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Cozy Graduation Party Loaded Baked Potato Bar Easy Recipe with All Toppings

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A customizable loaded baked potato bar perfect for graduation parties or casual gatherings, featuring crispy baked Russet potatoes and a variety of classic and fresh toppings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 medium Russet potatoes (about 7–8 oz / 200–225 g each)
  • Olive oil or vegetable oil (for rubbing the skins)
  • Coarse sea salt
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 200 g)
  • 1 cup sour cream (240 ml)
  • 4 tablespoons butter, softened (56 g)
  • 1 cup bacon bits or cooked, crumbled bacon (100 g)
  • 3–4 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (150 g)
  • 1–2 jalapeños, diced (optional)
  • 1 cup steamed broccoli florets (90 g)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or chives
  • Black pepper and garlic powder for seasoning
  • Optional: ½ cup salsa
  • Optional: ½ cup guacamole

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Wash and dry the Russet potatoes thoroughly, scrubbing the skins clean if possible.
  3. Rub each potato with about 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of olive oil and sprinkle generously with coarse sea salt.
  4. Prick each potato 4-5 times with a fork to let steam escape during baking.
  5. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet lined with foil.
  6. Bake for 45-60 minutes, until skins are crisp and a fork slides in easily.
  7. While potatoes bake, prepare toppings: shred cheese, cook and crumble bacon (or prepare vegetarian protein), chop green onions, tomatoes, jalapeños, and steam broccoli. Arrange in small bowls.
  8. Once potatoes are done, remove carefully and let cool for 5 minutes before slicing open lengthwise.
  9. Fluff the potato flesh gently with a fork, then add a pat of butter, a dollop of sour cream, and sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
  10. Invite guests to top their potatoes with their favorite combinations of cheese, bacon, veggies, salsa, guacamole, and garnish with fresh parsley or chives.

Notes

For crispier skins, rub potatoes with oil and coarse salt before baking. To speed up baking, microwave potatoes for 5-6 minutes then finish in the oven for 20-25 minutes. Store leftovers separately and reheat potatoes in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to revive crispiness. Offer a variety of toppings to satisfy all guests. For vegan versions, use dairy-free sour cream and cheese alternatives and swap bacon bits for smoked tempeh or mushrooms.

Nutrition

Keywords: loaded baked potato, potato bar, graduation party recipe, easy party food, customizable toppings, comfort food

Find it online: https://realityeats.com/cozy-graduation-party-loaded-baked-potato-bar-easy-recipe-with-all-toppings/