Loaded Baked Potatoes with Bacon and Cheese

Introduction

Few dishes embody comfort food quite like a loaded baked potato. Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and generously filled with melted cheese, crispy bacon, sour cream, and fresh green onions—it’s a dish that never fails to impress. Whether served as a hearty side dish or the star of the meal, these potatoes are satisfying, customizable, and indulgent.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it turns a humble potato into something truly special. The crisp skin gives way to a creamy interior, and when topped with smoky bacon, gooey cheese, and tangy sour cream, every bite feels like pure comfort. It’s versatile, fun to customize, and perfect for both casual family dinners and gatherings with friends.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Easy & Affordable: Uses simple ingredients found in every kitchen.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for game nights, potlucks, or family dinners.
• Customizable: Endless topping options (cheese, veggies, sauces).
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Rich, creamy, and packed with flavor.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~500–550 per serving (depending on toppings)

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: American
• Course: Main Course / Side Dish

Ingredients

For the Potatoes:

• 4 large russet potatoes, scrubbed clean
• 2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)
• 1 tsp kosher salt

For the Toppings:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
• ½ cup sour cream
• 3 tbsp chopped green onions (or chives)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (optional, for creamier filling)
• Black pepper, to taste

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Bake the potatoes until tender.
2. Cut open and fluff the insides with a fork.
3. Add butter, cheese, bacon, sour cream, and green onions.
4. Serve hot with extra toppings if desired.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prepare the Potatoes
   • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Scrub the potatoes thoroughly, dry them, and prick each potato with a fork.
   • Rub with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
2. Bake the Potatoes
   • Place directly on the oven rack or a baking sheet.
   • Bake for 60–70 minutes, until skins are crispy and potatoes are tender when pierced with a knife.
3. Cook the Bacon
   • While potatoes bake, cook bacon in a skillet until crispy.
   • Drain on paper towels and crumble into small pieces.
4. Assemble the Potatoes
   • Once baked, slice each potato lengthwise.
   • Fluff the inside gently with a fork and mix with a little butter if desired.
   • Sprinkle cheese inside, allowing it to melt.
   • Top with crumbled bacon, a dollop of sour cream, and chopped green onions.
   • Season with black pepper.

How to Serve

• Serve hot as a main dish with a salad or grilled protein.
• Perfect side dish for steak, barbecue, or roasted chicken.
• Set up a “potato bar” for parties where guests can choose their own toppings.

Additional Recipe Tips

• For crispier skins, bake directly on the oven rack.
• Always prick potatoes before baking to prevent bursting.
• Use russet potatoes for their fluffy interior.
• Add toppings right after baking so cheese melts beautifully.

Variations

• Tex-Mex Loaded Potatoes: Add salsa, jalapeños, black beans, and shredded Mexican cheese.
• Buffalo Chicken Potatoes: Top with shredded buffalo chicken and blue cheese crumbles.
• Veggie Loaded Potatoes: Add steamed broccoli, mushrooms, or sautéed spinach.
• Breakfast Version: Top with scrambled eggs, sausage, and shredded cheese.
• BBQ Loaded Potatoes: Add pulled pork and barbecue sauce.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigeration: Store assembled potatoes in the fridge for 2–3 days. Reheat in oven at 350°F until warmed through.
• Freezing: Bake potatoes, cool, and wrap tightly (without toppings). Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in oven before topping.
• Reheating: Avoid microwaving if possible (it makes skins soggy). Oven reheating keeps them crisp.

Special Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet (optional, can bake directly on rack)
• Skillet (for bacon)
• Sharp knife & fork

Conclusion

Loaded Baked Potatoes with Bacon and Cheese are the ultimate comfort food—crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy inside, and bursting with cheesy, smoky, and creamy flavors. They’re endlessly customizable, easy to make, and guaranteed to be a hit whether served as a hearty side dish or a main course. Once you try them, they’ll become a go-to favorite for cozy family meals or entertaining friends.