These baked potatoes are a perfect side, just like the ones served at steakhouses! They’re fluffy inside with a crispy skin, ready to be topped with butter, sour cream, or cheese.
I love loading them up with extras—who can resist bacon bits or chives? They’re so good, I sometimes make them the star of the meal! 🥔✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet potatoes: These are great for baking because they have a fluffy interior. If you can’t find russet potatoes, you could use Idaho potatoes, which are similar. However, avoid waxy potatoes like red or fingerling ones, as they won’t give you that soft texture.
Olive oil: I love using extra virgin olive oil for the rich flavor it adds. If you prefer, you can substitute with melted butter or even avocado oil for a different taste. Both options work well for crisping the skin!
Coarse sea salt: This enhances the flavor of the potatoes nicely. If you don’t have sea salt, kosher salt works just as well. Just make sure to sprinkle it generously over the oily skin for that salty crunch.
Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a great tangy flavor. If you’re not a fan of cheddar, feel free to swap for pepper jack for some heat, or even mozzarella for a milder taste. Just keep in mind the melting characteristics!
Sour cream: This adds creaminess to your toppings. Greek yogurt makes a healthier substitute if you’re looking to cut calories. You can also use crema if you want a slightly tangy twist!
How Do I Bake Potatoes Perfectly Without Them Turning Dry?
Baking potatoes is simple, but it requires some attention to detail, especially to keep them moist and fluffy. Here’s how you can achieve that perfect bake:
- Preheat your oven to the right temperature (400°F/200°C) to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t skip poking holes in the potatoes; this releases steam and prevents them from bursting.
- Rub them well with olive oil and sprinkle salt generously. This not only flavors the skin but helps it crisp up nicely.
- Bake directly on the oven rack for a better airflow, which leads to more even baking.
- Test doneness by inserting a fork or knife; it should slide in easily. Underbaking can leave you with a starchy center, while overbaking may dry them out.
Following these tips will give you soft, fluffy baked potatoes that are perfect as a side dish or a meal on their own!
Best Steakhouse Baked Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- Olive oil
- Coarse sea salt
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- ¼ cup fresh chives or green onions, chopped
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
- Pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prepare and around 45-60 minutes to bake the potatoes. It’s a straightforward process, and in no time, you’ll have delicious steakhouse-style baked potatoes ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Potatoes:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, wash the russet potatoes thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a towel so they’re nice and ready for baking!
2. Poking and Seasoning:
Using a fork, poke holes all over each potato. This will help steam escape during baking, so your potatoes don’t explode in the oven! Next, rub each potato with a bit of olive oil and sprinkle them generously with coarse sea salt. Make sure they are well-coated for the best flavor.
3. Baking the Potatoes:
Now, place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet to catch any drippings. Bake them for 45-60 minutes, or until they feel tender and a fork easily pierces through the flesh. The timing may vary, so keep an eye on them!
4. Fluffing and Topping:
Once baked, carefully remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Be careful, as they will be hot! Then, slice each potato open lengthwise and fluff the insides with a fork for extra fluffiness.
5. Adding the Goodies:
Now comes the fun part! Top each potato with shredded cheddar cheese, a generous dollop of sour cream, crumbled bacon, and chopped chives or green onions. Feel free to get creative with your toppings!
6. Garnishing and Serving:
For an extra special touch, add some fresh parsley as a garnish, if you like. Lastly, season with freshly cracked pepper to taste. Serve your steakhouse-style baked potatoes immediately while they are still hot, and enjoy a delicious meal!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
While russet potatoes are ideal for that fluffy texture, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes in a pinch. Just keep in mind that they might be creamier and less fluffy than russets!
What if I Don’t Have Olive Oil?
No problem! You can substitute olive oil with melted butter, canola oil, or even avocado oil. Each will give a slightly different flavor but will still help the skin crisp up nicely.
How to Store Leftover Baked Potatoes?
Store any leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave for a quicker option!
Can I Make These Baked Potatoes in Advance?
Yes! You can bake the potatoes ahead of time and keep them wrapped in foil in the fridge for a couple of days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat them in the oven and add your toppings for a fresh taste!
