Loaded Baked Potatoes Bacon Cheddar (Printer-Friendly)

Crispy golden russets topped with cheddar, bacon, cool sour cream, and chives—classic comfort food for any occasion.

# List of Ingredients:

→ Potatoes

01 - 4 large Russet potatoes, scrubbed and dried

→ Toppings

02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
04 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
05 - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
06 - 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
07 - 1/2 cup sour cream
08 - 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives or green onions

# Preparation Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C). Scrub the potatoes thoroughly under cold running water and pat completely dry with paper towels.
02 - Using a fork, poke holes all over each potato to allow steam to escape and prevent bursting during baking.
03 - Drizzle each potato with olive oil and massage to coat skin evenly. Generously season with salt and pepper, rubbing it into the oiled skins.
04 - Place potatoes directly on the center oven rack or on a wire rack over a baking sheet for optimal airflow. Bake for 60–75 minutes, or until the skins are crisp and a knife inserts easily into the center.
05 - Immediately after baking, carefully cut a lengthwise slit on the top of each potato. Use a clean kitchen towel to gently squeeze both ends, opening the potato. Fluff the flesh inside with a fork to create room for toppings.
06 - Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over each opened potato, ensuring cheese reaches into the fluffed interior. Return potatoes to oven for 3–5 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbling.
07 - Transfer potatoes to serving plates. Top each with a generous spoonful of sour cream, a handful of crisp bacon, and a sprinkle of fresh chives or green onions. Serve immediately while hot.

# Additional Suggestions:

01 - Do not wrap potatoes in foil, as this steams the skin and prevents crispiness.
02 - Fluffing the potato flesh directly after baking enhances the airy texture and allows toppings to meld properly.
03 - For best results, always use freshly grated cheddar for optimal melting and flavor.
04 - Potatoes are done when the skins are noticeably crisp, and a knife slides in smoothly with no resistance.
05 - Baked potatoes can be prepared in advance and reheated in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15 minutes before adding toppings.

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