Description

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these loaded baked potatoes, perfect for chilly nights or casual gatherings. Fluffy russet potatoes are baked to perfection and generously topped with sharp cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, creamy sour cream, and fresh chives. This hearty dish is not only easy to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste preferences. Gather your friends and family, and enjoy this warm, satisfying meal that brings back fond memories of college days and late-night study sessions.

Ingredients

Scale

4 large russet potatoes
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
½ cup crispy bacon bits
2 tbsp chopped chives or green onions
4 tbsp butter

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Scrub the potatoes under cool water and dry them thoroughly.
Poke several holes into each potato with a fork to prevent bursting.
Rub each potato with olive oil and sprinkle evenly with salt.
Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or a baking sheet. Bake for 45-60 minutes until tender when squeezed.
Once cool enough to handle, slice open each potato lengthwise and fluff the insides with a fork.
Add butter first, then top with cheddar cheese, bacon bits, sour cream, chives, or any additional toppings desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 loaded baked potato (approximately 300g)
Calories: 550
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 930mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 63g
Fiber: 7g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: - For added flavor, experiment with various cheeses like pepper jack or feta. - Swap traditional sour cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter option. - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.