americansnack
Loaded Baked Potato (Idaho Style)
Fluffy baked potato topped with bacon, cheese, sour cream and chives.
Prep
5 min
Cook
50 min
Servings
2
Difficulty
Easy
★★★★★
4.6(1,800 ratings)#potato#idaho#baked#side dish
About This Recipe
Idaho's most famous export prepared the best way — a perfectly baked russet potato loaded with crispy bacon, melted cheddar, sour cream and fresh chives.
Ingredients
Serves 2
- 2 largerusset potatoes
- 2 tbspolive oil
- salt and pepperto taste
- 6 slicesbacon(cooked and crumbled)
- 100 gcheddar cheese(shredded)
- ¼ cupsour cream
- fresh chiveschopped
- butterfor serving
Instructions
- 1
Prepare potatoes
Scrub potatoes, prick with fork. Rub with oil, salt and pepper.
- 2
Bake
Bake at 200°C for 45-50 minutes until tender and skin is crispy.
- 3
Slice
Slice potatoes in half lengthwise. Fluff flesh with fork.
- 4
Load
Top with bacon, cheese, sour cream and chives.
- 5
Serve
Serve immediately while hot and cheese is melting.
Pro Tips
- →
Don't wrap in foil — it steams instead of baking.
- →
Prick potatoes to allow steam to escape evenly
- →
Cook bacon first so it's ready when potato finishes
Variations
- •
Add roasted broccoli or jalapeños.
- •
Make it with pulled pork instead of bacon.
- •
Add pico de gallo for a Mexican-inspired version.
- •
Top with truffle oil and crispy shallots for luxury.
Storage
Best served fresh.
History & Origin
The loaded baked potato became iconic American comfort food in the mid-20th century as a casual restaurant side. Idaho potatoes, famous for their quality and size, became synonymous with baked potato dinners. The loaded version with all the toppings represents casual American abundance and hospitality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes an Idaho potato special?
Idaho's volcanic soil and cool climate create large, starchy potatoes perfect for baking. They have fewer eyes and brown skin, making them visually appealing and perfect for loaded baked potatoes.
Can I microwave instead of baking?
Yes, for speed, but baking creates a crispier skin and fluffier interior. Microwave 5-7 minutes for similar results, but texture won't be as good.
How do I make the skin extra crispy?
Bake at higher temperature (425°F) for shorter time (35-40 minutes). Brush skin with oil before baking. Don't wrap in foil.
What's the best way to split the potato?
Slice lengthwise with a sharp knife, leaving skin intact. Use a spoon or fork to fluff the inside. This creates the classic presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (400g / 14.1 oz) · 2 servings total
Calories480kcal
Protein16g
Carbohydrates48g
Fat24g
Fiber4g
Protein16g
Carbs48g
Fat24g
Time Summary
Prep time5 min
Cook time50 min
Total time55 min
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