These steakhouse baked potatoes are the perfect side dish! With crispy skin and fluffy, creamy insides, they’re sure to impress. Top them with butter, cheese, or your favorite toppings for extra yum!
I love loading mine with sour cream and chives—it’s like a cozy flavor hug! 😊 Plus, they’re so easy to make and go great with any meal. You won’t want to skip these potatoes!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are thick-skinned and great for baking, giving a fluffy interior. If you can’t find russets, Yukon Golds are a good alternative. They have a slightly creamy texture, which works well too.
Olive Oil: This adds a nice flavor and helps crisp the skin. If you’re looking for a different taste, you can use melted butter or avocado oil instead.
Cheddar Cheese: A classic topping! However, feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a kick. Vegan cheese also works if you’re keeping it plant-based!
Sour Cream: This gives a creamy richness. Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you want something a tad healthier, or even a non-dairy yogurt if needed.
Bacon: Cooked bacon adds crunch and a smoky flavor. For a vegetarian option, try crumbled tempeh bacon or sautéed mushrooms for that savory touch.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Baked Potato Every Time?
To achieve that fluffy inside and crispy skin you expect from a steakhouse baked potato, there are a few simple steps to follow. Let’s focus on preparation and baking techniques.
- Always start with washing and scrubbing your potatoes well to remove dirt. Pat them dry before cooking.
- Piercing the potatoes with a fork allows steam to escape, preventing them from bursting in the oven.
- Coating them with olive oil and salt is key; it not only flavors the skin but also helps it crisp up.
- Bake them directly on the oven rack for the best air circulation, which promotes even cooking.
- Let them rest after baking; this allows the steam to escape and keeps the potato fluffy inside. Squeeze the ends gently for that light, airy feel.
With these tips, you’ll have perfect steakhouse-style baked potatoes every time!
Best Steakhouse Baked Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- ¼ cup fresh chives or cilantro, chopped
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 45-60 minutes to bake, for a total of around 55-70 minutes. It’s a straightforward process that involves washing, baking, and topping the potatoes, making it perfect for an easy side dish any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will ensure that your potatoes bake evenly and get that nice crispy skin.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Wash and scrub the russet potatoes under running water to remove any dirt or debris. Once they’re clean, pat them dry with a towel. This step is important for achieving that perfect texture!
3. Poke and Season:
Using a fork, pierce each potato several times. This allows steam to escape while they bake, preventing them from bursting. Then, rub each potato with olive oil and sprinkle sea salt over them. Make sure they are well coated to enhance the flavor!
4. Bake the Potatoes:
Place the seasoned potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. You’ll know they’re done when they feel soft inside.
5. Fluff and Top:
Once baked, remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly. Cut a slit down the center of each potato and gently squeeze the ends to fluff the inside. This creates a perfect pocket for the toppings!
6. Add the Delicious Toppings:
Now it’s time to get creative with your toppings! Start with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese, then add a dollop of sour cream, sprinkle on crumbled bacon, and finish with chopped chives or cilantro. If you like, add freshly ground black pepper to taste for an extra kick.
Serve hot and enjoy your delicious steakhouse-style baked potatoes!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Yes, you can use other types of potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, but russet potatoes are best for that fluffy texture. If you switch to waxy potatoes, just keep in mind that they may not fluff up as nicely as russets.
What If I Don’t Have Olive Oil?
No problem! You can substitute olive oil with melted butter or another oil like canola or avocado oil. Just make sure to keep that same generous coating to achieve a crispy skin!
How Can I Store Leftover Baked Potatoes?
Store any leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or pop them in the microwave for a quicker option.
Can I Prepare These Baked Potatoes in Advance?
Definitely! You can bake the potatoes in advance and store them in the fridge. Just reheat them when you’re ready to serve. For optimal texture, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave if you can.
