How to Make Perfect Baked Potatoes in Aluminium Foil

Baking potatoes wrapped in aluminium foil is a classic technique that produces fluffy, tender spuds with a perfectly crispy skin. Whether you're cooking them in the oven or on the grill, this method is quick, easy, and perfect for any meal.

Why Use Aluminium Foil for Baked Potatoes?

Wrapping potatoes in aluminium foil offers several benefits. It traps steam, keeping the potatoes moist and tender, which is ideal for those who love a fluffy interior. The foil also ensures even heat distribution, allowing larger potatoes to cook thoroughly.

Additionally, aluminium foil is versatile—foil-wrapped potatoes can be baked in the oven, grilled, or cooked over a campfire. This makes them perfect for barbecues, camping trips, or a cosy dinner at home.

How to Bake Potatoes in Aluminium Foil

Here’s a step-by-step guide to baking perfect potatoes wrapped in aluminium foil:

Ingredients:

• 4 large baking potatoes (such as russet potatoes)
• Olive oil or melted butter
• Salt and pepper
• Optional toppings: sour cream, chives, cheese, bacon bits

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). If using a grill, preheat to medium-high heat. Scrub the potatoes under cold running water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a clean towel. Poke a few holes in each potato with a fork—this allows steam to escape and prevents the potatoes from bursting during baking. Rub each potato with a little olive oil or melted butter, then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Wrap each potato in a sheet of aluminium foil, making sure to cover it completely but not too tightly. This will ensure that the steam can circulate inside the foil.

Place the wrapped potatoes directly on the oven rack or grill. Bake for about 45-60 minutes, depending on the size of the potatoes. To check if they’re done, gently squeeze a potato (with an oven mitt)—it should feel soft inside. You can also test by inserting a fork or skewer; it should slide in easily.
Carefully unwrap the potatoes and serve with your favorite toppings like sour cream, cheese, chives, or butter.

Tips for the Best Foil-Wrapped Baked Potatoes

If you prefer a crispier skin, unwrap the potatoes during the last 10-15 minutes of baking. This allows the skin to dry out a bit while keeping the inside fluffy. For best results, use heavy-duty aluminium foil. It’s less likely to tear and can withstand higher temperatures, especially if you’re using a grill. For an extra burst of flavor, try adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme inside the foil with the potatoes before baking. This will infuse the potatoes with a lovely aroma.

Baking potatoes in aluminium foil is a foolproof way to get perfect results every time, making it a favourite method for home cooks and grill enthusiasts alike.