Crispy Jacket Potato | How to Get That Perfect Crunchy Skin Every Time

Introduction: The Secret to the Ultimate Jacket Potato

A perfectly baked jacket potato should have two things: a soft, fluffy centre and a skin that’s golden, crisp, and crackling with flavour. While the microwave is quick and easy, nothing beats the texture and taste of a traditional oven-baked jacket potato with crispy skin. With just a few simple steps, you can turn this humble spud into the star of the plate.

Why You’ll Love Crispy Jacket Potatoes

🥔 Golden, Crunchy Skin – The highlight of any proper baked spud
🌱 Simple Ingredients – Just potatoes, oil, and salt
👌 Naturally Gluten-Free & Vegan – Suits all kinds of diets
🍽️ Versatile Meal Base – Top with anything from beans to beef chilli

Ingredients

2 large baking potatoes (e.g. Maris Piper or King Edward)
1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
Sea salt or kosher salt
Optional: garlic powder, rosemary, or paprika for extra flavour

How to Make the Perfect Crispy Jacket Potato – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Heat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan) / 400°F / Gas mark 6

Step 2: Prep the Potatoes

Scrub the potatoes clean and dry them thoroughly
Prick a few holes with a fork to allow steam to escape
Rub the skins all over with oil or butter
Sprinkle generously with salt (and any extra seasonings if using)

Step 3: Bake

Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or a baking tray with a wire rack
Bake for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, depending on size
Turn once halfway through for even crisping
The skins should be golden, crisp, and firm to the touch; the insides soft when pierced

Step 4: Fluff and Serve

Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes
Slice open and fluff the inside with a fork
Add your favourite toppings and enjoy immediately

Topping Ideas for Crispy Jacket Potatoes

Classic: Butter, cheddar cheese, baked beans
Light: Greek yogurt, chopped chives, or cottage cheese
Hearty: Chilli con carne, pulled pork, or leftover roast chicken
Veggie: Hummus, roasted peppers, avocado, or coleslaw
Loaded: Sour cream, crispy bacon, spring onions, and jalapeños

Tips for Extra-Crispy Skin

Don’t wrap in foil — it traps moisture and softens the skin
Baking directly on the oven rack improves airflow and crispness
Rub with coarse salt for added crunch and flavour
Let potatoes dry fully before oiling — moisture = steam = softer skins

Time-Saving Option

Start in the microwave: Microwave the potato for 5–6 minutes, then transfer to a hot oven (220°C) for 25–30 minutes to crisp up the skin faster

Storage & Reheating

Store cooled jacket potatoes in the fridge for up to 3 days
Reheat in the oven at 180°C for 15–20 minutes to restore crispness
Avoid microwaving leftovers unless you’re not fussed about soft skin

Conclusion

Crispy jacket potatoes are a simple pleasure — crackly on the outside, pillowy on the inside, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re serving them as a side or piling them high with toppings as a main, this easy method delivers maximum flavour and crunch every time.