Classic Baked Potato with Salmon

Name: Classic Baked Potato with Salmon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 large russet potatoes; Olive oil; Salt; 2 salmon fillets; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon dried dill; Salt and pepper to taste; Sour cream; Chives; Shredded cheese

Highlighted under: Lean & Light Cooking

I’ve always loved the comforting appeal of a perfectly baked potato, and pairing it with succulent salmon elevates this dish to a whole new level. The crispy skin and fluffy interior of the potato are the perfect canvas for rich, flaky salmon that’s loaded with flavor. This recipe combines some basic ingredients to create an impressive meal that’s both delicious and satisfying. Whether it’s for a quiet dinner at home or an occasion with friends, this baked potato with salmon is sure to impress and delight anyone at your table.

Created by

Tina

Last updated on 2026-02-07T14:48:24.181Z

As I developed this recipe, I wanted to prioritize simplicity without compromising flavor. The key is in the baking technique—preheating the oven to give the potatoes a perfect crispy skin is essential. I’ve also learned that seasoning the salmon with dill and lemon really enhances its flavor, making every bite refreshing and appetizing.

Experimenting with toppings for the baked potato brought out the creative side of this dish. Sour cream, chives, or even a sprinkle of cheese can complement the salmon beautifully, making this simple meal feel gourmet. It's truly a dish that can be adapted to suit any occasion.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A delightful combination of crispy baked potato and tender salmon
Versatile toppings to customize your dish to your taste
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for weekday dinners

Choosing the Right Potatoes

For the ultimate baked potato experience, selecting the right variety of potato is crucial. Russet potatoes are the ideal choice due to their high starch content, which yields a light and fluffy interior. Ensure the potatoes are firm with no soft spots, signs of sprouting, or blemishes. If you're in a pinch, you could substitute with Yukon Gold potatoes, but you'll lose some of the signature fluffiness that russets provide.

It's vital to prepare your potatoes correctly to achieve that perfectly crispy skin. Poking holes into the skin with a fork not only allows steam to escape during baking but also contributes to that delightful crunchiness. I recommend using about 6-8 fork pricks on each potato for best results; this prevents them from bursting in the oven. Finally, using a high-quality olive oil adds flavor while aiding in the browning process.

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Salmon

Cooking salmon so that it is flaky but still moist can be a challenge. A medium heat setting is ideal for pan-searing salmon, as it allows for a nice golden crust without overcooking the inside. Keep an eye out for the salmon's color change; when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork, it's done. If you prefer a more intense flavor, consider marinating the salmon in the lemon juice and dill for 15-30 minutes prior to cooking.

Using a non-stick skillet or a well-seasoned cast-iron pan can significantly enhance your cooking experience. If you notice that the salmon is sticking, it might be helpful to let it cook longer before attempting to flip it; patience is key! If the salmon fillets are particularly thick, you may need to adjust cooking time slightly, extending it by 1-2 minutes per side.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a fulfilling meal.

For the Baked Potatoes

2 large russet potatoes
Olive oil
Salt

For the Salmon

2 salmon fillets
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried dill
Salt and pepper to taste

Toppings (optional)

Sour cream
Chives
Shredded cheese

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your classic baked potato with salmon.

Prepare the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and dry the russet potatoes thoroughly. Poke several holes in each potato using a fork to allow steam to escape. Rub each potato with a bit of olive oil and sprinkle with salt.

Bake the Potatoes

Place the prepared potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and a fork easily pierces the flesh.

Prepare the Salmon

While the potatoes bake, preheat a skillet over medium heat. Season the salmon fillets with lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper. Place the fillets in the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Assemble and Serve

Once the potatoes are done baking, cut them open and fluff the insides with a fork. Top with the cooked salmon fillets and any additional toppings you desire, such as sour cream, chives, or shredded cheese. Serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious classic baked potato with salmon!

Pro Tips

For extra crispy skin, bake the potatoes directly on the rack instead of a baking sheet. Feel free to get creative with toppings based on your preferences.

Serving Suggestions

While salmon and baked potatoes make a hearty meal on their own, consider adding a fresh salad or steamed vegetables as a vibrant side. A light citrus vinaigrette can complement the flavors beautifully, enhancing the overall dining experience. Alternatively, you can serve these baked potatoes as part of a buffet spread, where guests can customize their toppings, making it even more fun.

For a more elaborate dish, sprinkle some capers or a dollop of pesto over the salmon before serving. This not only adds flavor but also elevates the presentation, making your meal look as impressive as it tastes.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Those looking to streamline their weeknight dinners can prepare the baked potatoes in advance. Once their skins are crispy and the insides are fluffy, allow the potatoes to cool and then wrap them in foil. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes before adding the salmon and toppings.

As for leftover salmon, it's best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. You can serve it cold over a salad or gently reheat it to maintain a pleasant texture. Avoid microwaving for too long, as this can dry out the salmon; a low-temperature oven is preferable to preserve moisture and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of fish?

Yes, you can easily substitute salmon with other fish like trout or cod.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

Sour cream and fresh chives work wonderfully, but feel free to customize to your liking!

→ How can I tell if the salmon is cooked through?

Salmon is cooked through when it flakes easily with a fork and has lost its translucent look.

→ Can I make this in advance?

While the potatoes and salmon are best served fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and cook right before serving.