Savory Loaded Baked Potatoes are a family favorite in my home and the fact that this recipe is so simple makes my busy work life THAT much easier as it does not take long to prep! This is a naturally gluten free dinner recipe that is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or even as lunch. Loaded Baked Potatoes contain potatoes stacked high with cheddar, salt and pepper, crispy bacon, sour cream, and chives – the ultimate comfort food splurge!
I really love this recipe. I grew up with fond memories eating baked potatoes topped with butter and pepper and this version is the loaded version of one of my childhood favorites. You can’t go wrong when bacon, cheese, and potatoes are involved. I love how my picky five year old daughter enjoys this dinner recipe as much as my husband and I!
If you’re a fan of potatoes, then you’ll love my Loaded Smashed Potatoes, Potato Taquitos, Funeral Potatoes, and Potato Salad recipes.
What are the Best Toppings on Baked Potatoes?
The best baked potato toppings include sour cream, butter, melted freshly grated cheddar, bacon, chives. If you’re going for vegetarian, omit the bacon. You can also top the baked potatoes with black beans mixed with corn and salsa for a zestier Southwestern baked potato. If you’re looking for savory yet simple, top with butter, salt, and pepper. Another option is to top your baked potato with sour cream and chives. Any way you top your baked potato, you’re destined to be pleased with the outcome. Potatoes are one of the tastiest foods on earth.
Ingredients in Loaded Baked Potatoes
Russet potatoes. Buy medium to large size Russet potatoes.
Cheddar cheese. Use freshly grated cheddar and avoid buying the pre-shredded cheese for optimal flavor.
Salt. Season with salt, to taste.
Pepper. Freshly cracked black pepper tastes best in this recipe.
Bacon. Cook the bacon ahead of time to expedite the cooking process.
Sour cream. Full fat sour cream is recommended for this recipe although low fat can be used (it won’t taste as creamy though).
Chives. A pinch of salt brings out the flavors of the rest of the ingredients.
How to make the best Loaded Baked Potatoes
STEP 1: Preheat oven to 450 degrees F/235 degrees C. Spray a baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray.
STEP 2: Wash the potatoes. Using a fork, poke holes all around the potatoes. Cover the potatoes with foil and bake until fork tender for 1 hour, 15 minutes.
STEP 3: Let the potatoes cool for about 5 minutes. Use a knife to cut each potato open. Top with ¼ cup cheddar cheese each. Bake for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
STEP 4: Season with salt and pepper. Top with the cooked bacon crumbles and ¼ cup sour cream per potato. Garnish with chives.
What does poking holes in the potatoes actually do?
Using a fork to poke holes in the potatoes before baking allows the steam to escape, which prevents them from exploding while baking. The holes also let heat into the potatoes, cooking them evenly and thoroughly.
More potato recipes you’ll love!
Black Bean Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Enchiladas
Copycat Cracker Barrel Hash Brown Casserole Recipe
Additional Topping Ideas
Beyond the loaded baked potato toppings of melted cheddar, sour cream, bacon, and chives, more mouthwatering baked potato combinations are listed below.
- Grated mozzarella, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped basil, salt, and pepper
- Pepperoni, grated mozzarella and parmesan, and chopped basil
- Grated pepper Jack cheese with pickled jalapeños
- Butter, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, shredded Iceberg lettuce
- Grilled chicken, sour cream, green enchilada sauce, cilantro, lime wedges
- Shredded pepper Jack cheese with crumbled Italian sausage
- Black beans, sliced avocado, chopped radish, salt, and pepper
Final Thoughts
Finally, if you make these Loaded Baked Potatoes, be sure to leave a comment and/or give this recipe a rating! I love to hear from everyone who makes this recipe and always try my best to respond to all comments.
If you do make this recipe, don’t forget to tag #elisemccollister on Instagram! It makes me so happy to see your recipe photos!
Loaded Baked Potatoes
Equipment
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450° F. Spray a baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray.
- Wash the potatoes. Using a fork, poke holes all around the potatoes. Cover the potatoes with foil and bake until fork tender for 1 hour, 15 minutes.
- Let the potatoes cool for about 5 minutes. Use a knife to cut each potato open. Top with ¼ cup cheddar cheese each. Bake for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
- Season with salt and pepper. Top with the cooked bacon crumbles and ¼cup sour cream per potato. Garnish with chives.
Nutrition (per serving)
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