Baked Potato Bonanza

Cost

Step-By-Step

1. Choose the Right Potato: While any potato can be baked, russet potatoes are often the preferred choice due to their fluffy texture. Make sure to scrub them clean and dry them thoroughly.

2. Pierce and Season: To avoid exploding potatoes, use a fork to pierce the skin a few times. Rub the potatoes with a bit of olive oil and sprinkle them with salt. This enhances both the flavor and the crispy texture of the skin.

3. Bake: Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake at around 400°F (200°C) for about 45 minutes to an hour. The exact time depends on the size of the potatoes.

4. Test for Doneness: To check if they’re done, insert a fork or knife into the center. If it goes in easily and the interior is soft, they’re ready.

5. Top and Fill: Load each potato with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, salt, and pepper.

Baked Potato Bonanza

Cuisine:American Courses:Dinner

Difficulty:BeginnerPrep time: 5 minutesCook time: 45 minutesRest time: minutesTotal time: 50 minutesServings:4 servings Best Season:Fall

Description

Embrace the baked potato bonanza! Load up fluffy spuds with a plethora of toppings, from cheese and sour cream to crispy bacon bits. It’s a DIY potato party waiting to happen in your dorm kitchen.

Ingredients

• 4 medium-sized russet potatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and scrub the potatoes, then pat them dry.
3. Pierce the potatoes several times with a fork to allow steam to escape.
4. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Remove the baked potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
6. Cut a slit in the top of each potato and fluff the insides with a fork.
7. Load each potato with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, salt, and pepper.

Notes

• Other Topping Ideas:
• Chili and Cheese: Smother your spud in chili (vegetarian or meat-based) and top it with melted cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese.
• Bacon and Ranch: Crispy bacon bits and a drizzle of creamy ranch dressing create a delightful combination.
• Broccoli and Cheese: Steamed broccoli florets and a generous amount of cheese sauce turn your baked potato into a flavorful side dish.
• Loaded Mediterranean: Top with Greek yogurt, diced cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and a sprinkle of feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
• Pesto and Parmesan: Pesto sauce and grated Parmesan cheese offer a burst of vibrant, herbaceous flavor.
• Tex-Mex Fiesta: Black beans, corn, salsa, and sliced jalapeños with a dollop of guacamole make for a Tex-Mex delight.