There is just something special about the smell of potatoes baking in the oven, right? That amazing smell wafting throughout the kitchen, the thought of that first bite—it’s just comforting! Today, I am sharing a recipe that is easy and delicious: Easy Half Baked Potatoes. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, cooking up a casual dinner, or just craving something hearty, this dish is your go-to. It’s simple, versatile, and packed with flavor. Why go for fully baked when you can enjoy the best of both worlds—crispy edges with a creamy, tender center?
I first encountered half-baked potatoes at a family brunch a few weekends ago. My husband, who typically eats meat-and-potatoes meals, can’t stop raving about them. The best thing about this recipe is the simplicity of it all. No special ingredients or skills are needed; just a few items from your pantry and a bit of time. And, you’ll have this glorious dish with a golden crispy exterior and soft, rich interior.
What I find so appealing about Easy Half Baked Potatoes are their versatility. They can easily be served as a side, or become the main dish served with a side salad, or a decadent sauce. Plus, they’re a great way to use up leftover potatoes. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this recipe scales beautifully. It’s one of those dishes that feels indulgent without being heavy—a win-win in my book.
So, why should you try this recipe? There is easy to make. Even if you are not the most skilled cook, you are likely to pull it off, the first time out. It is also easily customized. Want to add a cheesy element, go for it. Prefer some heat, you can add paprika or hot pepper flakes. The adaptations are endless, and this is what makes it fun to play with.
Ultimately, you will enjoy the Easy Half Baked Potatoes for its flavor. The crispy skin and soft flesh will be a game-changer for meals! It is indulgent enough to be hearty without being heavy. I mean come on, get in the kitchen and preheat your oven! This is a recipe that you will use, before you know it, regularly.
Why This Easy Half Baked Potatoes Recipe
Now that we have established why you should make this recipe, let’s recap a couple things here. The whole idea is easy. You really do not have to do much. Just a few ingredients and even less prep time, and you have a dish that looks and tastes very impressive and looks like it took a lot of time. The combination of olive oil, sea salt, and rosemary produce a rustic and refined flavor. It is comfort food at the top end with deep flavor potential.
The other standout is the texture. When you bake the potatoes halfway, you end up with the best of both worlds- a crispy outside and fluffy fluffy soft inside. It is the right balance of crunch and creamy. The best part of this recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. You can easily add and change herbs, cheeses or spices that you want to try.
While the possibilities are endless, you can use this dish as a side with grilled meats, a salad, or just by itself with a dollop of sour cream! It’s a recipe that works for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to fancy brunches. And don’t forget, it’s a great way to use up leftover potatoes, so it’s as practical as it is delicious.
Finally, Easy Half Baked Potatoes are a hit with everyone. If you’re making this dish for picky eaters or adventurous eaters, it’s sure to be a hit. It’s hearty, flavorful, and indulgent enough to feel special, but also easy enough that you’ll make it a regular! Why not give it a go? It could become your new favorite way to eat potatoes!
The Story Behind Easy Half Baked Potatoes
This recipe has a special place in my heart—and my kitchen. It all started one lazy Sunday morning when I was hosting brunch for a group of close friends. I had a bag of potatoes sitting on the counter, and I wanted to make something different. That’s when I thought of half-baked potato. I thought why not do something crispy on the outside and soft on the inside?
The moment the potatoes were baking, the aroma in the kitchen was amazing! When I pulled them out of the oven they looked golden with the perfect crisp. My friends devoured them. I remember one friend even saying, “these are the best potatoes I have ever had!” That really made me know this is a recipe worth making again!
Since then, Easy Half Baked Potatoes have become a staple in my home. My husband loves their hearty texture and they are also a dish I tend to prepare when entertaining my friends and families. My favorite thing about this recipe is how versatile it is! Whether it is served as a side dish or as the star of the meal, you will be happy you made them.
If you’re searching for a super simple, super delicious and super impressive dish, you can stop your search right now. Easy Half Baked Potatoes are the bomb! These potatoes are the kind of dish that you actually want to share with people—and isn’t that the point of cooking?
What You Will Need For Easy Half Baked Potatoes
- 4 medium-sized potatoes (best selection are Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or herb of your choice)
Tips For Easy Half Baked Potatoes
For best results, pick potatoes that are as similar in size as possible so they will cook evenly together. Be careful not to overcrowd the baking sheet. You want to give the potatoes some elbow room to allow for better crisping. If you are really short on time, you could even par boil the potatoes for a few minutes as a way to quicken the baking time. Finally, do not hesitate to get creative with the spices. Thyme, garlic powder, or smoked paprika would all work just fine!
Substitutions and Variations
If you don’t have olive oil, you can use melted butter or avocado oil. If you want a cheesy option, during the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan on the potatoes. If you want to punch up the flavor, dice some garlic and mix with the potatoes before baking, or toss in a dash of hot sauce. You can also swap the rosemary for other herbs like oregano, basil or others. The options are endless!
Make a Healthier Version
To make this recipe healthier you can use less oil or substitute it with cooking spray. You can also just remove the salt, and use salt-free seasoning instead. If you are wanting a low-carb option, consider subbing the potatoes for sweet potatoes or cauliflower. What a great way to take a classic dish, and create a lighter, cardboard version!
Closing For Easy Half Baked Potatoes
And there you have it! Easy Half Baked Potatoes – a dish that is simple, adaptable, and undeniably delicious. Don’t forget to tell us how your dish turned out and check out more of our recipes! Happy eating!
Easy Half Baked Potatoes
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with Half Baked Potatoes. Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and loaded with savory toppings, these decadent spuds are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Perfect for a cozy night in or a festive party!
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, wash the potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry with a clean towel. Cut the potatoes in half lengthwise and place them on a baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over the potato halves, making sure they’re evenly coated. Then, sprinkle them with sea salt, black pepper, and rosemary.
-
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden and crispy on the outside but still tender on the inside. Once they’re done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. That’s it—your Easy Half Baked Potatoes are ready to enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 908.91kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 28.85g45%
- Saturated Fat 4.12g21%
- Sodium 2377.61mg100%
- Potassium 3615.22mg104%
- Total Carbohydrate 150.19g51%
- Dietary Fiber 19.29g78%
- Sugars 6.66g
- Protein 17.42g35%
- Vitamin C 167.91 mg
- Calcium 114.1 mg
- Iron 7.05 mg
- Vitamin E 4.13 mg
- Vitamin K 36.32 mcg
- Thiamin 0.68 mg
- Riboflavin 0.28 mg
- Niacin 9 mg
- Vitamin B6 2.52 mg
- Folate 136.97 mcg
- Pantothenic Acid 2.54 mg
- Phosphorus 488.87 mg
- Magnesium 199.66 mg
- Zinc 2.5 mg
- Selenium 2.66 mcg
- Copper 0.95 mg
- Manganese 1.57 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
