Description
This classic recipe for Baked Potatoes in the Oven features crispy-skinned russet potatoes stuffed with a delicious mix of cheddar cheese, sour cream, bacon, and green onions. Perfect as a comforting side dish or a hearty main course, these stuffed jacket potatoes are easy to prepare and customizable with optional toppings like butter, chives, or cooked vegetables. Enjoy the classic American comfort food with a gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly twist.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Stuffing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 green onions, sliced
Optional Toppings
- Butter
- Chives
- Cooked vegetables for stuffing
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Potatoes: Scrub the russet potatoes clean under running water and pat them dry with a towel.
- Season Potatoes: Rub each potato evenly with olive oil, then sprinkle all sides with salt and black pepper to season the skins.
- Bake Potatoes: Place the prepared potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet and bake for 45 to 60 minutes. The potatoes are done when tender and easily pierced through with a fork.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the baked potatoes from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes until they are safe to handle.
- Slice and Fluff: Slice each potato lengthwise down the middle, then gently fluff the inside flesh with a fork to create a soft bed for toppings.
- Add Toppings: Generously top the fluffy potato interiors with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, crumbled bacon, and sliced green onions. Add optional toppings such as butter, chives, or cooked vegetables if desired.
- Serve Warm: Serve the stuffed baked potatoes immediately while still warm to enjoy the melty cheese and creamy toppings.
Notes
- For extra crispy skins, rub the potatoes with additional olive oil and salt before baking.
- Wrapping potatoes in foil will yield softer skins, but baking directly on the oven rack gives a traditional crispy texture.
- Leftover baked potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated thoroughly in the oven for best texture.
