1-First Step: Wash and dry the potatoes Scrub each russet potato under running water to remove dirt from the skin. Pat the potatoes dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. This matters because clean, dry skin helps the oil and seasoning stick better. It also keeps the outer skin from steaming too much while it cooks.

2-Second Step: Poke holes for steam to escape Use a fork to prick each potato four or five times on each side. Make sure you do this all around the potato, not just in one spot. The holes let steam escape while the potato cooks, which helps prevent it from splitting in the microwave. This small step is one of the most important parts of making safe Microwave Potatoes.

3-Third Step: Season the potatoes Rub each potato with olive oil so the skin gets lightly coated. Then sprinkle on kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. You do not need a heavy coating, just enough to season the outside. If you like a little more flavor, you can add a pinch more pepper, but keep the base recipe simple if you want that classic baked potato taste.

4-Fourth Step: Arrange in a microwave-safe dish Place the potatoes in a microwave-safe dish with a little space between each one, if possible. This helps them cook more evenly. If you are making just one potato, the timing is a little faster. For two or more potatoes, the cook time stretches a bit, so plan for that when you are making a full meal.

5-Fifth Step: Microwave on full power Microwave the potatoes at full power for 5 minutes. This first round starts the cooking process and softens the interior. After that, flip the potatoes using a fork or tongs so the other side cooks evenly. Be careful, because the potatoes will already be hot.

6-Sixth Step: Finish cooking in short bursts After flipping, microwave for an additional 3 minutes if you are cooking one potato, or 5 minutes if you are cooking two or more. Then check the potatoes by gently piercing one with a fork. If the fork slides in easily, they are done. If they still feel firm in the center, keep microwaving in 1-minute bursts until tender.

7-Seventh Step: Remove safely and serve Use oven mitts to take the dish out of the microwave. The plate and potatoes may be very hot, so do not skip this step. Let the potatoes rest for a minute or two before cutting them open. Then fluff the inside with a fork and add your favorite toppings. You can keep it plain, or turn it into a full meal with beans, vegetables, or leftover protein.