Description
Loaded Potatoes feature fluffy baked russet potatoes topped with melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, sour cream, green onions, and butter. This classic American comfort food serves as a hearty side dish or a satisfying main, delivering a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Toppings
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup sour cream
- ¼ cup sliced green onions
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (204°C) to prepare for baking the potatoes.
- Prepare the Potatoes: Scrub the russet potatoes clean and dry them thoroughly. Rub each potato with olive oil and season evenly with kosher salt and black pepper.
- Bake the Potatoes: Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or a baking sheet. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a fork easily pierces the potato, indicating they are tender inside.
- Slice and Fluff: Remove the potatoes from the oven and, using a knife, slice each one lengthwise. Use a fork to fluff the inside flesh, creating a soft base for the toppings.
- Add Butter and Cheese: Place butter inside each potato and sprinkle generously with shredded cheddar cheese. Return to the oven for 3 to 5 minutes to melt the cheese thoroughly.
- Top and Serve: Remove baked potatoes from the oven and top with crumbled bacon, sour cream, sliced green onions, and optional chopped fresh chives. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Add shredded barbecue chicken or chili to the toppings for a heartier, complete meal.
- Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese, not pre-shredded, for better melting and texture.
- Leftover baked potatoes reheat well in the oven or an air fryer, maintaining their crisp skin and fluffy inside.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
