Ultimate Loaded Baked Potato
Who doesn’t love a hearty and indulgent loaded baked potato? This recipe takes the classic baked potato to a whole new level with all the fixings you can imagine. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a crowd-pleasing side dish for gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- Scrub the potatoes clean and pierce them with a fork in a few places.
- Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until they are soft and can be easily pierced with a knife.
- Once the potatoes are cooked, carefully cut a slit in the top and fluff up the insides with a fork.
- Top each potato with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, bacon, and season with salt and pepper.
- Place the loaded baked potatoes back in the oven for 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition Information:
– Calories: 450
– Fat: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 50g
– Protein: 15g
Popular questions:
- What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?
- Can I make this dish vegetarian?
- How can I make the potatoes crispier?
- Can I prepare these potatoes in advance?
You can substitute cheddar cheese with any other type of cheese that melts well, such as mozzarella or Colby Jack.
Yes, you can omit the bacon or use a plant-based alternative to make this recipe vegetarian.
You can brush the potato skins with olive oil before baking to make them crispier.
You can partially bake the potatoes ahead of time and then finish them off in the oven with the toppings when ready to serve.
Helpful tips:
- Try adding different toppings like diced tomatoes, avocado, or jalapenos for a unique twist.
- For a healthier option, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite combination.
Expert Secrets:
- Brushing the potato skins with olive oil before baking can help them become crispy and flavorful.
- For extra flavor, try seasoning the inside of the potato with garlic powder or paprika before adding the toppings.