Loaded Baked Potatoes with Cheddar, Bacon Aioli, and Green Onions Recipe
If you’re craving a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you are going to absolutely adore this Loaded Baked Potatoes with Cheddar, Bacon Aioli, and Green Onions Recipe. Every bite delivers fluffy, golden-baked russet potatoes smothered in savory garlic butter, melty sharp cheddar, and that irresistible smoky tang of bacon aioli, finished off with the fresh pop of green onions. This hearty recipe is simple yet indulgent, perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or whenever you need a little cozy magic in your meal rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each contributing a unique element to the textures and flavors that make this Loaded Baked Potatoes with Cheddar, Bacon Aioli, and Green Onions Recipe such a winner. The russet potatoes provide a fluffy base, while the garlic butter infuses richness and depth. Cheddar adds a sharp, creamy melt, bacon aioli brings a smoky zing, and green onions give a fresh, crunchy finish.
- 4 medium russet potatoes, scrubbed clean: Perfectly starchy and fluffy when baked, russets are the classic choice for baking.
- Avocado or olive oil cooking spray: Helps the potato skins crisp up beautifully in the oven.
- ½ cup butter, softened: The cornerstone for the rich garlic butter that will melt into every crevice.
- 1 tablespoon Italian Garlic Seasoning: Adds a flavorful punch of herbs and garlic that take the butter to the next level.
- 1 cup shredded mild Cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly and adds that comforting, cheesy goodness.
- ¼ cup Bacon Aioli: Smoky, creamy, and utterly delicious, this sauce is the secret weapon of the dish.
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional): Fresh and crisp, green onions brighten up the dish and add beautiful color.
How to Make Loaded Baked Potatoes with Cheddar, Bacon Aioli, and Green Onions Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is just right to get the potato skins crispy while allowing the insides to become nice and fluffy. Preheating is simple but essential for perfect baked potatoes.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Lightly spray the scrubbed potatoes with avocado or olive oil cooking spray to help the skins crisp up during baking. If you like, add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper for extra flavor. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack — this allows the heat to circulate evenly around them. Bake for about 50 minutes until they are fork tender and you can easily pierce through the skin.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter
While the potatoes bake, combine the softened butter with Italian Garlic Seasoning. Mixing these together creates an incredibly fragrant, herby butter that will add layers of flavor to the baked potatoes. Set this aside for when your potatoes are ready.
Step 4: Assemble the Loaded Baked Potatoes with Cheddar, Bacon Aioli, and Green Onions Recipe
When the potatoes are done and lovely and hot, carefully cut them open lengthwise. Dollop the herbed garlic butter on top so it melts into every crevice. Sprinkle generously with shredded mild Cheddar cheese while the potatoes are still hot to get that amazing melty effect. Finally, drizzle the smoky Bacon Aioli over each potato and finish with fresh green onion slices for a pop of color and brightness.
How to Serve Loaded Baked Potatoes with Cheddar, Bacon Aioli, and Green Onions Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Loaded Baked Potatoes with Cheddar, Bacon Aioli, and Green Onions Recipe even further, consider adding a dollop of sour cream for tanginess, crumbled crispy bacon for more smoky goodness, or even a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for vibrant green notes. A little extra shredded cheese on top never hurts either!
Side Dishes
This recipe shines as a satisfying main, but pairing it with a crisp garden salad or roasted seasonal vegetables can add freshness and balance to the meal. A bowl of hearty chili or a simple grilled chicken breast also complements these loaded potatoes nicely if you’re aiming for a fuller, more substantial dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun entertaining twist, turn this recipe into a “loaded baked potato bar,” setting out the potatoes with bowls of shredded cheese, toppings, bacon aioli, and chopped green onions so everyone can build their perfect potato. Alternatively, scoop the potato flesh into a bowl, mix with the cheese and bacon aioli, then stuff it back into the skins for perfectly molded bites.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover potatoes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the toppings like bacon aioli and green onions separate for best freshness, and add them just before serving again.
Freezing
While baked potatoes don’t freeze perfectly with all toppings, you can freeze the plain baked potatoes. Wrap each potato tightly in foil and place in a freezer bag, where they’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating and adding fresh toppings.
Reheating
To reheat your loaded baked potatoes, oven warming is best to preserve texture—heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave for convenience but note the skin may soften. Add fresh green onions and bacon aioli after reheating for maximum flavor and freshness.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Russet potatoes are ideal for baking because of their starchy texture, which results in a fluffy interior. While you can try other types like Yukon Gold, they may not get as fluffy and could be waxier. Russets give you the classic loaded baked potato experience.
What if I don’t have Italian Garlic Seasoning?
If you don’t have Italian Garlic Seasoning on hand, a simple mix of garlic powder, dried oregano, parsley, and a pinch of salt will work beautifully as a substitute. It will still infuse the butter with flavorful aromatics.
Is there a substitute for Bacon Aioli?
If you can’t find Bacon Aioli, you can make a quick version by mixing mayonnaise with finely chopped cooked bacon and a little garlic powder. This keeps the creamy, smoky taste that makes the recipe so special.
Can this recipe be made vegan or dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use a dairy-free butter substitute and vegan cheddar-style shreds. Swap out the bacon aioli for a smoky vegan mayo or avocado-based sauce. The green onions add fresh, bright flavor that’s naturally vegan-friendly.
How do I make the potatoes crispy on the outside?
Coating the potatoes evenly with oil and baking them directly on the oven rack allows the skins to crisp nicely. You can also finish under a broiler for a couple of minutes if you want extra crispiness without drying the inside.
Final Thoughts
This Loaded Baked Potatoes with Cheddar, Bacon Aioli, and Green Onions Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a celebration in every bite yet is so approachable to make anytime. The blend of textures and flavors—from fluffy potato to creamy butter, melted cheese, smoky aioli, and fresh green onions—creates a perfect harmony that’s absolutely addictive. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll quickly become a beloved staple in your recipe collection. Go ahead and dive into this cozy comfort food masterpiece!
Print
Loaded Baked Potatoes with Cheddar, Bacon Aioli, and Green Onions Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These Loaded Baked Potatoes are a comforting and flavorful side dish featuring perfectly baked russet potatoes topped with a savory garlic butter, melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon aioli, and a fresh touch of green onions. Perfect for a hearty family meal or a satisfying snack.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 4 medium russet potatoes, scrubbed clean
- Avocado or olive oil cooking spray
- Salt and pepper, to taste (optional)
Garlic Butter
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon Italian Garlic Seasoning
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded mild Cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup Bacon Aioli
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the optimal baking temperature for the potatoes.
- Prepare Potatoes: Lightly spray the russet potatoes with avocado or olive oil cooking spray to help crisp the skins. Season them with salt and pepper if desired. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack for even heat circulation and bake for about 50 minutes or until a fork easily pierces the potatoes, indicating they are tender inside.
- Make Garlic Butter: While the potatoes bake, combine the softened butter with 1 tablespoon of Italian Garlic Seasoning in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly until the seasoning is evenly distributed, then set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Assemble Potatoes: After the potatoes are baked, carefully cut each one open to create a pocket. Dollop the prepared garlic butter onto the hot potato so it melts into the flesh. Sprinkle generously with shredded mild Cheddar cheese to add creamy richness. Drizzle with ¼ cup of Bacon Aioli for a smoky, tangy flavor. Finally, garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh, mild onion bite if using.
Notes
- Use a fork to test the doneness of the potatoes; it should slide in effortlessly.
- For crispier skins, you can bake the potatoes directly on the oven rack without wrapping them.
- Italian Garlic Seasoning can be substituted with garlic powder and dried Italian herbs if unavailable.
- Bacon Aioli can be found in stores or homemade by mixing mayonnaise with cooked bacon bits and a touch of garlic.
- Optional green onions add a fresh contrast but can be omitted if preferred.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
