These steakhouse baked potatoes are the perfect side dish! Fluffy on the inside and crispy on the outside, they make every meal feel special. Top them with butter, sour cream, and chives for a tasty treat!
I love how easy they are to make! Just pop them in the oven and wait for the yummy smell to fill the kitchen. Pair them with steak, and you’ve got a meal that feels like a celebration! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These large potatoes are perfect for baking because of their fluffy texture. If you can’t find russets, you can substitute with Idaho potatoes, as they have similar qualities.
Olive Oil: While olive oil adds a nice flavor, feel free to use vegetable oil or melted butter if you prefer a richer taste. Both will work well with this recipe!
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its strong flavor. If you’re looking for a milder cheese, Monterey Jack or mozzarella would be great alternatives.
Sour Cream: This gives a creamy finish. If you’re dairy-free, try a plant-based sour cream or Greek yogurt for a similar tangy taste.
Bacon: For a vegetarian option, consider crispy fried onions or smoked paprika to add a flavorful crunch without the meat. If you have leftover turkey bacon, that works too!
Chives or Parsley: Both herbs add freshness. If you don’t have either, green onions or even a sprinkle of dill could add a nice touch!
How Do You Ensure Fluffy Baked Potatoes?
Getting that perfect fluffy texture inside a baked potato is essential. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for even cooking.
- Scrub the potatoes clean and dry them well. The water won’t help the skin get crispy!
- Pricking them with a fork is key to allowing steam to escape. This prevents your potatoes from bursting in the oven.
- Rub them with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt to achieve a deliciously crispy skin.
- Baking directly on the oven rack helps the heat circulate, making the skins crispier. If chaos ensues, a foil-lined baking sheet will keep your oven clean.
After baking, let them cool for a few minutes before cutting. This keeps the steam inside and makes them fluffier when you fluff the insides with a fork. Enjoy your perfectly baked potatoes!
How to Make Best Steakhouse Baked Potatoes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Sea salt (to taste)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- ¼ cup chopped fresh chives or parsley
- Pepper (to taste)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and 45-60 minutes for baking. In total, you’ll spend around 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes to have your delicious steakhouse-style baked potatoes ready to serve. It’s easy and absolutely worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, make sure your oven is ready. Preheat it to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will help to achieve that perfect crispy skin on your potatoes.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
While the oven heats up, take your russet potatoes and scrub them under running water to get rid of any dirt. Make sure to dry them off with a towel afterward. This is important for getting a nice crisp on the skin!
3. Prick and Season:
Grab a fork and prick each potato several times. This allows steam to escape while they bake, preventing them from bursting in the oven. Now, rub each potato with olive oil and sprinkle sea salt over the skin for flavor.
4. Bake the Potatoes:
Place the potatoes directly on the middle oven rack, or put them on a lined baking sheet if you prefer easier cleanup. Bake them for about 45-60 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the skins are crispy and a fork goes in easily.
5. Fluff and Top:
Once the potatoes are baked, carefully take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, cut a slit in the top of each potato to open them up. Fluff the insides with a fork to make them extra fluffy!
6. Add Your Toppings:
Now for the fun part! Top each potato with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, crumbled bacon, and chopped chives or parsley. Feel free to get creative with the toppings!
7. Season and Serve:
Finish your potatoes with a sprinkle of pepper and more salt if you’d like. Serve them immediately and enjoy your delicious steakhouse-style baked potatoes. Gather around the table and dig in!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are ideal for baking due to their high starch content, you can use Yukon gold or sweet potatoes if you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so make sure to check for doneness with a fork.
How Can I Make These Potatoes Healthier?
If you want a healthier version, consider using less cheese and sour cream or opting for Greek yogurt as a lighter alternative. You can also add more vegetables like steamed broccoli or spinach for added nutrients without sacrificing flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave them until warmed through, or for an even crisper skin, pop them back in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
Can I Prepare These Potatoes in Advance?
You can prepare the baked potatoes in advance! Bake them, then let them cool completely before wrapping each one in foil and storing them in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat them directly in the oven or microwave.
