Quick Baked Potatoes
Deliciously quick baked potatoes with buttery, cheesy, and paprika-topped flavor. Perfect for a hearty, satisfying meal or side dish that comes together in just about 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cut each potato in half lengthwise.
- Brush the cut sides of the potatoes with melted butter.
- Sprinkle the buttered sides with paprika, salt, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Place the potatoes cut side down on a well oiled baking sheet.
- Sprinkle salt on the skin side of each potato.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker bake, you can microwave the potatoes for 5-7 minutes before transferring them to the oven. If you're out of Parmesan, grated cheddar or feta can make great substitutes. To enhance the flavor, consider adding garlic powder or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the butter before brushing it on the potatoes. This dish pairs beautifully with Chicken Salad Shells for a delightful meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these baked potatoes topped with a dollop of sour cream, chives, or crispy bacon bits for extra flavor. They make an excellent side dish for grilled meats or roasted vegetables. For a complete meal, consider pairing them with a fresh salad or browse more American recipes for additional ideas to complement your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for a quicker option, but the oven will keep the skins crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Baked Potatoes contains roughly 70 calories, with 6g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 658mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use smaller potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use smaller potatoes, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Smaller potatoes may take around 20-25 minutes to bake, so keep an eye on them to ensure they don't overcook.
What if I don’t have melted butter?
If you don't have melted butter, olive oil or melted coconut oil can be used as a substitute. They will add a different flavor profile but will still ensure the potatoes crisp up nicely.
Can I make these potatoes in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the potatoes in advance by cutting and seasoning them. Store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just place them in the oven without needing to let them come to room temperature.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).