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Loaded Baked Potato Bar Recipe Easy Game Day Idea with 6 Toppings

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A cozy and customizable loaded baked potato bar perfect for game day, featuring six classic toppings including sour cream, bacon, cheddar cheese, and green onions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 large russet potatoes
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup full-fat sour cream
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 8 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and chopped
  • 4 green onions, sliced thin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, chopped chives

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Scrub and dry 6 large russet potatoes. Poke each potato 6-8 times with a fork to let steam escape during baking.
  3. Rub each potato with about 1 teaspoon of olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt.
  4. Place potatoes directly on a wire rack over a foil-lined baking sheet or directly on the baking sheet.
  5. Bake for 45-60 minutes, turning once halfway through, until skins are crispy and a knife slides in easily.
  6. While potatoes bake, cook 8 thick-cut bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until crispy (about 8-10 minutes). Drain on paper towels and chop once cooled.
  7. Prepare toppings: shred 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, slice 4 green onions thinly, and measure 1 cup sour cream. Prepare any optional toppings if using.
  8. Once potatoes are done, slice them open lengthwise and fluff the insides with a fork.
  9. Add a teaspoon of butter and a pinch of salt and pepper inside each potato.
  10. Arrange potatoes on a platter or keep warm in a low oven. Place all toppings in bowls nearby for guests to build their own loaded potatoes.

Notes

Do not wrap potatoes in foil to keep skins crispy. Poke holes in potatoes to prevent bursting. Cook bacon slowly on medium heat for best crispness. Fluff potato insides gently with a fork. Keep toppings warm or chilled as appropriate. To speed cooking, microwave potatoes 5-6 minutes before baking for 20 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: loaded baked potato, game day recipe, potato bar, easy dinner, customizable toppings, comfort food