Extra flavor: Add grated cheese or sour cream on top.

• Faster cooking: Microwave potatoes for 5 minutes first, then finish in the oven for 20–25 minutes.

❓ Q&A

Q: What type of potato is best for baking?
A: Russet potatoes are best because they have a fluffy interior and crisp skin when baked.

Q: Can I wrap the potatoes in foil?
A: You can, but it makes the skin softer. For crispy skins, bake without foil.

Q: How do I know when the potatoes are done?
A: Insert a fork or knife into the center; it should slide in easily.

Q: Can I add other seasonings?
A: Yes! Paprika, chili flakes, Italian herbs, or grated parmesan work great.