Cracker Barrel Baked Potato
This Cracker Barrel Baked Potato recipe replicates the signature baked potatoes served at the popular restaurant. With perfectly crispy skin and a soft, fluffy interior, these potatoes are seasoned to perfection with olive oil and sea salt. This versatile recipe can be topped with a variety of ingredients such as butter, cheese, sour cream, bacon, and chives, making it the ideal side dish for any meal. Simple, delicious, and satisfying, this baked potato recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Equipment
- 1 Baking Sheet or Oven Rack – for baking the potatoes
- 1 Fork – for pricking the potatoes
- 1 Paper Towel – for drying the potatoes
- 1 Knife (optional) – for slicing the potatoes open before serving
- 1 Basting Brush – for applying oil or butter to the potatoes
Ingredients
- 4 large Russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt
Optional Toppings:
- Butter to taste
- Sour cream to taste
- Shredded cheddar cheese to taste
- Bacon bits to taste
- Chives or green onions to taste
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure the potatoes bake at the ideal temperature for a crispy skin.
Prep the Potatoes:
- Wash the potatoes thoroughly under cold water, scrubbing off any dirt. Pat them dry with a paper towel. Using a fork, prick each potato several times (about 5-6 times) on all sides to allow steam to escape during baking.
Season the Potatoes:
- Rub each potato with 2 tablespoons of olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle them generously with 1 tablespoon of coarse sea salt, making sure to coat them evenly.
Bake the Potatoes:
- Place the seasoned potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet. Bake for 50–60 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Check for Doneness:
- To check if the potatoes are done, insert a fork or knife into the thickest part of the potato. If it slides in easily, the potatoes are ready.
Serve and Top:
- Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them rest for 2-3 minutes. Slice them open, fluff the inside with a fork, and add your favorite toppings like butter, sour cream, cheese, bacon bits, and chives.
Notes
- For Crispy Skin: Avoid wrapping the potatoes in foil, as it traps moisture and prevents the skin from getting crispy.
- Reheating: If you have leftovers, store them in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
- Optional Toppings: This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to load your potatoes with whatever toppings you like. Consider adding chili, steamed broccoli, or even pulled pork for a heartier dish.