These Best Steakhouse Baked Potatoes are soft, fluffy, and oh-so-delicious! Topped with creamy butter, savory sour cream, and fresh chives, they are simply irresistible!
Honestly, what’s better than a perfectly baked potato alongside a juicy steak? I sometimes make these as a meal on their own—so satisfying and easy to whip up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are the best choice for baked potatoes due to their starchy texture and fluffy interior. If you’re in a pinch, you could use Yukon gold potatoes, but they will be creamier.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds a nice flavor and helps the skin crisp up. If you don’t have it, canola or vegetable oil works too. Just avoid oils with strong flavors.
Kosher Salt: This salt enhances the flavor of the potatoes. If you only have table salt, use less since it’s finer. Sea salt is also a great option!
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its strong flavor. You can substitute with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a little heat. Vegan cheese works if you want a dairy-free option.
Bacon: Cooked bacon adds a delicious crunch. For a vegetarian alternative, try using crispy fried onion pieces or smoked paprika to add depth of flavor.
Chives or Green Onions: These fresh herbs brighten up the dish. If you can’t find either, chopped parsley works well for garnish.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crisp on Baked Potatoes?
The key to a crispy skin lies in prepping your potatoes properly. Start by scrubbing them well under cold water. Dry them completely with a towel to avoid steaming. Fork-pricking is vital as it allows steam to escape, preventing explosions!
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) for best results.
- Coat the potatoes thoroughly with olive oil and sprinkle kosher salt evenly over them.
- Placing them directly on the rack allows heat to circulate, enhancing the crispiness.
- Don’t rush the baking. Let them roast until they have nice, crispy skins and are soft inside, around 45-60 minutes.
Best Steakhouse Baked Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
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 (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 45-60 minutes to bake. In total, you can expect to spend about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes to enjoy your delicious steakhouse baked potatoes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures that the potatoes will bake perfectly and produce a crispy skin.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Scrub the russet potatoes under cold running water to clean them. Make sure to dry them well with a towel afterward. This step is important for achieving that crispy skin we all love!
3. Poke and Oil the Potatoes:
Using a fork, poke each potato several times. This allows steam to escape while baking. Next, rub the potatoes with olive oil to enhance the flavor and crispiness. Then, sprinkle them with kosher salt to coat evenly.
4. Bake the Potatoes:
Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake for about 45-60 minutes. They are done when the skins are crisp and a fork can easily pierce through each potato.
5. Fluff and Top the Potatoes:
Once the potatoes are cooked, carefully remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Slice the top of each potato lengthwise. Gently push the ends towards each other to fluff the insides of each potato.
6. Add the Delicious Toppings:
Now comes the fun part! Top each potato with shredded cheddar cheese, a generous dollop of sour cream, and sprinkle on the crumbled bacon. Finally, garnish with chopped chives or green onions. If you want to add a little extra color, feel free to sprinkle on some fresh parsley!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your steakhouse-style baked potatoes immediately while they are hot. Enjoy them as a side with your favorite steak, or have them on their own—they’re simply delicious!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
While russet potatoes are best for that fluffy texture, you can use Yukon gold or red potatoes if you prefer. Just keep in mind that they may not get as fluffy, and the cooking time might vary slightly, so check for doneness with a fork before removing them from the oven.
How Can I Make These Potatoes Ahead of Time?
You can bake the potatoes a day in advance. Just let them cool completely, wrap them tightly in foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, then proceed with toppings!
Can I Freeze Baked Potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze baked potatoes! Once cooled, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They’ll last for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and heat them in the oven as mentioned above.
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
The possibilities are endless! Try adding toppings like sautéed mushrooms, jalapeños, roasted garlic, or even chili for a different twist. You can also switch up the cheese to mozzarella or blue cheese for unique flavor profiles.
