Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). I like to lightly coat my baking dish with olive oil cooking spray to make sure the potatoes don’t stick. This step is simple but makes cleanup so much easier.
Place the potatoes in your prepared baking dish and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle sea salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and garlic powder over them. I usually toss them gently with my hands to make sure each potato is evenly coated.
Roast the potatoes in the oven for 20–25 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. I always check by poking a potato with a fork; if it slides in easily, they’re ready. The skins should be slightly crisp while the insides stay soft.
Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Make a slit across the top of each potato and gently pinch the ends toward the middle. I like to add a small knob of butter, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh chives for a beautiful, flavorful finish.
Serve your mini baked potatoes while they’re still warm. I find that they taste best fresh from the oven with melted butter and sour cream, but they can be adapted to hold toppings like cheese, bacon bits, or even a dollop of guacamole.