Save A fun interactive meal featuring perfectly baked potatoes and a variety of affordable flavorful toppings for everyone to customize their own plate.
The baked potato bar became a go-to for family gatherings: everyone gets to load up their potato just how they like it and it always sparks fun conversation around the table.
Ingredients
- Potatoes: 6 large russet potatoes scrubbed clean 2 tbsp olive oil 1 tsp kosher salt
- Classic Toppings: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese 1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt) 4 green onions thinly sliced 4 tbsp unsalted butter 6 strips bacon cooked and crumbled (optional)
- Affordable & Inexpensive Toppings: 1 can (15 oz/425 g) black beans rinsed and drained 1 cup frozen corn thawed 1 cup diced tomatoes 1 cup steamed broccoli florets 1/2 cup pickled jalapeños sliced 1/2 cup salsa 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
- Optional Extras: 1/2 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese 1/2 cup cooked chopped ham hot sauce or sriracha to taste
Instructions
- Prep Potatoes:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. Prick each potato several times with a fork. Rub with olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt.
- Bake:
- Place the potatoes directly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 55–65 minutes or until skins are crisp and potatoes are easily pierced with a fork.
- Prep Toppings:
- While the potatoes bake prepare the toppings: cook and crumble bacon if using chop vegetables and arrange all toppings in separate bowls.
- Serve:
- Remove potatoes from the oven. Let cool slightly then slice open lengthwise and fluff the insides with a fork.
- Set Up Bar:
- Serve potatoes with toppings arranged buffet-style. Let everyone build their own loaded baked potato.
Save Kids love picking out their favorite toppings and it's become an easy way to please a crowd at our dinner table with minimal fuss.
Required Tools
Baking sheet fork small bowls for toppings knife cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese butter sour cream yogurt) possible pork (bacon ham). Gluten-free (double-check processed toppings). For egg soy or nut allergies review labels of packaged products.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (without bacon or optional extras): 340 calories 8 g total fat 58 g carbohydrates 10 g protein
Save Whether for a party or weeknight dinner this baked potato bar makes everyone happy and is sure to be requested again.
Kitchen Help
- → What type of potatoes work best?
Large russet potatoes are preferred for their starchy texture and ability to develop crisp skins while remaining fluffy inside.
- → How do I make the skins crispy?
Rubbing the potatoes with olive oil and kosher salt, then baking at 425°F directly on the rack or baking sheet helps achieve a crispy skin.
- → Can this be adapted for a vegan diet?
Yes, by using plant-based butter, vegan cheese, and non-dairy yogurt or sour cream alternatives, the dish can easily suit vegan preferences.
- → What are some affordable topping ideas?
Black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, steamed broccoli, jalapeños, and salsa offer budget-friendly options full of flavor and texture.
- → How long do the potatoes take to bake?
Potatoes require about 55 to 65 minutes in a 425°F oven to cook through and develop crispy skins.
- → What tools are needed for preparation?
A baking sheet, fork, cutting board, knife, and small bowls for organizing toppings are essential for preparation and serving.