These baked potatoes are the perfect side dish for any meal! Fluffy on the inside with a crispy skin, they are just calling for some butter, cheese, and chives.
Honestly, these potatoes make me feel like I’m dining at a fancy steakhouse, even if I’m in my pajamas. I love them loaded up with toppings—so good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are perfect for baking because of their starchy texture that becomes fluffy inside. If you’re out of russets, Yukon Golds will work too, though the texture will be slightly creamier.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for flavor. But feel free to swap it out with another oil like avocado oil or even melted butter for that extra richness.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice kick, but you could use Monterey Jack or Colby Jack for a milder taste. For a dairy-free option, try a plant-based cheese that melts well.
Bacon: Cooked bacon adds a tasty crunch. If you want a veggie option, chopped cooked mushrooms can mimic that savory bite. You can use turkey bacon for a leaner choice too!
Chives/Green Onions: Fresh chives or green onions add brightness to the dish. If you don’t have either, finely chopped parsley can work as a substitute, though it won’t have the same flavor punch.
How Do You Bake Potatoes Perfectly Every Time?
Baking potatoes seems simple, but getting it just right can be tricky. Here’s how to ensure your potatoes come out perfect:
- Start by preheating your oven at 425°F (220°C). A hot oven helps create a crispy skin.
- Scrub the potatoes thoroughly; dirt on the skin can affect the taste.
- Poking holes is essential as it prevents them from bursting in the oven while baking.
- Coating with olive oil and salt helps create that desired crispy skin. Make sure to coat them evenly.
- Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack; this allows heat to circulate all around for even cooking.
- Bake until it’s easy to pierce with a fork. Timing may vary based on potato size, so keep an eye on them!
Letting them cool for a bit before cutting gives steam time to escape and helps with fluffing them inside. Enjoy your delicious baked potatoes!
Best Steakhouse Baked Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
For Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh chives or green onions, chopped
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 45-60 minutes to bake, making it a perfect side dish for any meal. In total, you should set aside about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes to enjoy these delicious steakhouse-style baked potatoes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). It’s important to get it nice and hot for perfectly baked potatoes!
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Next, scrub the russet potatoes under cold water to clean off any dirt. Make sure to dry them thoroughly using a towel. This step is key to getting a crispy skin!
3. Poke and Season:
Using a fork, poke several holes in each potato. This allows steam to escape while they bake, preventing them from bursting. Then, coat each potato with olive oil and sprinkle a bit of sea salt evenly over them.
4. Bake the Potatoes:
Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet if you prefer. Bake them for about 45-60 minutes. They’ll be done when the skins are crispy and a fork easily penetrates the flesh. Just keep an eye on them!
5. Fluff and Top:
Once they are baked, take the potatoes out of the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Cut a slit down the center of each potato and gently squeeze the ends to fluff up the insides. Now it’s time to pile on your toppings!
6. Add the Good Stuff:
Top each potato with a generous scoop of sour cream, a handful of shredded cheddar cheese, the chopped bacon, and some fresh chives or green onions. Don’t be shy with the toppings—more is better!
7. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, you can add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a beautiful finishing touch. Serve your steakhouse-style baked potatoes immediately, and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
While russet potatoes are ideal for baking due to their fluffy texture, you can use other types like Idaho or Yukon Gold potatoes. Just keep in mind that the texture and taste may vary slightly, with Yukon Gold being creamier and less fluffy.
How Can I Make Baked Potatoes Ahead of Time?
You can pre-bake the potatoes up to 1 day in advance. After baking, let them cool completely, and then wrap them in foil or place them in an airtight container in the fridge. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
What Should I Do if My Potatoes Are Not Soft After Baking?
If your potatoes are still firm after the initial baking time of 45-60 minutes, simply continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes. You may want to check them every few minutes with a fork until they are tender. The actual baking time can vary based on potato size and oven variations.
How to Store Leftover Baked Potatoes?
Store any leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven or microwave. If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, checking often to ensure they don’t get too dry.
