Prepare the Potatoes

Wash the potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. After washing, pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they bake properly.

Poke and Coat the Potatoes

Use a fork to poke several holes around each potato. This step is crucial as it allows steam to escape during baking, preventing the potatoes from bursting. Next, rub each potato with olive oil or melted butter, followed by a generous sprinkle of salt. This will help achieve that desired crispy skin.

Bake the Potatoes

Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.