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Quick Loaded Baked Potato Bar Recipe

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A quick and easy loaded baked potato bar that comes together in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Customize with a variety of toppings for a comforting and flavorful meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium-sized russet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs / 700g)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (30 ml)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (100g)
  • ½ cup bacon bits or pre-cooked bacon (50g)
  • ½ cup sour cream (120 ml)
  • 3–4 stalks chopped green onions
  • 1 cup steamed broccoli florets (optional, 150g)
  • 2 tbsp butter (optional, 30g)
  • Salted butter or herb butter (optional)
  • 1 cup chili (store-bought or homemade, 240 ml, optional)
  • ½ cup avocado slices or guacamole (120g, optional)
  • Jalapeño slices or hot sauce (optional)
  • Black olives, diced tomatoes, or corn kernels (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash russet potatoes thoroughly under cold water and pat dry.
  2. Poke several holes all over each potato with a fork to allow steam to escape.
  3. Place potatoes on a microwave-safe plate and microwave on high for 8 to 10 minutes, turning halfway through. Potatoes should be soft inside but still hold their shape.
  4. Alternatively, preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake potatoes for 40–45 minutes.
  5. While potatoes cook, chop green onions, steam broccoli florets until tender (about 3–4 minutes), and warm any extras like chili in a small saucepan or microwave. Shred cheese if needed.
  6. Slice each potato lengthwise down the center without cutting all the way through. Gently push the ends toward each other to fluff the inside and create space for toppings.
  7. Brush potato skins lightly with olive oil or melted butter, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
  8. Place potatoes on a baking sheet and return to the oven for 5 minutes if you want crispier skins and melty cheese; otherwise, skip this step.
  9. Let everyone pile on toppings as desired: cheese first to melt slightly, then bacon bits, sour cream, green onions, and any extras.
  10. Serve immediately and encourage customization at the table.

Notes

Microwaving is fastest, but oven finishing crisps skins and melts cheese better. Poke holes in potatoes to prevent explosions. Fluff potato insides gently to hold toppings. Keep toppings separate to avoid soggy potatoes. Can be adapted for vegetarian, dairy-free, and low-carb diets.

Nutrition

Keywords: loaded baked potato, quick dinner, easy dinner, potato bar, weeknight meal, customizable, comfort food

Find it online: https://merrymorsel.com/quick-loaded-baked-potato-bar-recipe-15-minutes-easy-dinner-idea/