These baked potatoes are a star at any meal! With a crispy skin and fluffy inside, they’re perfect for pairing with your favorite steak or topping with goodies like cheese and sour cream.
I love how easy they are to make. Just pop them in the oven and let them bake while you prepare the main dish. Perfect for when you’re dreaming of steakhouse dining at home! 🥔✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are perfect for baking due to their starchy texture, which creates a fluffy interior. If russets aren’t available, you can use Yukon Gold potatoes, but the texture will be slightly creamier.
Olive Oil: Olive oil gives a wonderful flavor and helps to crisp the skin. If you prefer, avocado oil or melted butter can work well as substitutes for a different taste.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess and tang. Greek yogurt is a great alternative if you’re looking for something lighter. You can also use cottage cheese for a unique twist.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is a classic topping. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for extra flavor.
Bacon: Cooked bacon enhances the dish with its smokiness. For a vegetarian option, you might try crispy fried onions or sautéed mushrooms instead.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Crispy Skin on Baked Potatoes?
Getting that crispy skin is crucial for a great baked potato. Follow these steps to ensure your potatoes turn out perfectly every time.
- Start by scrubbing the russet potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Dry them well to help the oil stick.
- Don’t skip the poking! Pricking the potatoes with a fork a few times allows steam to escape, which helps the skin stay crispy.
- Rub each potato with olive oil and sprinkle sea salt all over to enhance flavor and help with crisping.
- Arrange the potatoes directly on the oven rack. If you choose a baking sheet, make sure it’s lined to catch any drips, but the rack gives better airflow.
- Finally, keep an eye on your potatoes. When they’re fork-tender and the skin is crispy, you’ll know they’re done!
How to Make Best Steakhouse Baked Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- Olive oil
- Sea salt
For The Toppings:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- ¼ cup fresh chives or green onions, chopped
- Pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 45 to 60 minutes to bake. So, you’ll be looking at a total time of about 55 to 70 minutes, including prep and cooking. Just enough time to make a fantastic side dish or even a main event!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will get it nice and hot for our potatoes!
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Take your russet potatoes and scrub them under cold water to remove any dirt. After that, dry them off with a paper towel to get them ready for baking.
3. Prick and Season:
Using a fork, prick each potato several times. This helps steam escape during cooking, preventing them from bursting. Next, rub each potato with a little olive oil and then sprinkle generous amounts of sea salt all over them to give that delicious flavor!
4. Bake the Potatoes:
Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack for that perfect crispy skin. If you’d prefer easier cleanup, you can lay them on a baking sheet. Bake for about 45 to 60 minutes until the skins are crispy, and a fork can easily pierce the flesh inside.
5. Cool and Cut:
Once they’re done baking, carefully remove the potatoes from the oven—be cautious! Let them cool for a few minutes. Then, make a slit down the center of each potato to create a pocket for all those delicious toppings.
6. Fluff and Season:
Grab a fork and fluff up the insides of the potatoes. Add a little more salt and pepper to taste for that extra zing!
7. Top It Off:
Now it’s time to make them really special! Top each potato with a generous scoop of sour cream, sprinkle on shredded cheddar cheese, add crumbled bacon, and finish with fresh chives or green onions on top.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your steakhouse-style baked potatoes hot and enjoy! They’re perfect alongside any meal or even on their own.
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
While russet potatoes are best for baking due to their starchy texture, you can use Yukon Golds for a creamier interior. Just keep in mind they may have a slightly different cooking time, so check them for doneness a little earlier.
What If I Don’t Have Olive Oil?
No problem! You can substitute olive oil with melted butter or vegetable oil. Both options will help achieve that crispy skin on the potatoes. If you’re looking for a flavor boost, using garlic-infused oil can add an extra punch!
How to Store Leftover Baked Potatoes?
Wrap leftovers in foil or place them in an airtight container before refrigerating. They can be stored for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or microwave until heated through.
Can I Make These Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can bake the potatoes early and store them in the fridge. Just reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. For best results, don’t add toppings until you’re ready to serve to keep everything fresh.
