Introduction:
Baked potatoes are the epitome of frugal comfort food. This recipe takes whole potatoes and transforms them into a delectable side dish. With a garlic herb butter infusion and a crispy skin, these Whole Baked Potatoes are the perfect pairing for any meal, all while being budget-friendly.
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional, for serving)
- Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Ensure the rack is placed in the middle of the oven.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
- Thoroughly wash and scrub the potatoes to remove any dirt or debris.
- Pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Using a fork, pierce each potato a few times to allow steam to escape during baking.
3. Make Garlic Herb Butter:
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and thyme leaves.
- Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and a dash of black pepper. Mix well.
4. Coat the Potatoes:
- Place each potato on a sheet of aluminum foil large enough to wrap it completely.
- Spread a generous tablespoon of the garlic herb butter mixture over the surface of each potato, ensuring it gets into the fork piercings.
- Wrap each potato tightly in the foil, sealing it securely.
5. Bake the Potatoes:
- Place the foil-wrapped potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet.
- Bake for approximately 1 hour or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Cooking times may vary depending on the size of your potatoes, so check them at the one-hour mark.
6. Garnish and Serve:
- Carefully unwrap each potato from its foil.
- Garnish with freshly chopped chives for a burst of color and additional flavor.
- Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt if desired.
7. Enjoy!
- These Whole Baked Potatoes with Garlic Herb Butter are the perfect combination of simplicity and flavor. They’re budget-friendly and make an excellent side dish for any occasion. The crispy skin and soft, fluffy interior, infused with the aromatic garlic and herbs, will have everyone coming back for more. Enjoy!
These whole baked potatoes are a delightful and budget-conscious addition to any meal. The garlic herb butter adds a touch of luxury to this classic comfort food without breaking the bank.