bake potatoes

Many chefs claim that a baked potato can only be enjoyed fresh out of the oven. The truth is, potatoes can be cooked up in the microwave as well. The choice is yours and depends on your preferences and schedule. To bake a potato in the oven, place your oven racks at the two center-most spots in your oven and preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Wash your potato thoroughly, then poke it 8 to 10 times with a fork. Coat the potato with olive oil and coarse salt and place it directly on the top rack, with a cookie sheet on the bottom rack to catch any mess. Bake for about an hour, until the potato looks crisp on the outside but feels soft inside. To make your potato in the microwave, wash your spud and poke it with a fork 8 to 10 times, then microwave it on high for 4 minutes. Turn it over and microwave it for a few more minutes, then wrap it in foil until you're ready to eat. Simple For a no-frills baked potato, simply top it with butter and sour cream. This classic combo isn't fancy, but it's delicious. Add chives if you want to make a little more dressed-up. Loaded For a loaded baked potato, top your spud with butter and cheese and then place it under a broiler for just a few minutes, until the cheese starts to melt. Pull it out of the oven and add bacon, chives and sour cream. Spicy For a spicy twist on a baked potato, top it with your favorite salsa. This healthy combo is sure to please any crowd. Veggies and cheese Make a meal out of your baked potato by combining your dairy and veggies with your starch. Top your potato with steamed broccoli or any other veggie you love, followed by a heaping helping of melted cheese. Yum! Beans Talk about filling! Top your baked potato with baked beans or pork and beans for a meal that will last you most of the day. Top it with cheese for a special treat. Coleslaw Who says these delicious sides need to be served separately? Top your baked potato with your favorite coleslaw for a dish you won't soon forget! Cream cheese Top your baked potato with cream cheese and bacon, onions, ham or chives. Meat Skip the sandwich! Top your baked potato with chicken salad or tuna salad for a meal you'll definitely enjoy. Chili This is a super-delicious combo! Top your baked potato with chili, cheese and sour cream for a warm, gooey and comforting meal you'll love.