Hey there! You are about to make the BEST loaded BBQ baked potatoes. This recipe is packed with smoky, cheesy, and creamy goodness. The trick? The way I layer the ingredients makes sure every bite is loaded with flavor.
And don’t worry, I’ll show you how to get that crispy potato skin while keeping the inside soft and fluffy. Let’s get started.
Utensils You Need
These are the utensils and/or equipment you need to make this recipe:
- Baking sheet
- Fork
- Large mixing bowl
- Sharp knife
- Spoon
- Aluminum foil (optional)
- Tongs
- Cheese grater
- Skillet
Important Info
- Servings: 4 large loaded potatoes
- Estimated Cost: Around $10, depending on the toppings you choose
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Additional Time: None
- Calories per Serving: About 450 kcal
- Cook Method: Baking
- Season: Perfect year-round
- Courses: Main Course, Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
- Diets: GlutenFreeDiet
How to Make Loaded BBQ Baked Potatoes
Now I am going to tell you what ingredients you need to make this dish and how to make it.
Ingredients You Need
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked shredded BBQ chicken (or pulled pork)
- ½ cup BBQ sauce
- ½ cup sour cream
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 green onions, chopped
Alternative Ingredients
If you do not have the ingredients I listed above, do not worry. You can swap them out for the alternatives below.
| Ingredient | Alternative Option |
|---|---|
| Russet potatoes | Sweet potatoes |
| Olive oil | Melted butter |
| Cheddar cheese | Mozzarella or pepper jack |
| BBQ chicken | Pulled pork or beef brisket |
| Sour cream | Greek yogurt |
| Green onions | Chives or parsley |
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Scrub the potatoes clean and pat them dry. Poke each potato several times with a fork.
- Rub the potatoes with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake for about 50-60 minutes until the potatoes are crispy on the outside and soft inside. You can check by inserting a fork—it should slide in easily.
- While the potatoes are baking, heat the BBQ sauce and mix it with the shredded chicken or pulled pork. Keep warm.
- Once the potatoes are done, let them cool slightly before cutting a slit down the middle. Be careful—it’s hot!
- Fluff the inside with a fork, then add shredded cheese while the potato is still warm so it melts.
- Spoon the BBQ meat mixture on top.
- Add a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle crumbled bacon and chopped green onions on top.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Helpful Tips
- For crispy skin, bake the potatoes directly on the oven rack instead of a baking sheet.
- Want a smoky flavor? Add a little smoked paprika to the BBQ sauce.
- Short on time? Microwave the potatoes for 5 minutes before baking to speed up the cooking process.
- Cheese lovers can add an extra layer of cheese and broil for 2 minutes for a golden, bubbly top.
- Make it vegetarian by swapping out the meat for BBQ jackfruit or black beans.
What to Serve with Loaded BBQ Baked Potatoes
This meal is already filling, but you can serve it with a simple coleslaw, a fresh green salad, or a side of cornbread. If you’re making this for a cookout, add some grilled corn or baked beans.
How Do You Serve the Recipe?
Serve these BBQ baked potatoes on a large plate with a fork and knife. If you’re serving them at a party, you can slice them into halves and let guests add their own toppings.
Where Do You Serve This Recipe the Most?
This is perfect for backyard BBQs, game nights, and casual family dinners. You can also make it for potlucks because it’s easy to transport and stays warm for a long time.
Storage
Short-term Storage (Room Temperature)
- If you have leftovers, keep them uncovered at room temperature for no more than 2 hours. After that, store them properly.
Refrigeration
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Freezing
- Wrap each baked potato in foil and store them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat directly in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use sweet potatoes instead?
Yes, you can use sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter taste. The texture will be softer, but it works great with BBQ flavors.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Bake the potatoes and prepare the toppings separately. When ready to serve, reheat the potatoes and add the toppings fresh.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda work well too. Use a mix for extra flavor.
How do I keep the potatoes warm for a party?
Wrap them in foil and keep them in a warm oven (around 200°F) until ready to serve.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the BBQ meat for black beans, BBQ jackfruit, or roasted mushrooms.