How Long to Bake Potato at 350°F: Perfect Timing Guide

A medium-sized russet potato requires 60-75 minutes to bake thoroughly at 350°F. The exact time depends on potato size, variety, and oven accuracy, with larger potatoes needing up to 90 minutes for perfect results.

Perfectly baked potatoes shouldn't be a guessing game. When you're preparing dinner and need reliable timing at 350°F, knowing exactly how long to bake your potato prevents undercooked centers or dry, overdone exteriors. This guide delivers precise timing based on potato size, clear doneness indicators, and professional techniques that guarantee fluffy interiors every time—no more poking and hoping.

Why 350°F Is the Sweet Spot for Baking Potatoes

Baking at 350°F provides more control than higher temperatures, reducing the risk of burnt exteriors with raw centers. This moderate heat allows starches to fully gelatinize while moisture evaporates evenly. According to the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service, maintaining consistent oven temperatures between 325°F-375°F ensures thorough cooking while preserving nutrients.

Potato Size & Timing Guide at 350°F

Potato Size	Weight Range	Recommended Baking Time	Internal Temp
Small	5-7 oz (140-200g)	45-55 minutes	205°F-210°F
Medium	8-10 oz (225-280g)	60-75 minutes	208°F-212°F
Large	11-14 oz (310-400g)	75-90 minutes	210°F-215°F

This fact comparison table reflects data collected from Cornell University Food Science Department experiments tracking 200 potatoes baked at precise temperatures. Note that Russet potatoes generally require 10-15% more time than Yukon Golds at the same temperature due to denser starch composition.

Step-by-Step Baking Process at 350°F

Preparation: The Critical First Step

Scrub potatoes thoroughly under cold water using a vegetable brush. Prick each potato 6-8 times with a fork to allow steam to escape—this prevents bursting. Contrary to popular belief, skipping the oil rub at this stage yields fluffier results as moisture evaporates more efficiently from the skin.

Placement and Timing Strategy

Place potatoes directly on the middle oven rack with a baking sheet on the lower rack to catch any drips. For even cooking:

• Rotate potatoes 180 degrees at the halfway point
• Avoid overcrowding—maintain 1-inch spacing between potatoes
• Use an oven thermometer to verify actual temperature

Doneness Checkpoints

At 350°F, potatoes progress through distinct stages:

1. 45 minutes: Outer 1/4 inch cooked, center still raw
2. 60 minutes: Halfway cooked, firm center
3. 75 minutes: Fully cooked for medium potatoes
4. 90 minutes: Maximum time before drying begins

How to Confirm Perfect Doneness

Don't rely solely on timing—use these verification methods:

Visual and Tactile Indicators

• Skin appears slightly wrinkled with golden-brown patches
• Gentle squeeze yields slightly (use oven mitts!)
• Instant-read thermometer inserted into center reads 208°F-212°F

The Fork Test

Insert a fork into the thickest part. It should slide in with no resistance and potatoes should feel uniformly soft throughout. If you encounter resistance in the center, return to oven for additional 10-minute increments.

When 350°F Works Best (And When It Doesn't)

Understanding context boundaries helps you choose the right temperature:

• Ideal for: Large batches, convection ovens, delicate fillings, or when using older ovens with temperature fluctuations
• Less effective for: Single potatoes (use 400°F for faster cooking), crispy skin enthusiasts, or when time-constrained

Food science research from the America's Test Kitchen shows that baking below 325°F risks incomplete starch conversion, resulting in gluey textures, while temperatures above 400°F cause rapid moisture loss before centers fully cook.

Avoid These Common Baking Mistakes

Mistake #1: Wrapping in Foil from Start

While convenient, foil traps moisture creating steamed potatoes rather than baked. For authentic texture, only wrap potatoes in foil during the last 15-20 minutes if needed to prevent over-browning.

Mistake #2: Ignoring Potato Variety Differences

Russets need 15-20% more time than sweet potatoes at 350°F due to higher starch content. Always adjust timing based on variety—this is the #1 frustration point identified in Cooking Science Guy's survey of 1,200 home cooks.

Mistake #3: Cutting Immediately After Baking

Allow potatoes to rest for 5-7 minutes after baking. This lets internal steam redistribute, preventing soggy interiors when sliced open.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results Every Time

• Temperature verification: Use an independent oven thermometer—most built-in thermostats vary by 25°F+
• Preheating matters: Always preheat oven for 20 minutes before baking
• Size consistency: Bake similar-sized potatoes together for uniform results
• Moisture boost: Lightly mist potatoes with water during the last 15 minutes for extra-fluffy interiors

Safety and Storage Guidelines

Follow USDA food safety recommendations:

• Never leave baked potatoes at room temperature longer than 2 hours
• Store leftovers in airtight containers within 2 hours of baking
• Reheat to internal temperature of 165°F before serving
• Discard potatoes with green spots or sprouts

Can I bake multiple potatoes at 350°F at the same time?

Yes, you can bake multiple potatoes at 350°F simultaneously. Maintain at least 1 inch of space between potatoes for proper air circulation. Baking time remains the same regardless of quantity, but rotate the pan halfway through for even cooking.

Why is my potato still hard after 75 minutes at 350°F?

Several factors could cause this: your oven might run cooler than indicated (use an independent thermometer), the potato could be unusually large or dense, or you might be checking too soon after removing from oven. Return to oven in 10-minute increments until a thermometer reads 208°F-212°F at the center.

Should I oil potatoes before baking at 350°F?

For the crispiest skin, rub with oil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking rather than at the beginning. Oil applied initially can trap moisture, preventing proper skin crisping. If you prefer softer skin, skip the oil entirely as the slower 350°F baking allows natural moisture to create perfect texture.

How do I prevent potatoes from drying out at 350°F?

To prevent drying: avoid exceeding 90 minutes baking time, don't wrap in foil from the start, and allow potatoes to rest 5-7 minutes after baking before cutting. Lightly misting with water during the last 15 minutes can also help maintain moisture balance for perfect fluffy interiors.