These steakhouse baked potatoes are the perfect side dish! Soft, fluffy inside with a crisp skin, they’re topped with butter, sour cream, and chives for that extra zing.
They’re so easy to make; just pop them in the oven and let them bake. Trust me, you’ll want to serve these with every meal! Plus, who can resist that buttery goodness? 🥔✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are ideal for baking due to their starchy texture, making them fluffy inside. If russets aren’t available, try baking with Idaho potatoes or Yukon Golds, which are also great options.
Olive Oil: A good choice for brushing to help achieve a crispy skin. If you prefer, avocado oil or melted butter can work as substitutes for flavor and crispiness.
Sea Salt: This enhances the potatoes’ flavor beautifully. If you’re watching your sodium intake, consider using kosher salt, which is less salty by volume; just adjust to taste.
Cheddar Cheese: I enjoy sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but feel free to use mozzarella for something milder or a blend of cheeses to mix things up!
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a nice crunch. If you’re vegetarian or want a healthier option, consider using crispy chickpeas or mushrooms for umami flavor.
Chives or Green Onions: These add a fresh note at the end. If you don’t have them, parsley is a nice alternative for a pop of color and flavor as well.
How Do I Bake Potatoes to Get a Crispy Skin?
The secret to perfectly baked potatoes lies in the preparation and baking method. Following these steps closely will give you that crispy exterior we all love!
- Start by scrubbing the potatoes clean under cold water, then drying them well. Moisture will prevent crispiness.
- Poking holes in the potatoes is essential; it allows steam to escape while baking and prevents them from bursting.
- Brushing them with olive oil after seasoning with sea salt is crucial—this helps create that desirable crispy skin.
- Place them directly on the oven rack for the best airflow, ensuring even cooking. If you’re worried about mess, a baking sheet works just as well.
- Bake until tender (about 45-60 minutes), and remember to poke them with a fork to check for doneness!
Best Steakhouse Baked Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- Olive oil (for brushing)
- Sea salt (to taste)
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 4 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh chives or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious baked potato recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 45-60 minutes for baking, depending on your oven. So, in total, you’ll need about 55-70 minutes to get these lovely potatoes ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First things first, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While that’s heating up, give your russet potatoes a good scrub under cold water to clean them. Then, dry them off with a paper towel so they’re ready for seasoning.
2. Poke and Season:
Grab a fork and poke several holes in each potato. This allows steam to escape as they bake, so they don’t burst in the oven. Next, brush each potato with olive oil and sprinkle them generously with sea salt. This will make their skin deliciously crispy!
3. Bake the Potatoes:
Now, place the seasoned potatoes directly on the oven rack (you can also use a baking sheet for easier handling). Bake them for 45-60 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re nice and tender when pierced with a fork. Just let them do their thing in the oven!
4. Slice and Top:
Once they’re baked, take the potatoes out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes—just enough so you can handle them. Carefully slice each potato open lengthwise, and fluff the insides with a fork. Now comes the fun part—top them with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, crumbled bacon, and sprinkle with chopped chives or green onions!
5. Enjoy!
If you like, add freshly cracked black pepper on top for a bit of extra flavor. Serve these tasty baked potatoes hot, and enjoy them as a scrumptious side dish or even as a satisfying main course!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are the classic choice for baked potatoes due to their fluffy interior, you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly, and the texture will be creamier with Yukon Golds.
How to Make Baked Potatoes in the Microwave?
If you’re short on time, you can microwave the potatoes! Poke holes in each potato as you would for oven baking, then microwave on high for about 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through. For even crispiness, you can then transfer them to a preheated oven for 10 minutes after microwaving.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can bake the potatoes in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave for a quicker option, just be aware they may become a bit softer.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat them in the oven or microwave, then add fresh toppings like cheese and sour cream for the best taste!
