Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Wash the potatoes thoroughly under running water and scrub off any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
If desired, prick each potato several times with a fork or knife to allow steam to escape during baking. This helps prevent the potatoes from bursting.
Optionally, coat each potato with cooking oil. Place the potatoes in a mixing bowl, drizzle with oil, and toss to coat evenly. This step helps to achieve a crispy exterior.
Sprinkle the potatoes generously with salt and black pepper, if using. The seasoning will add flavor to the potatoes as they bake.
Arrange the seasoned potatoes on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each potato to ensure even cooking.
Bake the potatoes in the preheated oven for 45 to 60 minutes, or until they are tender and the skins are crispy and golden brown.
To test for doneness, insert a fork or knife into the center of a potato. If it slides in easily with little resistance, the potatoes are ready.
Once baked, remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serve the crispy baked potatoes hot, topped with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped chives, or bacon bits.
Enjoy your delicious crispy baked potatoes as a side dish or snack!