Cooking Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and place an oven rack in the center position.

Scrub the Russet potatoes under cold water, then dry them thoroughly with a clean towel.

Using a fork, pierce each potato multiple times around the surface to allow steam to escape during baking.

Rub the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle generously with coarse Kosher salt, guaranteeing they're evenly coated.

Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a wire rack set on a baking sheet. This will promote even cooking and enhance the crispiness of the skin.

Bake the potatoes for 45-60 minutes, or until they're fork-tender and have reached an internal temperature of 210°F (99°C).

For extra flavor, you can briefly brine the potatoes in salted water before baking or add garlic, rosemary, or lemon to the olive oil before rubbing it on the potatoes.

Once baked, remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly before slicing them open and adding your favorite toppings.

Extra Tips:

For the best results, consider baking your potatoes at a lower temperature (350°F) for a longer period (around 3 hours) to achieve an even softer and fluffier texture.

Additionally, rotating the potatoes halfway through the cooking time guarantees even baking. Experimenting with different toppings and flavor enhancers can also elevate your baked potato experience, making it a versatile dish suitable for any occasion.