If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Loaded Baked Potatoes Recipe is going to be your new best friend. Perfectly fluffy on the inside and crisp on the outside, these potatoes are piled high with flavorful garlic butter, melty Cheddar cheese, smoky bacon aioli, and a fresh sprinkle of green onions that take every bite to the next level. It’s a simple yet indulgent recipe that’s as satisfying as it is easy to whip up any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients shine individually, but together they create a symphony of taste and texture that’s hard to resist. Each component is essential, whether it’s bringing creamy richness, a crispy edge, or a punch of flavor.
- 4 medium russet potatoes: The perfect choice for fluffy interiors and crispy skins, making or breaking your loaded baked potatoes.
- Avocado or olive oil cooking spray: Helps achieve that golden, crispy skin without excess oil.
- ½ cup butter, softened: Brings richness and helps carry the garlic seasoning beautifully inside the potato.
- 1 tablespoon Italian Garlic Seasoning: Adds aromatic depth and a savory punch that wakes up every bite.
- 1 cup shredded mild Cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly over warm potatoes, lending that gooey, cheesy heaven.
- ¼ cup Bacon Aioli: A creamy, smoky drizzle that takes this traditional side into irresistible territory.
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional): Adds a fresh, mild crunch and a pop of green color, finishing off the dish beautifully.
How to Make Loaded Baked Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is key for baking your russet potatoes to a perfectly tender interior with a crispy, inviting skin.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Give your potatoes a good scrub to remove any dirt, then lightly spray each one with your avocado or olive oil cooking spray. This little touch ensures you get that sought-after skin crispiness when they bake. Feel free to season them lightly with salt and pepper at this stage for an extra flavor boost. Place them directly on the oven rack so heat circulates all around, and bake for about 50 minutes, or until you can easily pierce them with a fork.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter
While your potatoes are baking, mix together the softened butter and Italian Garlic Seasoning in a small bowl. This garlic butter is what really transforms these potatoes from simple to spectacular, infusing them with savory, aromatic goodness that complements the creamy texture.
Step 4: Assemble the Loaded Baked Potatoes
Once your potatoes are out of the oven and cool enough to handle, carefully slice each one open. Dollop a generous spoonful of the garlic butter inside, letting it melt slowly over the hot potato flesh. Next, sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese over the top, letting it soften and melt slightly. To finish, add a drizzle of smoky Bacon Aioli and a sprinkle of fresh green onions if you like. These toppings not only add incredible flavor but irresistible textures that will make every forkful memorable.
How to Serve Loaded Baked Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
While the green onions are optional, adding them gives your loaded baked potatoes a fresh crunch and a subtle onion bite that brightens the dish. Other great garnishes to consider include crispy bacon bits, a dollop of sour cream for tanginess, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a hint of warmth.
Side Dishes
Loaded baked potatoes make a fantastic centerpiece or side. Pair them with a fresh garden salad for a lighter meal, roasted vegetables for more earthy flavors, or a juicy grilled chicken breast for protein balance. Their rich, creamy nature means they go wonderfully with almost anything you’re serving.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, consider serving the loaded baked potatoes as a “baked potato bar,” allowing guests to customize their toppings. Alternatively, slice the potatoes into halves and arrange them on a platter, or scoop out the insides, mix with extra toppings, then stuff back in for twice the indulgence and presentation wow-factor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers from your Loaded Baked Potatoes Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay good for 3 to 4 days and maintain much of their flavor and texture, though the skins may lose a bit of crispness.
Freezing
Freezing fully loaded baked potatoes is possible, but the texture might change slightly once reheated. It’s best to freeze them without the cheese and aioli; add those fresh when you reheat for the best experience. Wrap tightly in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To reheat, warm your potatoes in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. This method helps restore some crispiness to the skin. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the skin rubbery. Once heated, add fresh cheese, ajoli, and green onions to revive the original loaded baked potatoes magic.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this Loaded Baked Potatoes Recipe?
While russets are preferred for their fluffy texture and crisp skin, you can experiment with Yukon Gold or even sweet potatoes. Just be aware that the texture and baking time will vary slightly.
Is there a vegetarian option for the Bacon Aioli?
Absolutely! You can swap the Bacon Aioli for a smoky chipotle mayo or a simple garlic aioli to keep the creamy, smoky element without bacon.
How do I know when my potatoes are fully baked?
Insert a fork or skewer into the thickest part of the potato. If it slides in easily without resistance, your potato is perfectly baked and ready to be loaded up.
Can I prepare these potatoes ahead of time and reheat later?
Yes, you can bake the potatoes ahead and store them cooled in the fridge. When ready to serve, warm them in the oven and add fresh toppings to maintain that perfect load.
What are some other toppings I can try on loaded baked potatoes?
Feel free to get creative with toppings like steamed broccoli, salsa, jalapeños, sautéed mushrooms, or even chili. Loaded baked potatoes are endlessly customizable!
Final Thoughts
This Loaded Baked Potatoes Recipe is a special comfort food classic that’s easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests. With its blend of creamy, crispy, savory, and fresh flavors, it’s sure to become a household favorite. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be dreaming of these hearty, flavorful potatoes again and again. Go ahead, give it a whirl and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Loaded Baked Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Loaded Baked Potatoes offer a comforting and flavorful side or meal with crispy oven-baked russet potatoes topped with a rich garlic butter, melted cheddar cheese, bacon aioli, and fresh green onions. Perfect for a hearty, satisfying dish that combines simple ingredients for maximum taste.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 4 medium russet potatoes, scrubbed clean
- Avocado or olive oil cooking spray
- Salt and pepper, to taste (optional)
Garlic Butter
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon Italian Garlic Seasoning
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded mild Cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup Bacon Aioli
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the potatoes evenly.
- Prepare Potatoes: Lightly spray the russet potatoes with avocado or olive oil cooking spray and season with salt and pepper if desired. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack to allow air circulation, then bake for about 50 minutes or until they are fork tender.
- Make Garlic Butter: While the potatoes are baking, combine the softened butter with the Italian Garlic Seasoning in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly until the flavors are well incorporated; set aside for topping later.
- Assemble Potatoes: Carefully remove the baked potatoes from the oven and cut them open lengthwise. Dollop the prepared garlic butter onto each potato while hot, then sprinkle generously with shredded Cheddar cheese. Drizzle with bacon aioli and garnish with sliced green onions if desired for added flavor and freshness.
Notes
- Using russet potatoes provides the best texture for baking and stuffing.
- For crispier skin, bake potatoes directly on the oven rack rather than on a baking sheet.
- Feel free to substitute bacon aioli with regular aioli or sour cream for a different flavor.
- Green onions add freshness but can be omitted if preferred.
- Check potato doneness by inserting a fork; it should pierce easily.
