At what temperature and for how long should potatoes be baked?

Baking potatoes properly is essential for achieving the desired texture and flavor. The recommended temperature of 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal for ensuring that potatoes cook evenly, developing a soft interior while the skin becomes crisp. This range allows the heat to penetrate the potatoes without cooking them too quickly, which can lead to an undercooked center.

Baking for 1 hour at this temperature range ensures that the heat has sufficient time to reach the center of the potato, giving it time to cook through thoroughly. It also allows the natural sugars in the potato to caramelize slightly, enhancing flavor. The skin also helps to lock in moisture, preventing the potato from drying out during the cooking process.

Comparatively, the other temperature and time combinations either do not provide enough cooking duration or temperature, which may lead to undercooked potatoes or an undesirably tough texture. Baked potatoes are best enjoyed when they are fluffy on the inside, which is most reliably achieved with the given conditions of 1 hour at 350-400 degrees.