These steakhouse baked potatoes are big, fluffy, and oh-so-delicious! Each one is baked to perfection, making it the ideal side dish for a hearty steak dinner.
I love loading mine up with sour cream, cheese, and chives. It’s like a cozy hug on a plate! You can’t go wrong with these as your dinner companion. 🥔❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are perfect for baked potatoes because of their starchy texture. If you can’t find russet potatoes, you can use Idaho potatoes; they have a similar quality. Just make sure they’re large, so they cook evenly.
Olive Oil: It helps create a crispy skin. If you’re out of olive oil, you could use vegetable or canola oil as a substitute. I personally love the flavor olive oil brings, but any oil will work.
Kosher Salt: This salt is great for seasoning because of its coarse texture. If you don’t have it, sea salt works too. Just be cautious with table salt, as it’s more concentrated.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar adds a nice bite to the dish. If you’re looking for a milder flavor, feel free to use mild cheddar or a blend of your favorite cheeses like Monterey Jack.
Bacon: Cooked and crumbled bacon is a tasty topping. If you want a vegetarian option, you can skip the bacon or use turkey bacon. For a healthier touch, consider using fresh sautéed mushrooms instead.
Chives or Cilantro: Chopped herbs enhance the flavor. If you don’t have these, green onions are a great substitute for some onion flavor without overpowering the dish.
How Do I Ensure My Baked Potatoes Have Perfectly Crispy Skin?
Getting that crispy skin is all about preparation! Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your oven well before baking. This ensures even cooking.
- Scrub the potatoes clean under running water. Dirt can keep the skin from getting crispy.
- Don’t skip the pierce step! This allows steam to escape and prevents bursting.
- A generous coat of olive oil and kosher salt creates that crispy outer layer. Use your hands for even coverage.
- Bake the potatoes directly on the oven rack for maximum airflow around them.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have baked potatoes with a crispy skin that’s delicious to eat! Enjoy your meal!
How to Make Best Steakhouse Baked Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- Olive oil
- Kosher salt
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- Fresh chives or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Butter (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 45-60 minutes to bake. Overall, you’ll be enjoying your delicious baked potatoes in under 1.5 hours!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, turn on your oven and set it to 425°F (220°C) so it will be nice and hot by the time your potatoes are ready to go in!
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Give the russet potatoes a good scrub under cold water to clean off any dirt. After that, dry them off with a towel so they’re ready for seasoning.
3. Make Some Holes:
Grab a fork and carefully pierce each potato a few times. This is important because it lets steam escape as they bake, preventing them from bursting!
4. Add Oil and Salt:
Rub each potato with a little olive oil, which will help the skin become crispy. Then, sprinkle a good amount of kosher salt all over the skin for flavor.
5. Bake the Potatoes:
Place the seasoned potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet if you prefer. Bake them for about 45-60 minutes, until the skins are golden and crispy, and a fork goes in easily.
6. Let Them Cool:
Once they’re cooked, take the potatoes out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes, just enough to handle them safely.
7. Fluff and Fill:
Carefully cut a slit down the center of each potato. Use a fork to fluff the insides gently, creating space for all those yummy toppings!
8. Top the Potatoes:
Now for the fun part! Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese, dollops of sour cream, crumbled bacon, and a sprinkle of chopped chives or cilantro on top of each potato.
9. Season and Serve:
Finish it off with a sprinkle of black pepper to taste and, if you like, a little butter on top. Serve these delicious steakhouse-style baked potatoes immediately!
Enjoy your tasty creation!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
While russet potatoes are ideal for baking due to their high starch content, you can substitute with Yukon Gold potatoes. They have a creamy texture, but keep in mind they may not get as crispy on the outside. If using smaller potatoes, adjust the baking time accordingly, checking for doneness sooner!
How to Store Leftover Baked Potatoes?
Store any leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for a few minutes or reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until heated through. Feel free to freshen them up with a bit more cheese or toppings!
Can I Prepare the Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can bake the potatoes in advance. After they cool, wrap them tightly in foil or store them in a sealed container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat them in the oven or microwave. Add your toppings just before serving to keep everything fresh!
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream?
If you want to substitute sour cream, Greek yogurt works great for a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture. You could also use cream cheese, thinned out with a little milk, or even a dairy-free yogurt for a healthier alternative. Just make sure it’s plain to match the flavor profile!
