These steakhouse baked potatoes are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Topped with butter, sour cream, and chives, they make a perfect side for any meal!
Honestly, I can’t resist loading them up with all the toppings! Every bite is like a cozy hug. I love having these with steak or just on their own—they’re that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are the best for baking because they have a fluffy interior. If you’re in a pinch, you can use Yukon gold potatoes, but the texture will be different—less fluffy, and a bit creamier.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and promotes crispiness. You could swap it with melted butter for a richer taste or even vegetable oil if that’s what you have on hand.
Cheddar Cheese: I love shredded sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. If you want something milder, try Monterey Jack or even a mix of cheeses. Vegan cheese works if you’re avoiding dairy.
Sour Cream: A classic topping! Greek yogurt is a great substitute for a healthier twist. For dairy-free options, check out coconut yogurt or cashew cream.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a nice crunch. If you’re vegetarian, crispy fried onions or sunflower seeds can provide a similar texture. You could also skip it altogether for a lighter version.
How Do You Bake Potatoes Perfectly for Maximum Crispiness?
Baking potatoes properly is essential to get that crispy skin and fluffy inside. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat your oven to a high temperature. 425°F is perfect for a crispy skin.
- Scrub the potatoes well; dirt on the skin can lead to an unpleasant taste.
- Poke the potatoes with a fork several times. This lets steam escape and prevents them from bursting in the oven.
- Coating with olive oil and seasoning them with salt and pepper is key. The oil helps crisp the skin while the salt adds flavor.
- Place them directly on the oven rack for best results. A baking sheet can be used, but it might trap moisture, keeping the skin softer.
- Cooking time is important. Test for doneness by inserting a fork; it should slide in easily when ready.
Let them cool a bit after baking before cutting into them. This makes them easier to handle without losing steam!
How to Make Best Steakhouse Baked Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (plus more for sprinkling)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For The Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh chives or green onions, chopped
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and 45-60 minutes of baking time. Overall, you’ll be enjoying your delicious steakhouse baked potatoes in about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Potatoes:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven heats up, scrub the russet potatoes under running water until they are clean. Once washed, dry them off with a towel. This will help get that perfect crispy skin!
2. Seasoning the Potatoes:
Using a fork, poke holes in each potato several times. This step is important because it allows steam to escape while they’re baking, preventing them from bursting. Next, rub each potato with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper for flavor.
3. Baking the Potatoes:
Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack for that crispy skin or use a baking sheet if you prefer a cleaner oven. Bake for about 45-60 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re tender inside and the skins are crispy. Just give one a squeeze to check for doneness (careful, they’ll be hot!).
4. Serving the Potatoes:
After baking, remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Carefully cut a slit down the center of each potato and gently press the sides to open them up. Using a fork, fluff up the insides a bit!
5. Adding the Toppings:
Add a generous dollop of sour cream on top of each potato, then sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chives or green onions. Feel free to garnish with fresh parsley if you’d like to give it a pop of color!
6. Enjoy!
Serve your steakhouse-style baked potatoes immediately while they’re warm and gooey. Dig in and savor the deliciousness!
Can I Use a Different Type of Potato?
Yes, you can substitute russet potatoes with Yukon Gold or red potatoes, but keep in mind that russets are ideal for baking due to their fluffy texture. If using waxy potatoes, cooking times may vary, and you won’t get the same crispy skin!
What If I Don’t Have Olive Oil?
Don’t worry! You can use melted butter, canola oil, or another cooking oil you have on hand. Just keep the same amount, as it helps create a crispy skin and adds flavor. Use about 2 tablespoons of your chosen oil or fat!
How to Store Leftover Baked Potatoes
Store any leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through!
Can I Make These Potatoes Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the potatoes ahead by baking them, then storing them in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat them and add your toppings. This can save time if you have a busy meal planned!
