Get ready to transform the humble potato into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have your taste buds dancing with joy! These Cheesy Loaded Baked Potatoes aren't just a side dish - they're a culinary adventure that combines crispy potato skins, melted cheese, crisp bacon, and creamy sour cream into one irresistible package. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or satisfy a serious comfort food craving, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 60 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large baking potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Wash the potatoes thoroughly under cool running water, scrubbing away any dirt with a vegetable brush.
- Pat the potatoes dry with paper towels and pierce each potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Rub each potato with olive oil and sprinkle generously with salt and pepper, ensuring the entire skin is evenly coated.
- Place the potatoes directly on the middle oven rack and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and a fork can easily pierce the center.
- While potatoes are baking, cook bacon in a skillet until crisp. Drain on paper towels and crumble into small bits.
- Once potatoes are done, remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes to cool slightly.
- Carefully slice each potato lengthwise down the middle, gently squeeze the sides to open and create a fluffy interior.
- Top each potato with shredded cheddar cheese, allowing the residual heat to melt the cheese.
- Add a dollop of sour cream, sprinkle with bacon bits and sliced green onions.
- Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the fully loaded baked potatoes.
Tips
- Choose the right potatoes: Large, starchy baking potatoes like Russet work best for this recipe, ensuring a fluffy interior and crispy skin.
- Don't skip the olive oil and salt rub: This creates a deliciously crispy exterior that adds incredible texture to your potatoes.
- Ensure your bacon is extra crispy: Crumble it finely for the best distribution of flavor and crunch.
- Let potatoes rest briefly after baking: This allows the interior to settle and makes them easier to handle.
- Serve immediately: Loaded baked potatoes are best enjoyed hot, with the cheese still melting and the toppings fresh.
- Get creative with toppings: While this recipe is classic, feel free to experiment with additional ingredients like chives, jalapeños, or different cheese blends.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 55mg
