Loaded Baked Potato

Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, this Loaded Baked Potato is piled high with melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, butter, sour cream, and fresh chives. Whether you're serving it as a comforting side dish or an easy meal, this classic recipe is simple to make and always a family favorite.

Cook Time

Servings

Difficulty

45 minutes

Easy

Prep Time

10 Minutes

Ingredients

☐ 4 medium Russet potatoes

☐ 1 cup water

☐ ¼ cup butter, melted

☐ 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

☐ ½ cup crispy crumbled bacon

☐ ½ cup sour cream

☐ 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

☐ Salt, to taste

☐ Black pepper, to taste

Ingredients

Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly. Pierce each potato several times with a fork.
Pour 1 cup of water into the Instant Pot and place the trivet inside. Arrange the potatoes on the trivet.
Lock the lid and set the valve to Sealing. Pressure cook on High Pressure for 15 minutes.
Allow a 10-minute natural pressure release, then carefully release any remaining pressure.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
Brush each potato with the melted butter and place them in the air fryer. Cook for 8–10 minutes, or until the skins are golden brown and crispy.
Slice each potato open and gently fluff the inside with a fork. Season with salt and black pepper.
Top with butter, shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, sour cream, and chopped chives. Serve immediately while hot.

RECIPE TIPS

Russet potatoes produce the fluffiest baked potatoes.
Brushing with butter before air frying creates an extra crispy skin.
Fluff the potato with a fork before adding toppings so the butter melts throughout.
Set up a baked potato bar with extra toppings like broccoli, chili, green onions, or diced ham for an easy family dinner.
Serve immediately for the best texture.

🥶 STORAGE

Store leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Store toppings separately when possible.

🔥 Reheating Instructions

Reheat potatoes in a 375°F oven for 15–20 minutes or in the air fryer at 375°F for 5–7 minutes until heated through. Microwave individual potatoes for 2–3 minutes if you're short on time.

Can I bake these in the oven instead?
Yes! Bake at 425°F for 50–60 minutes, depending on the size of the potatoes.
Do I have to use the air fryer?
No. The potatoes are fully cooked after pressure cooking. The air fryer simply crisps the skins.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. Refrigerate the cooked potatoes and crisp them in the air fryer just before serving.
What's the best potato for baking?
Russet potatoes are the best choice because of their fluffy interior and sturdy skin.