If you're looking to make a hearty and indulgent meal, look no further than a loaded baked potato. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and customizable meal that is sure to please everyone's taste buds.
Ingredients
To make a loaded baked potato, you will need:
- Large baking potatoes (1 per person)
- Butter
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Bacon bits or chopped cooked bacon
- Chopped green onions
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C).2. Wash and dry your potatoes thoroughly. Pierce each potato several times with a fork.3. Rub each potato with a small amount of butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Wrap each potato in aluminum foil.4. Place the wrapped potatoes directly on the center rack of the preheated oven. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.5. Remove the potatoes from the oven and carefully unwrap them. Slice each potato lengthwise and fluff the inside with a fork.6. Add a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, and a few bacon bits or chopped cooked bacon to each potato. Top with chopped green onions.7. Serve immediately and enjoy your fully loaded baked potatoes!
Customization
The best thing about loaded baked potatoes is how customizable they are. Here are a few ideas to mix up your toppings and make the meal even more delicious:
- Add cooked chopped broccoli or cauliflower to make it a loaded vegetable potato.
- Substitute the cheddar cheese for a different variety, such as pepper jack or mozzarella.
- Top with cooked chili and more cheese for a chili cheese baked potato.
- Add cooked diced ham or sausage for a meat lover's loaded potato.
Conclusion
As you can see, making a loaded baked potato is easier than you might have thought. With a few simple steps and a wide range of toppings to choose from, this customizable meal is sure to be a hit for any occasion.
