These baked potatoes are the ultimate side dish! Fluffy on the inside and crispy on the outside, they make every meal feel like a special occasion.
Top them with butter, sour cream, or cheese, and you’ve got a delicious treat. Trust me, you’ll want to make these every week! I love enjoying them with a juicy steak—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are the best for baking because they have a fluffy interior. If you can’t find Russets, Yukon Golds can be a nice alternative, giving a creamier texture.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps achieve that crispy skin. If you want a different flavor, avocado oil or melted butter works well too.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: I love the bite sharp cheddar gives. Feel free to try other cheeses like pepper jack for a kick or a milder cheese like Monterey Jack if you prefer.
Bacon: Crumbled bacon adds a smoky crunch. For a vegetarian option, consider using cooked mushrooms or smoked tempeh to mimic that flavor.
Cilantro or Chives: I usually opt for chives for their mild onion flavor, but cilantro brings a fresh note! If you’re not a fan of either, green onions are a great substitute.
How Can I Ensure My Baked Potatoes Are Perfectly Cooked?
Getting that perfect baked potato involves a few key steps. Start by scrubbing the potatoes well to remove dirt, and don’t forget to pierce them! This allows steam to escape, preventing them from bursting in the oven.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) for a good bake.
- Rub those potatoes down with olive oil and sea salt. This creates a delicious, crispy skin that you don’t want to miss!
- Stick them directly on the oven rack or a baking sheet, and bake for about 45-60 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork. Test a few potatoes for doneness.
Let them cool for a few moments before cutting to keep all that yummy steam inside – then fluff and load them up with all your favorite toppings! Enjoy your meal!
Best Steakhouse Baked Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 4 large Russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 8 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or chives, chopped (for garnish)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 45-60 minutes to bake, for a total of around 55-70 minutes. Most of the time is hands-off while the potatoes bake to perfection in the oven. Get ready to enjoy some tasty baked potatoes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is the ideal temperature for making those crispy, fluffy baked potatoes!
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Grab your Russet potatoes and scrub them under cold water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a towel so they roast nicely. Use a fork to prick each potato several times; this will let the steam escape while they bake.
3. Season the Potatoes:
Rub each potato with a bit of olive oil, coating them well. Then, sprinkle sea salt over each one. This adds flavor and helps create a crispy skin!
4. Bake the Potatoes:
Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake for about 45-60 minutes, until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork. You’ll know they’re ready when they feel soft inside!
5. Prepare for Serving:
When the potatoes are cooked, carefully remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Cut a slit down the center of each potato and gently squeeze the ends to open them up and reveal the fluffy interior.
6. Add Delicious Toppings:
Fluff the insides of each potato with a fork. Now it’s time to pile on the toppings! Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, add a generous dollop of sour cream, crumbled bacon, and finish with chopped cilantro or chives for a fresh touch.
7. Season and Enjoy:
Don’t forget to season with freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve your steakhouse-style baked potatoes immediately while they’re hot and enjoy them as a delightful side for your favorite steak or on their own!
Enjoy your delicious, classic steakhouse-style baked potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While Russet potatoes are ideal for their fluffy texture, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check for tenderness accordingly!
How Can I Store Leftover Baked Potatoes?
Store leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave or oven until heated through. If you choose the oven, wrap them in foil to prevent them from drying out.
Can I Prepare These Potatoes in Advance?
Yes! You can bake the potatoes ahead of time and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat in the oven or microwave and add your toppings fresh!
How Can I Make These Baked Potatoes Healthier?
To make healthier baked potatoes, you can swap sour cream for Greek yogurt and choose turkey bacon instead of regular bacon. You can also load them up with more vegetables like steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach for extra nutrients!
