Baked potatoes are a staple side dish at many dinner tables, but have you tried loaded baked potatoes? This elevated version of the classic dish is not only delicious but also a great option for a quick and easy dinner. In this article, we will take you through the steps of making loaded baked potatoes.
Ingredients
To make loaded baked potatoes, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 large potatoes
- 1 cup of grated cheese
- 1/2 cup of sour cream
- 4 slices of bacon
- 3 tablespoons of butter
- 1/4 cup of chopped green onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Now that you have gathered your ingredients, it's time to get cooking!
Step 1: Prepare the potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Scrub the potatoes clean and dab them dry with a paper towel. Using a fork, poke a few holes into the potatoes to allow steam to escape while cooking. Place the potatoes onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and set it aside.
Step 2: Bake the potatoes
Bake the potatoes in the oven for 45-60 minutes or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Once the potatoes are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the toppings
In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook bacon until it is crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and crumble it into small pieces. In the same skillet, melt the butter and saute the green onions until they are soft. Set the bacon and onions aside in a separate bowl.
Step 4: Assemble the loaded potatoes
Cut the potatoes in half lengthwise, and using a spoon, scoop out the flesh of the potatoes and place it in a bowl. Try to leave about 1/4 inch of potato flesh in each skin to maintain its shape. Combine the scooped-out potato flesh, sour cream, 1/2 cup of grated cheese, bacon, green onions, salt, and pepper in the bowl and mix well. Spoon the mixture back into the potato skins and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
Step 5: Bake the loaded potatoes
Place the loaded potatoes back onto the baking sheet and return them to the oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
Conclusion
Loaded baked potatoes are a delicious and easy dinner option. With just a few ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a mouthwatering meal that is sure to impress your family and friends. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious flavors of a loaded baked potato!
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