Jacket Potatoes | Crisp And Fluffy Potato Recipe

PUBLISHED September 12, 2025· MODIFIED September 12, 2025 · by the author listed in the recipe card 1292 words. · About 7 minutes to read this article.· This post may contain affiliate links · As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases· Leave a Comment

If you’re craving the ultimate comfort food, you can’t go wrong with Jacket Potatoes. Crispy, golden skin with a soft, fluffy inside, these oven-baked potatoes are the perfect base for endless toppings. From buttery simplicity to hearty, fully loaded creations.

Why You’ll Love These Perfect Potatoes

Crispy Perfection. With the right baking method, you’ll get irresistibly crisp skins every time.
Fluffy Centers. Perfectly cooked interiors that are light and pillowy.
Customizable. From butter and cheese to chili and sour cream, the topping options are endless.
Simple Ingredients. All you need are pantry staples. No fancy tools required.
Versatile. Great as a main dish, side dish, or even a meal prep option for busy weeks.

Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner, planning a loaded potato bar, or just treating yourself to comfort food, these Jacket Potatoes will hit the spot.

What Do Jacket Potatoes Taste Like?

Jacket Potatoes are a true comfort food classic. The combination of crispy skins and soft, fluffy insides makes them universally loved. When paired with your favorite toppings, they transform into a complete meal.

Plus, they’re budget-friendly, filling, and easy to scale up for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Russet Potatoes– The star of the recipe, their thick skins crisp up beautifully while the fluffy interior makes the perfect base for toppings.
Olive Oil– Rubbed onto the potatoes before baking, it ensures the skins turn golden, crispy, and flavorful.
Salt– Coarse or flaky salt enhances taste while also adding a light crunch to the baked skin.
Black Pepper– Adds a gentle kick of seasoning that complements the potato’s natural flavor.
Butter– Melts into the hot, fluffy center, delivering rich, classic comfort with every bite.
Toppings of Choice– Transform simple jacket potatoes into a full meal. Try gooey cheese, tangy sour cream, hearty chili, baked beans, or fresh herbs add variety and personality.

How To Make Jacket Potatoes

Prep the Potatoes. Scrub the potatoes well under running water and pat dry with a towel. Prick each potato a few times with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.
Oil & Season. Rub each potato generously with olive oil and sprinkle with coarse salt. This step is key for achieving crispy, flavorful skins.
Bake to Crispy Perfection. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet. Bake for 50–60 minutes, depending on size, until the skins are crisp and the insides feel tender when pierced with a knife.
Split & Fluff. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Slice open lengthwise, then gently fluff the inside with a fork.
Add Toppings & Serve. Top with butter, shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or any of your favorite jacket potato toppings. Serve hot.

Tips And Tricks

Making the perfect jacket potato is all about achieving that irresistible balance between a crispy, golden skin and a soft, fluffy inside. With just a few simple techniques, you can transform an ordinary baked potato into something truly delicious and comforting.

Choose the Right Potato. Russet or baking potatoes are best thanks to their starchy interior and sturdy skins.
Prick the Potatoes. Use a fork to poke a few holes before baking. This prevents them from bursting in the oven and helps steam escape.
Rub with Oil and Salt. A thin coat of olive oil and a sprinkle of coarse salt ensures the skins crisp up and develop amazing flavor.
Bake Directly on the Rack. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack (with a tray beneath if needed) to allow even airflow for crispier skins.

Variations

One of the best things about jacket potatoes is how versatile they are. From simple classics to fully loaded creations, you can customize them to suit your mood, occasion, or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Here are some tasty variations to inspire your next baked potato night:

Classic Butter & Cheese– Keep it simple with a pat of butter that melts into the fluffy center, topped with a handful of sharp cheddar or mozzarella.
Sour Cream & Chives– A timeless combo that’s fresh, tangy, and creamy all in one bite.
Loaded Bacon & Cheese– Add crumbled bacon, cheddar, and a dollop of sour cream for the ultimate comfort food.
Veggie Supreme– Pile on roasted veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli for a colorful, hearty, and wholesome option.
Chili & Cheese– Spoon hot chili over your baked potato, then top with shredded cheese for a warming, filling meal.

What To Eat With Jacket Potatoes

Jacket potatoes are hearty and filling on their own, but pairing them with the right sides or mains can turn them into a complete and satisfying meal. Whether you’re serving them as a light lunch, a family dinner, or part of a buffet spread, here are some delicious options to enjoy alongside baked potatoes:

Grilled or Roasted Meats– Pair your potato with roasted chicken, steak, or grilled fish for a balanced and protein-packed meal.
Salads– A crisp side salad with greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers offers a refreshing contrast to the warm, fluffy potato.
Soup & Potato Combo– Serve jacket potatoes with hearty soups like tomato basil, minestrone, or broccoli cheddar for a cozy pairing.
Roasted Vegetables– Oven-roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans add extra texture and nutrition.
Coleslaw– Creamy or tangy coleslaw provides a cool, crunchy balance to the potato’s richness.

How Long Do They Last?

Cooked jacket potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.

Reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot and crisp, or in the microwave if you’re short on time (though the skins won’t stay as crisp).

Can You Freeze Them?

Yes, you can freeze jacket potatoes, but there are a few things to keep in mind for the best results. Once the potatoes are baked and completely cooled, wrap them individually in foil or plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the potatoes in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in the oven to help restore their crisp skin and fluffy inside.

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