Description
This Loaded Baked Potatoes recipe features perfectly baked russet potatoes topped with melting butter, sharp cheddar cheese, sour cream, and fresh chives. Customize with an array of delicious add-ons like steamed broccoli, grilled chicken or steak, sautéed mushrooms, black beans, chili, or crumbled sausage for a hearty and versatile meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Toppings
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped chives or green onions
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Steamed broccoli (optional)
- Grilled chicken or steak, diced (optional)
- Sautéed mushrooms (optional)
- Black beans or chili (optional)
- Crumbled turkey or beef sausage (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the potatoes thoroughly, then pat them dry. Prick each potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Season and bake: Rub each potato evenly with olive oil and sprinkle all over with kosher salt. Place the potatoes on a baking sheet or directly on the oven rack. Bake for 45–60 minutes, or until the skin is crisp and a fork inserts easily into the center.
- Prepare toppings: While the potatoes bake, prepare your desired toppings. Grate the sharp cheddar cheese, chop the chives or green onions, and cook any protein or vegetable toppings such as chicken, steak, mushrooms, or sausage.
- Slice and fluff: When baked, carefully cut a slit down the center of each potato. Gently squeeze the ends to open them up, then use a fork to fluff the insides, creating a light and airy texture.
- Assemble: Add a pat of unsalted butter to each potato, allowing it to melt into the fluffy interior. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top so it melts as well. Add sour cream and chopped chives, then finish with salt and pepper to taste. Top with optional ingredients like steamed broccoli, grilled meats, sautéed mushrooms, black beans, chili, or crumbled sausage as desired.
Notes
- Ensure russet potatoes are well scrubbed to remove dirt before baking.
- Pricking potatoes with a fork prevents them from bursting in the oven.
- Baking directly on the oven rack helps crisp the skin.
- Toppings can be customized to your preference or dietary needs.
- Leftover baked potatoes can be refrigerated and reheated for quick meals.
