Ultimate Loaded Baked Potato Recipe You’ll Love (Easy!)

There’s something truly magical about a loaded baked potato. Picture this: a fluffy, tender potato, skin perfectly crisped, just waiting to be filled with all your favorite toppings. The aroma wafts through the air, teasing your senses and promising a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. This isn’t just a side dish; it’s a canvas for culinary creativity.

Imagine gathering around the dinner table with friends and family, the conversation flowing as everyone’s eyes light up at the sight of these glorious potatoes piled high with cheese, sour cream, bacon bits, and chives. Loaded baked potatoes are not just food; they’re an experience, perfect for game nights, cozy dinners, or even just satisfying that late-night craving.

I once made loaded baked potatoes for a family gathering and witnessed my uncle’s eyes widen in pure delight as he topped his off with extra cheese. He still talks about that night!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Russet Potatoes: These are best for baking due to their fluffy interiors; choose medium-sized ones for even cooking.

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar for that extra punch of flavor; it melts beautifully over hot potatoes.

• Sour Cream: Use full-fat sour cream for creaminess; it balances out the richness of the cheese and bacon.

• Bacon Bits: Cook your bacon until crispy for the best crunch; you can use store-bought or homemade.

• Chives: Fresh chives add color and a mild onion flavor; snip them right before serving for best results.

• Butter: A generous pat of butter adds richness; don’t skip it!

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors; use freshly cracked pepper if possible.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cooking loaded baked potatoes is like crafting a masterpiece—every step counts!

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures that your potatoes will bake evenly and develop that desired crispy skin.

Prepare the Potatoes: Scrub each russet potato under running water until clean. Pat them dry with a towel and pierce each one several times with a fork to allow steam to escape while baking.

Bake Until Perfectly Tender: Place the prepared potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for 45-60 minutes until fork-tender. You’ll know they’re done when they yield easily when pressed.

Add Toppings Galore!: Once baked, remove them from the oven (remember those hot pads!). Slice each potato open lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Fluff the insides with a fork.

Load ‘Em Up!: Add butter first—let it melt into those fluffy interiors—followed by shredded cheddar cheese so it gets nice and melty. Then top with crispy bacon bits, sour cream, and fresh chives.

Season to Perfection: Finally, sprinkle salt and pepper over everything to enhance those flavors; serve immediately while they’re still warm and gooey!

Now you have delicious loaded baked potatoes ready to impress anyone who dares take a bite! Enjoy every cheesy morsel!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve perfectly baked potatoes, start by preheating your oven to 425°F. Scrub the potatoes well, then poke holes in them. Bake for about 45-60 minutes until they’re tender and fluffy inside.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to unleash your creativity! Swap cheddar cheese for blue cheese, add crispy bacon bits or drizzle some sour cream for extra creaminess. The possibilities are endless!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover loaded baked potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, microwave them covered with a damp paper towel until heated through.

Sharing my love for loaded baked potatoes began during a chilly family gathering when everyone raved about their gooey goodness topped with everything from guacamole to chili.

FAQ

What type of potato is best for loaded baked potato?

Russet potatoes are ideal due to their fluffy texture when baked.

Can I load my baked potato ahead of time?

Yes, prepare toppings separately and add them just before serving for freshness.

How can I make my loaded baked potato healthier?

Opt for Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and add plenty of veggies as toppings.

Print

Loaded Baked Potatoes

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• Author: Ethan Brooks
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Loaded baked potatoes are the ultimate comfort food that combines a fluffy interior with crispy skin, topped with your favorite fixings. This recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize each potato to satisfy your cravings. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, these loaded baked potatoes promise a delightful explosion of flavor in every bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 medium russet potatoes
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup full-fat sour cream
• 1/2 cup crispy bacon bits
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
• 4 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Scrub and dry the russet potatoes; pierce each with a fork.
3. Bake directly on the oven rack for 45-60 minutes until tender.
4. Remove from oven and slice open lengthwise; fluff the insides with a fork.
5. Add butter, then top with cheese, bacon bits, sour cream, and chives.
6. Season with salt and pepper before serving warm.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 loaded baked potato (250g)
• Calories: 540
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 920mg
• Fat: 34g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 49g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: For added flavor, sprinkle salt on the potato skins before baking. Customize toppings by adding ingredients like blue cheese or sautéed vegetables for a healthier twist.