Pin A baked potato bar is a fun and interactive meal that lets everyone build their own plate with perfectly baked potatoes and an array of affordable, flavorful toppings. It&s ideal for gatherings, family dinners, or casual get-togethers when you want something easy and customizable.
The first time I made a baked potato bar for friends, it turned dinner into a lively event and everyone loved mixing and matching their own combinations. It&s a wonderful way to keep both kids and adults happy at the table.
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: 6 strips, cooked and crumbled (optional)
- Black beans: 1 can (15 oz/425 g), rinsed and drained
- Corn: 1 cup frozen, thawed
- Tomatoes: 1 cup, diced
- 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 (optional)
- Cooked chopped ham: 1/2 cup (optional)
- 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.
- Prepare 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 potatoes bake, prepare the toppings: 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.
- Serve:
- Set up the baked potato bar: serve potatoes with toppings arranged buffet-style. Let everyone build their own loaded baked potato.
Pin My kids always get excited choosing their own toppings, and it&s become our go-to dinner on movie nights or when we have extended family visiting.
Required Tools
For a smooth setup, use a baking sheet, fork, cutting board, knife, and several small bowls to keep toppings organized and easy to access for everyone.
Allergen Information
This baked potato bar contains dairy and may include pork if bacon or ham is used. It’s naturally gluten-free but always check labels on packaged toppings, especially for egg, soy, or nut allergies.
Nutritional Information
Each serving (without bacon or optional extras) has about 340 calories, 8 g total fat, 58 g carbohydrates, and 10 g protein, making it a hearty and balanced meal option.
Pin Serve your baked potato bar fresh from the oven and let everyone enjoy building their own unique creation. It&s sure to become a family favorite.
Recipe Q&A
- → What type of potatoes work best?
Large russet potatoes are ideal for their fluffy interiors and crisp skins after baking.
- → How do I get crispy potato skins?
Coating the potatoes in olive oil and kosher salt before baking at high heat ensures a crisp skin texture.
- → Can I prepare toppings ahead of time?
Yes, chopping vegetables, cooking bacon, and arranging toppings in bowls before baking saves time and streamlines serving.
- → What are good vegan topping options?
Use plant-based cheeses, nondairy sour creams, and plenty of fresh vegetables and herbs for flavorful vegan choices.
- → How long do the potatoes take to bake?
Baking 6 large potatoes typically takes 55 to 65 minutes at 425°F (220°C) until skins are crisp and interiors tender.
- → What tools are needed for serving?
A baking sheet, fork for fluffing, knives, and small bowls for toppings help set up the bar smoothly.