Baked Potato Bar (Printable)

A fun meal featuring baked potatoes and a range of flavorful, affordable toppings to customize.

# What You Need:

→ Potatoes

01 - 6 large russet potatoes, scrubbed clean
02 - 2 tbsp olive oil
03 - 1 tsp kosher salt

→ Classic Toppings

04 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
05 - 1 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
06 - 4 green onions, thinly sliced
07 - 4 tbsp unsalted butter
08 - 6 strips cooked crumbled bacon (optional)

→ Affordable & Inexpensive Toppings

09 - 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
10 - 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
11 - 1 cup diced tomatoes
12 - 1 cup steamed broccoli florets
13 - ½ cup pickled jalapeños, sliced
14 - ½ cup salsa
15 - ½ cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro

→ Optional Extras

16 - ½ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
17 - ½ cup cooked chopped ham
18 - Hot sauce or sriracha, to taste

# How-To:

01 - Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
02 - Prick each potato several times with a fork. Rub evenly with olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt.
03 - Place potatoes directly on the baking sheet. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes until skins are crisp and potatoes can be easily pierced with a fork.
04 - While potatoes cook, prepare toppings: cook and crumble bacon if using, chop vegetables, and arrange all toppings in separate bowls.
05 - Remove potatoes from oven and allow to cool slightly. Slice open lengthwise and fluff the insides with a fork.
06 - Arrange potatoes and toppings buffet-style for self-customization and serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Customizable for all tastes and diets
  • Easy to prepare and budget-friendly for groups
02 -
  • This meal is naturally gluten-free; double-check labels for processed toppings to ensure.
  • For a vegan option, offer plant-based cheese, butter, and non-dairy yogurt.
03 -
  • For crispier skins, bake potatoes directly on oven rack, then add toppings before serving.
  • Keep toppings warm in small bowls over hot water if serving a large group.
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