Loaded Baked Potato from Texas Roadhouse features a fluffy baked potato topped generously with melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, fresh green onions, and a dollop of creamy sour cream, offering a savory and comforting blend of flavors and textures.
Equipments
- Oven
- Baking sheet
- Aluminum foil
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Cheese grater
- Frying pan (for bacon)
- Tongs or spatula
- Mixing bowl (optional, for toppings)
- Spoon
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 green onions
Russet potatoes are ideal for baking due to their fluffy interior and sturdy skin, which holds toppings well. Using kosher salt enhances the potato's natural flavor and helps create a crispier skin when baked. Crispy bacon bits should be cooked until golden for maximum texture contrast in the dish. Fresh green onions add a mild onion flavor and a pop of color, complementing the creamy sour cream topping. Your copycat Loaded Baked Potato from Texas Roadhouse combines these key ingredients for an authentic, savory restaurant experience at home.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Scrub potatoes clean and pat dry.
- Rub potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt.
- Prick potatoes several times with a knife or fork.
- Place potatoes on a foil-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until tender.
- While potatoes bake, cook bacon in a frying pan until crispy.
- Drain bacon on paper towels and crumble into bits.
- Grate the cheddar cheese using a cheese grater.
- Wash and slice green onions on a cutting board.
- When potatoes are done, remove from oven and let cool slightly.
- Slice each potato open lengthwise.
- Fluff the insides of the potatoes with a fork.
- Top each potato with shredded cheddar cheese while still hot.
- Add crumbled bacon on top of the cheese.
- Spoon a dollop of sour cream onto each potato.
- Sprinkle green onions over the top.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
When replicating the Loaded Baked Potato from Texas Roadhouse, you can substitute sharp cheddar with a mild or smoked cheese to suit your taste. If fresh green onions aren't available, chives or finely chopped white onions also provide a similar fresh bite. For a healthier twist, consider turkey bacon or omit bacon altogether and add sauteed mushrooms for extra umami. You can microwave potatoes before baking to reduce overall cooking time but still finish them in the oven to maintain a crispy skin. Make sure to pat crispy bacon bits dry with paper towels to prevent sogginess on your loaded potato.
Tips
Make sure to scrub russet potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt before baking, as the skin is edible and adds texture. Pricking the potatoes multiple times allows steam to escape, preventing them from bursting in the oven. Cooking the bacon until crispy on a frying pan ensures the best texture and flavor for the topping. When you fluff the potato interiors with a fork, it creates a light base that mixes well with melted cheddar cheese and other toppings.
Nutritions
Your Loaded Baked Potato from Texas Roadhouse combines carbohydrates from the russet potatoes with protein and calcium from melted cheddar cheese. Crispy bacon adds savory fats and additional protein, while sour cream contributes creaminess and healthy fats. Green onions provide a small amount of vitamins and antioxidants, enhancing the overall nutritional profile. This dish offers a hearty balance of macronutrients suitable for a satisfying meal.
Storage
Store leftover loaded baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350degF (175degC) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through, preserving the crispy texture of the bacon and melted cheese. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess and maintain the fluffy potato interior for your next meal.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute cheddar cheese with a blend of Monterey Jack and Parmesan for a creamier and more nuanced flavor profile. Instead of frying bacon in a pan, try baking it on a sheet in the oven to reduce grease and achieve even crispiness. To add a smoky twist, mix smoked paprika or chipotle powder into the sour cream before dolloping it on the potatoes. For a vegetarian option, replace bacon bits with sauteed mushrooms or caramelized onions to maintain a savory richness.
Allergies
Loaded Baked Potato contains common allergens such as dairy from cheddar cheese and sour cream, and pork from bacon, which may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. The dish also includes ingredients like green onions and olive oil that are generally safe but might affect those with specific allergies. Always check ingredient labels and consult with your server if you have allergies to ensure your safety.
Why this recipe?
The Loaded Baked Potato menu from Texas Roadhouse is popular for its creamy cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, fresh green onions, and rich sour cream, all layered on a perfectly baked potato. Its hearty ingredients satisfy cravings for both comfort food and a flavorful side dish, making it a favorite among diners. You can recreate this iconic dish at home with a copycat recipe that allows for customization and replicates the restaurant's distinct taste without the wait. Trying the copycat version offers an affordable and convenient way to enjoy this classic Texas Roadhouse favorite anytime.