Vegetables
How Long to Cook Baked Potato
A baked potato takes 45–60 minutes at 425°F, 35–40 minutes in an air fryer at 400°F, or about 5 minutes in the microwave. The oven and air fryer give crispy skin; microwave is fastest.
Cooking Times by Method
| Method | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Oven | 425°F / 220°C | 45–60 minutes (medium potato) |
| Air Fryer | 400°F / 200°C | 35–40 minutes |
| Microwave | — | 5 minutes (flip at 2.5 min) + 2–3 min rest |
Oven: Pierce 10–15 times with fork (prevents explosion), rub with oil and salt. Place directly on rack for crispy skin all around.
Air Fryer: Pierce and rub with oil and salt. Flip at halfway. Crispiest skin of any method.
Microwave: Quick but soft skin. Pierce 8–10 times. Cooking time varies by size and wattage.
Chef Tips
- 1Rub with oil and salt BEFORE cooking — this is what creates the crispy, salty skin.
- 2Russet potatoes are the classic choice — high starch, fluffy interior.
- 3Don't wrap in foil — foil traps steam and makes the skin soft. Only use foil if you need to hold the potato warm for a long time.
- 4It's done when a fork slides effortlessly into the centre with no resistance.
- 5Immediately slice open and fluff with a fork right out of the oven — the steam escape prevents a gummy centre.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long to bake a potato at 425°F?
A medium russet potato at 425°F takes 45–60 minutes depending on size. Large potatoes need up to 70 minutes. Pierce with a fork — if it slides in with no resistance, it's done.
How long to bake a potato in air fryer?
A medium potato at 400°F in the air fryer takes 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway. This gives the crispiest skin of any cooking method. Pierce and rub with oil and salt before cooking.
How do you make a crispy baked potato?
Three steps: (1) rub with oil and coarse salt, (2) cook directly on the oven rack (not in foil), (3) use 425°F heat. The oil conducts heat to the skin; direct rack contact lets moisture escape on all sides.
How long to microwave a baked potato?
Pierce deeply 8–10 times, cook on high for 5 minutes, flip, cook another 2–3 minutes. Rest 2 minutes. Microwave wattage varies — done when fork slides in with no resistance. Skin won't be crispy with this method.