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Cozy Loaded Baked Potato Bar Recipe with Classic Toppings

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A simple and comforting loaded baked potato bar with classic toppings like cheddar cheese, bacon, sour cream, and green onions. Perfect for easy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large russet potatoes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 3 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • 4 tbsp butter, softened
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional extras: chopped chives, diced tomatoes, shredded cooked chicken, steamed broccoli

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly under cold water and dry them well.
  2. Prick each potato several times with a fork. Rub each potato with olive oil and sprinkle with salt evenly.
  3. Optionally, wrap each potato tightly in aluminum foil for softer skins. For crispier skins, place potatoes directly on a baking sheet without foil.
  4. Place the potatoes on the baking sheet and bake for 50-60 minutes, turning halfway through. Potatoes are done when a fork slides in easily.
  5. While potatoes bake, cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cool.
  6. Prepare toppings: shred cheddar cheese, slice green onions, and soften butter. Prepare any optional extras if desired.
  7. Once potatoes are baked, slice them open lengthwise carefully. Fluff the inside with a fork and add a pat of butter and shredded cheese. Let cheese melt slightly.
  8. Top with bacon, sour cream, green onions, and black pepper. Allow everyone to customize their potato with preferred toppings.
  9. Serve immediately while warm. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes or sear in a skillet.

Notes

For softer skins, wrap potatoes in foil before baking; for crispier skins, bake directly on the baking sheet without foil. Flip potatoes halfway through baking for even cooking. Cook bacon separately to keep it crispy. Customize toppings to taste. Leftover potatoes can be reheated in the oven or skillet to refresh crispness.

Nutrition

Keywords: loaded baked potato, baked potato bar, comfort food, easy dinner, classic toppings, bacon, cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onions