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
Scale
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
