Looking for a comforting and crowd-pleasing side dish or main course? Look no further than the humble baked potato! This classic recipe can be elevated in countless ways to suit any occasion, from casual gatherings with friends to special celebrations like holidays and family dinners. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering baked potato recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
From classic loaded toppings to creative twists featuring bacon, cheese, and more, these recipes showcase the versatility of the baked potato. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or looking to mix things up with bold flavors and unique ingredients, we’ve got you covered. So grab your apron, preheat that oven, and get ready to elevate the humble baked potato to new heights!
Classic Loaded Baked Potato
A comforting twist on a classic favorite, this loaded baked potato is the perfect side dish or main course for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large baking potatoes
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Optional toppings: diced cooked bacon, chopped scallions, diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub and poke the potatoes with a fork several times.
3. Rub the potatoes with butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Bake for 45-60 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
6. Top each potato with shredded cheese, sour cream, and optional toppings (if using).
7. Return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Cheesy Bacon Ranch Baked Potato
Transform a humble baked potato into a decadent treat with this simple recipe. Crispy bacon, creamy ranch dressing, and melted cheddar cheese come together to create a flavor explosion.
Ingredients:
– 1-2 large baking potatoes
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub potatoes clean and poke some holes in them. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until tender.
3. While potatoes are baking, mix crumbled bacon with ranch dressing in a bowl.
4. Remove potatoes from the oven and top each with the bacon-ranch mixture, shredded cheese, and butter.
5. Return potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Garlic Herb Roasted Baked Potato
A flavorful twist on a classic baked potato, this recipe combines the savory goodness of garlic and herbs with the comfort of a warm, fluffy potato.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large baking potatoes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and dry them with a paper towel.
3. Poke some holes in each potato using a fork to allow steam to escape.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, olive oil, thyme, and rosemary.
5. Rub the garlic-herb mixture all over the potatoes, making sure they’re evenly coated.
6. Place the potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
8. If using cheese, sprinkle it over the potatoes during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Baked Potato
Transform a humble baked potato into a flavorful and spicy treat with this recipe! Crispy chicken, creamy buffalo sauce, and melted cheese come together to create an unforgettable comfort food experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 large baking potatoes
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake potatoes for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, cook chicken in a skillet with butter and buffalo sauce until crispy and cooked through.
4. Cut baked potatoes in half lengthwise and fluff the insides.
5. Divide chicken mixture among potato halves and top with shredded cheese and crumbled blue cheese (if using).
6. Return potatoes to oven for an additional 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Broccoli Cheddar Baked Potato
Elevate your baked potato game with this comforting and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of cheddar cheese, the crunch of broccoli, and the warmth of a perfectly cooked spud.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large baking potatoes
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream, chives, or bacon bits for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub and poke the potatoes with a fork several times. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, sauté broccoli in butter until tender but still crisp.
4. When potatoes are done, remove from oven and top each with sautéed broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
5. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: Total cooking time: approximately 50-60 minutes.
Pulled Pork Loaded Baked Potato
Elevate your baked potato game with this hearty recipe that combines tender pulled pork, creamy cheese, and savory toppings. Perfect for a comforting meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large baking potatoes
– 1 cup pulled pork (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon sour cream
– 1 tablespoon chives
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional toppings: diced onions, crumbled bacon, sliced scallions
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes in each with a fork.
3. Bake the potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
4. While the potatoes are baking, combine pulled pork, cheddar cheese, sour cream, and chives in a bowl.
5. Once the potatoes are done, slice them open lengthwise and top each with the pulled pork mixture, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Add any desired toppings (such as onions, bacon, or scallions).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Twice-Baked Potatoes with Sour Cream and Chives
Twice-Baked Potatoes with Sour Cream and Chives: A Rich and Flavorful Side Dish
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large baking potatoes, scrubbed and dried
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated cheese or crispy bacon bits for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and poke some holes in the potatoes, then bake them directly on the middle rack for about 45-60 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly, about 10-15 minutes.
4. Reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
5. Scoop out most of the potato flesh, leaving about 1/8 inch thick shell.
6. In a bowl, combine the scooped-out potato with butter, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
7. Stuff each potato shell with the potato mixture, mounding it slightly.
8. Sprinkle chopped chives over the top of each potato, followed by a pinch of salt if desired.
9. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown and heated through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 10-15 minutes
Mediterranean Stuffed Baked Potato
Elevate your baked potato game with this flavorful Mediterranean-inspired twist. A harmonious blend of creamy hummus, tangy feta cheese, and savory Kalamata olives will transport you to the sun-kissed Mediterranean coast.
Ingredients:
– 2 large baking potatoes
– 1/4 cup hummus
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted and chopped Kalamata olives
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes with a fork.
3. Rub the potatoes with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Bake the potatoes for 45-50 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork.
5. While the potatoes are baking, mix together hummus, feta cheese, and chopped olives in a bowl.
6. Once the potatoes are done, let them cool for a few minutes before slicing in half lengthwise.
7. Spoon the Mediterranean mixture into each potato half and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
BBQ Beef Baked Potato
Elevate your potato game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of BBQ beef with the simplicity of a baked potato. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large baking potatoes
– 1 lb slow-cooked BBQ beef (such as brisket or short ribs), shredded
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon chives, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced onions, shredded cheese, diced bell peppers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes in them with a fork.
3. Rub the potatoes with a little bit of oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Bake the potatoes for 45-60 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
5. While the potatoes are baking, mix the shredded BBQ beef with sour cream and chives.
6. Once the potatoes are done, slice them open and top with the BBQ beef mixture.
7. Add any desired toppings and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Jalapeño Popper Baked Potato
Elevate your baked potato game with this spicy and savory recipe that combines the creaminess of cheese, the crunch of bacon, and the heat of jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large baking potatoes
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon
– 1/2 cup diced jalapeños (seeds removed)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes in them with a fork.
3. Rub the potatoes with butter, then season with salt and pepper.
4. Bake the potatoes for 45-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
5. While the potatoes are baking, mix together the cheese, bacon, and jalapeños.
6. When the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and top each one with the jalapeño popper mixture.
7. Return the potatoes to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10-20 minutes
Greek Yogurt and Dill Baked Potato
Elevate your baked potato game with the creamy tang of Greek yogurt and the freshness of dill!
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large baking potatoes
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: additional toppings such as shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled feta cheese, or diced scallions
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes in them with a fork.
3. Rub the potatoes with olive oil and season with salt.
4. Bake the potatoes for 45-60 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
5. While the potatoes are baking, mix together the Greek yogurt and chopped dill in a small bowl.
6. Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
7. Slice the potatoes open and top each one with a dollop of the yogurt-dill mixture.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Baked Potato
Transform your baked potato into a flavorful fiesta with the sweetness of sweet potatoes and the savory goodness of black beans! This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun twist on traditional baked potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large baking potatoes
– 1 medium sweet potato, cooked and mashed
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced tomatoes, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake the potatoes for 45-60 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a bowl, mix together the mashed sweet potato and black beans.
4. Slice the baked potatoes in half lengthwise and fluff the insides with a fork.
5. Divide the sweet potato-black bean mixture evenly among the potatoes.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Add your desired toppings, if using.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Taco-Spiced Baked Potato with Avocado
Elevate your baked potato game with the bold flavors of tacos! This recipe combines the comfort of a warm baked potato with the vibrant taste of taco seasoning and creamy avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1-2 large baking potatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon taco seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt, to taste
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes in them with a fork.
3. Rub the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with taco seasoning.
4. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
6. Top each potato with sliced avocado and your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Pesto and Mozzarella Baked Potato
Transform a classic baked potato into a decadent treat by topping it with creamy pesto, melted mozzarella cheese, and fresh herbs. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large baking potatoes
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto (or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes in them with a fork.
3. Rub the potatoes with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Bake the potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
5. While the potatoes are baking, spread the pesto evenly over each potato half.
6. Top each potato half with shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Return the potatoes to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Baked Potato Soup with Crispy Toppings
Transforming the comfort of baked potatoes into a rich and creamy soup, topped with crispy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large baking potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: crispy bacon bits, chives, grated cheese, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add diced potatoes, broth, and heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the soup is hot and bubbly.
5. Top with your desired crispy toppings and serve.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Baked Potato Skins with Cheddar and Green Onions
A delicious twist on classic potato skins, these cheesy treats are perfect for a cozy night in or as a game-day snack. With the combination of crispy baked potatoes, melted cheddar cheese, and pungent green onions, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh green onions (scallions)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes in each with a fork.
3. Bake the potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for 10-15 minutes.
5. Slice the potatoes in half lengthwise and scoop out most of the flesh to create a shell.
6. Stuff each potato skin with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions.
7. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
8. Bake the stuffed potato skins for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 1 hour – 1 hour 15 minutes
Loaded Vegan Baked Potato
Elevate your snack game with this indulgent loaded vegan baked potato recipe! A fluffy, buttery spud smothered in a rich medley of roasted vegetables and creamy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1-2 large baking potatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup vegan butter (such as Earth Balance), softened
– 1 cup mixed roasted vegetables (e.g., broccoli, cauliflower, carrots)
– 1/2 cup shredded vegan cheddar cheese (such as Daiya or Follow Your Heart)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh scallions
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes in each.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
4. Roast the potatoes directly on the middle rack of the oven for 45-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
5. While the potatoes are baking, toss the roasted vegetables with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
6. Remove the potatoes from the oven and top each one with a dollop of softened vegan butter, some shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Baked Potato with Chili and Cheese
This comforting recipe combines the simplicity of a baked potato with the richness of chili and melted cheese, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, you’ll be enjoying this satisfying dish in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large baking potatoes
– 1 cup cooked chili (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: sour cream, diced onions, chopped cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes in them with a fork.
3. Rub the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Bake the potatoes for 45-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
5. While the potatoes are baking, heat the chili according to package instructions (if using store-bought).
6. Remove the potatoes from the oven and top each one with heated chili and shredded cheese.
7. Return the potatoes to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 60-75 minutes
Garlic Butter Parmesan Baked Potato
Elevate your baked potato game with this creamy, cheesy, and aromatic recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large baking potatoes
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes with a fork.
3. Rub the softened butter all over the potatoes, making sure to cover them evenly.
4. Sprinkle the minced garlic and Parmesan cheese over the potatoes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the potatoes are cooked through and tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Baked Potato Wedges with Rosemary and Sea Salt
Elevate your snack game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of potatoes with the earthy aroma of rosemary and the crunch of sea salt.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut potatoes into 8-10 wedges each.
3. In a bowl, toss potato wedges with olive oil, chopped rosemary, and flaky sea salt until evenly coated.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the potato wedges in a single layer.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender and golden brown, flipping halfway through.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with additional sea salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your baked potato game! This article brings together 20 delicious recipes to suit every occasion. From classic loaded potatoes to innovative twists, there’s something for everyone. Try adding cheesy bacon and ranch, spicy buffalo chicken, or pulled pork to give your potatoes a flavor boost. For a lighter option, go for garlic herb roasted or Mediterranean-stuffed. And don’t forget the sweet potato and black bean version for a plant-based treat. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a main event, these recipes have got you covered.
