- Clean the Potatoes: Scrub the potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt, especially if you plan to eat the skin. Pat them dry with a towel.
- Pierce and Season: Using a fork, pierce each potato several times to allow steam to escape during baking. Rub each potato with olive oil (or melted butter) and season generously with salt and pepper. This step helps the skin crisp up beautifully.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Herb Mixture
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, fresh rosemary, thyme, parsley, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until well combined.
Step 4: Bake the Potatoes
- Bake: Place the potatoes directly on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 45-60 minutes, depending on the size of the potatoes. Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the center—if it goes in easily, the potatoes are ready.
- Halfway Point: At the halfway mark (about 30 minutes), carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven and brush the potatoes with the garlic herb mixture. This will allow the herbs and garlic to infuse the potatoes as they finish baking.
Step 5: Serve
- Rest: Once the potatoes are fully baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Cut and Top: Slice the potatoes open lengthwise and fluff the inside with a fork. If desired, top with extra butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, or chives for added flavor.
Final Notes: Tips and Variations
- Crispier Skin: For extra crispy skin, leave the potatoes in the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes after brushing with the garlic herb mixture.
- Roasted Garlic: For a deeper garlic flavor, you can roast a whole head of garlic alongside the potatoes. Simply cut off the top of the garlic bulb, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and bake until soft. Spread the roasted garlic on your potatoes for an extra layer of flavor.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like oregano, basil, or dill to suit your taste preferences.
- Storage: Leftover baked potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crisp skin.
Conclusion:
Garlic and Herb Baked Potatoes offer a savory, aromatic twist on the classic baked potato. The combination of crispy skin, tender potato, and fragrant herbs makes this dish a perfect side for any meal. This exclusive recipe is easy to prepare and sure to be a hit with your family or guests. Try it tonight for a flavorful and satisfying experience!