How Long to Bake a Potato at 425°F

Baked potato 425 timing

For a baked potato at 425°F, plan on 45–55 minutes for a medium russet and 55–70 minutes for a large russet. Exact timing depends on the potato’s thickness, starting temperature, and how accurately your oven runs. Begin checking at the shorter time, especially if the potatoes are similar in size. Potatoes are ready when the centers feel completely soft, not merely warm.

Prepare the potatoes

Scrub the russets under cool running water and dry them thoroughly. Pierce each potato several times with a fork so steam can escape during baking. For crisp skin, rub the outside lightly with oil and sprinkle with salt. Skip wrapping them in foil if you want the skin to stay crisp; foil traps moisture and gives it a softer texture.

• Use similarly sized potatoes for more even timing.
• Dry skin well before adding oil and salt.

Bake directly on the rack or a sheet

Place the prepared potatoes directly on the oven rack for airflow and a drier, crisper skin. Put a baking sheet on the rack below if you want to catch any drips. Alternatively, set the potatoes on a sheet pan for easier handling and cleanup. Leave space between them so hot air can circulate.

• Bake at 425°F; preheating gives the most consistent result.
• Turn the potatoes once if your oven browns unevenly.

How to test doneness

The most reliable cue is a soft center. Slide a thin knife or skewer into the thickest part of the potato; it should pass through with almost no resistance. You can also gently squeeze it with an oven mitt—it should yield easily. If the center still feels firm, return the potato to the oven for 5–10 minutes and test again.

Rest, split, and serve

Let the potatoes rest for about 5 minutes, then cut a slit across the top and gently squeeze the ends to open them. Fluff the inside with a fork before adding butter, sour cream, cheese, herbs, or another topping. If serving several potatoes, keep their sizes close so they finish at roughly the same time.