These steakhouse baked potatoes are the perfect side dish! Fluffy and creamy on the inside, they have a crispy skin that adds a nice crunch. Just what you need for a delicious meal!
Honestly, I love loading mine with butter and sour cream—it’s like giving them a cozy blanket! These potatoes are so easy to make that they’ll be a go-to at my dinner table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are the best choice for baked potatoes due to their starchy texture. If russets are unavailable, you can use Idaho potatoes or even sweet potatoes for a different twist.
Olive Oil: This adds a lovely crispiness to the skin. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you could use a light spray of cooking oil. Alternatively, melted butter can give rich flavor as well.
Cheddar Cheese: While I recommend sharp cheddar for its robust flavor, feel free to experiment. Monterey Jack or pepper jack can also be fun, and for a non-dairy option, cashew cheese works well!
Sour Cream: If you want a healthier option, Greek yogurt provides similar creaminess with extra protein. Dairy-free alternatives like coconut yogurt are also great substitutes for those avoiding dairy.
How Do I Get Crispy Potato Skins?
Crispy potato skins are a must for a great baked potato experience! For perfectly crispy skins, follow these steps:
- Preheat your oven well; a temperature of 425°F is ideal.
- Scrub the potatoes well to remove dirt, then dry them completely to help the oil stick.
- Prick the potatoes to allow steam to escape; this prevents moisture build-up, which can make skins soggy.
- Coating the potatoes with olive oil and a generous sprinkle of sea salt helps achieve that crispy texture—don’t skip this step!
- Bake directly on the oven rack or a baking sheet to encourage airflow, which will also help the skin crisp up.
How to Make Best Steakhouse Baked Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Baked Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (plus more for sprinkling)
For Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh chives or parsley, chopped
- Black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and 45-60 minutes for baking. So, you’re looking at around 1 hour total! Perfect for a cozy dinner or a backyard barbecue.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This step is important as it will ensure your potatoes bake to crispy perfection.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Next, scrub those russet potatoes under cold water to clean them thoroughly. Once you’ve cleaned them, dry each potato off with a towel to get rid of any excess water.
3. Prick and Season:
Using a fork, prick each potato several times. This is to prevent them from bursting while they bake! Then, rub each potato with olive oil and sprinkle them with sea salt, making sure they’re well coated. This will help achieve a delicious, crispy skin.
4. Bake the Potatoes:
Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet for easier handling. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the skins are crispy and a fork easily pierces the flesh. You’ll know they’re ready when they feel soft inside!
5. Slice & Fluff:
Once baked, carefully remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly—no one likes a burned hand! Then, slice each potato open lengthwise but not all the way through. Use a fork to fluff the insides a bit; this creates a lovely texture for all those delicious toppings!
6. Add Your Favorite Toppings:
Now for the fun part! Top each potato generously with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, crumbled bacon, and fresh chives or parsley. Don’t forget to sprinkle a bit of black pepper on top for an extra kick!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your steakhouse baked potatoes are now ready to be served! They make a fantastic side dish or even a hearty main dish. Enjoy your delicious cooking!
Can I Use Other Potato Varieties for This Recipe?
Yes! While russet potatoes are the best choice for their fluffy interior and crispy skin, you can also use Yukon gold or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary, so check for doneness by piercing them with a fork.
How to Store Leftover Baked Potatoes?
Store any leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or microwave them for a quick snack!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! To create a vegan version, simply substitute the cheddar cheese with a vegan cheese alternative and use plant-based sour cream. You can also top with crumbled tofu or tempeh instead of bacon for added texture and flavor!
How Can I Prepare the Potatoes Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the potatoes by washing and pricking them in advance. Store them in the fridge overnight, then just rub with olive oil and salt before placing them in the oven. This will save you prep time on the day you’re serving them!
