These steakhouse baked potatoes are fluffy, buttery, and just the right amount of crispy on the outside. They’re the perfect sidekick to any meal, especially steak!
I love loading mine up with toppings like sour cream and chives. Honestly, is there anything better than a potato that’s as cozy as a warm blanket? 🥔❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are ideal for baking due to their starchy content, which creates a fluffy interior. If you can’t find russets, Yukon Golds work too but will be creamier in texture.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps create a crispy skin. For a different taste, avocado oil or melted butter can be used in its place.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its strong flavor, but feel free to swap with Monterey Jack or a dairy-free cheese if needed.
Sour Cream: This gives a nice tang. Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute if you’re looking for a healthier option.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a savory crunch. For a vegetarian version, you could use crispy chickpeas or omit it altogether.
How Do I Bake Perfect Potatoes with Crispy Skin?
Getting that perfect crisp on the potato skin requires a few simple steps. First, remembering to pierce the potatoes is crucial; it prevents them from bursting due to steam inside. The olive oil adds moisture, so the skins crisp up nicely.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) for even baking.
- Scrub and dry your potatoes thoroughly to ensure the skin crisps up rather than steams.
- Coat them in olive oil and sprinkle with coarse salt to enhance flavor and crunch.
With these tips, you’re on your way to achieving that steakhouse-style texture and flavor!
How to Make Best Steakhouse Baked Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Baked Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Coarse sea salt (to taste)
For Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- ¼ cup fresh chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Butter (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and around 45-60 minutes for baking. In total, you can have these delicious steakhouse baked potatoes ready in about 1 hour! Simple and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Potatoes:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven warms up, scrub the russet potatoes under cold water to clean them, then dry them thoroughly with a towel.
2. Season the Potatoes:
Next, pierce each potato several times with a fork. This is important because it allows steam to escape while they bake. Now, rub each potato with olive oil and sprinkle them generously with coarse sea salt.
3. Bake Them to Perfection:
Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet. Bake them for about 45-60 minutes. They are ready when the skins are crispy and a fork easily goes through the flesh inside. Keep an eye on them after about 45 minutes to make sure they don’t overbake.
4. Fluff and Add Toppings:
Once baked, remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Carefully cut a slit along the top of each potato and gently squeeze the sides to open them up. Fluff the insides with a fork, adding a pat of butter if you wish.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time for the best part! Top each potato with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, crumbled bacon, and sprinkle some fresh chives or parsley on top. Serve them hot and enjoy your delicious steakhouse-style baked potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
While russet potatoes are ideal for baking due to their fluffy texture, you can use other varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary; check for doneness with a fork to ensure they’re tender inside.
How to Store Leftover Baked Potatoes?
Store any leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave on a plate for a quicker option.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can bake the potatoes a few hours ahead of serving. Simply wrap them in foil after baking and keep them warm in a low oven (around 200°F or 90°C). Add toppings just before serving for the best taste and texture!
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream?
If you’re looking for a substitute, Greek yogurt or cottage cheese work great in place of sour cream. They provide a similar creaminess with a slightly different flavor, and they’re a bit healthier too. Just add a squeeze of lemon or lime for extra tang, if you like!