These Best Steakhouse Baked Potatoes are fluffy and packed with flavor, just like you’d get at a fancy restaurant. Loaded with butter, sour cream, and chives, they are hard to resist!
When I make these at home, I can never stop at just one! They’re the perfect side for any meal, especially when you want to feel a bit fancy without much fuss. Who doesn’t love a good baked potato? 🥔✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are the best choice for baked potatoes because they have a fluffy interior. If you can’t find them, Yukon Golds can work, though they’ll be creamier and more buttery.
Olive Oil: While I love olive oil for its flavor, feel free to substitute with canola oil or melted butter for a different taste. Both will still give you a crispy skin.
Cheddar Cheese: You can use sharp, medium, or even a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack for a milder flavor. If you’re dairy-free, look for vegan cheese alternatives.
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you want something tangy and creamy with fewer calories. You can also use non-dairy yogurt for a dairy-free version.
Bacon: If you prefer a vegetarian option, consider crumbled tempeh or coconut bacon for a smoky crunch. You can also skip it entirely!
Chives/Green Onions: These fresh herbs add zing, but you can replace them with parsley or even dill if that’s what you have. Fresh herbs make a huge difference!
How Do You Get the Perfect Baked Potato Skin?
Getting that crispy skin is key to a great baked potato. The steps to ensure you have a perfect exterior include proper preparation and cooking techniques. Here’s how:
- Start by scrubbing the russet potatoes well to remove any dirt. Dry them thoroughly afterward.
- Pricking the potatoes with a fork is essential as it allows steam to escape during baking. This prevents them from bursting.
- Coating them in olive oil and a generous sprinkle of sea salt provides flavor and crispness.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for at least 45-60 minutes. Use a fork to check for doneness—if it goes in easily, you’re good to go!
Let them cool slightly before cutting, and always fluff the insides to make room for your toppings!
Best Steakhouse Baked Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- Olive oil, for coating
- Sea salt, for sprinkling
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 6 strips of cooked bacon, crumbled
- ¼ cup fresh chives or green onions, chopped
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Butter (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then 45-60 minutes to bake. In just over an hour, you’ll have delicious, fluffy steakhouse-style baked potatoes ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve that crispy skin we all love on baked potatoes!
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Scrub the russet potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt. Once clean, dry them thoroughly with a kitchen towel. Pricking the potatoes several times with a fork is essential as it prevents them from bursting while they bake.
3. Coat and Season:
Take the potatoes and coat them with olive oil using your hands or a brush. Then, sprinkle sea salt generously all over – this will add flavor and help create a crunchy skin.
4. Bake the Potatoes:
Place the prepared potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet for easier cleanup. Bake for about 45-60 minutes. They’re done when the skins are crispy and a fork can easily pierce the flesh.
5. Slice and Fluff:
Once baked, carefully remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool a bit. Slice each potato open lengthwise, but don’t cut all the way through. Use a fork to fluff up the insides, and if you like, add a pat of butter for an extra creamy texture.
6. Add Toppings:
Top your fluffy potato with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, crumbled bacon, and chopped chives or green onions. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper.
7. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, add some fresh cilantro on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve your steakhouse-style baked potatoes hot and enjoy the deliciousness!
## FAQ
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are the best for their fluffy texture, you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check for doneness with a fork.
How Do I Store Leftover Baked Potatoes?
Store leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. If they’re already loaded with toppings, consider reheating them in the oven for better texture.
Can I Make These Potatoes Ahead of Time?
You can prep the potatoes ahead of time by washing and pricking them. Just coat with oil and salt right before baking for the best results. If you want to bake them in advance, just reheat them in the oven or microwave when ready to serve.
What Can I Use Instead of Sour Cream?
If you’re out of sour cream or prefer a healthier option, Greek yogurt works wonderfully as a substitute! It has a similar creamy texture and adds a nice tang. You can also use crema or even ranch dressing for a different flavor.
