Save A baked potato bar is a fun, interactive meal where everyone can build their own loaded potato with a variety of toppings. It's easy to set up and lets guests customize their plate for both flavor and dietary needs.
My first baked potato bar was such a hit that it quickly became a regular family tradition. I love watching kids and adults get creative with their toppings and tasting everyone's unique combinations.
Ingredients
- Potatoes: 6 large russet potatoes, scrubbed clean
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Kosher salt: 1 tsp
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 cup
- Sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt): 1 cup
- Green onions: 4, thinly sliced
- Unsalted butter: 4 tbsp
- Bacon (optional): 6 strips, cooked and crumbled
- Black beans: 1 can (15 oz/425 g), rinsed and drained
- Frozen corn: 1 cup, thawed
- Diced tomatoes: 1 cup
- Broccoli florets: 1 cup, steamed
- Pickled jalapeños: 1/2 cup, sliced
- Salsa: 1/2 cup
- Fresh parsley or cilantro: 1/2 cup, chopped
- Feta or goat cheese: 1/2 cup, crumbled
- Ham: 1/2 cup, cooked and chopped
- Hot sauce or sriracha: To taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
- Prep Potatoes:
- Prick each potato several times with a fork. Rub with olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt.
- Bake Potatoes:
- Place the potatoes directly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until skins are crisp and potatoes are easily pierced with a fork.
- Prepare Toppings:
- While the potatoes bake, cook and crumble bacon if using, chop vegetables, and arrange all toppings in separate bowls.
- Slice and Fluff:
- Remove potatoes from the oven. Let cool slightly, then slice open lengthwise and fluff the insides with a fork.
- Set Up Bar:
- Serve potatoes with toppings arranged buffet-style and let everyone build their own loaded baked potato.
Save This potato bar is always a crowd-pleaser at family birthdays and holidays, especially when kids get involved in setting out the bowls of toppings together.
Required Tools
You'll need a baking sheet, fork, small bowls for toppings, knife, and cutting board to prepare and serve the potato bar.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese, butter, sour cream, yogurt) and possible pork (bacon, ham). The recipe is gluten-free if you check processed toppings. For egg, soy, or nut allergies, review labels of packaged ingredients.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (without bacon or optional extras): 340 calories, 8 g total fat, 58 g carbohydrates, 10 g protein.
Save Try offering a variety of toppings for even more fun. Everyone gets their perfect potato, and cleanup is a breeze!
Recipe Guide
- → How do I ensure potatoes bake evenly?
Prick the potatoes several times with a fork and bake directly on a lined baking sheet at 425°F until skins are crisp and the insides are soft.
- → What potatoes work best for this dish?
Russet potatoes are ideal due to their size and fluffy interior, but sweet potatoes can be used for a different flavor.
- → Can this be made vegan-friendly?
Yes, substitute dairy toppings with vegan cheese, plant-based butter, and non-dairy sour cream or yogurt alternatives.
- → How can I keep toppings affordable yet flavorful?
Use pantry staples like black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and fresh herbs to create variety without increasing cost.
- → What drink pairs well with this meal?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager complements the savory and fresh aspects of the potatoes and toppings.