Longhorn Baked Potato Recipe

Welcome to my kitchen, where the classic baked potato gets a Longhorn Steakhouse treatment and turns into  a memorable meal.

This recipe gives you just-right crispy skin and a fluffy interior every time.

The secret is in rubbing the potatoes with a bit of salt and wrapping them in foil to bake for a little over an hour.

Top them with butter, sour cream, chives, and crumbled bacon to bring the dish to life.

How to Make Longhorn Baked Potato Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 Russet Potatoes
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 tsp Salt
• ½ tsp Black Pepper
• 4 tbsp Butter
• 4 tbsp Sour Cream
• 2 tbsp Chives (chopped)
• 4 tbsp Bacon (crumbled)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 400°F.

Wash and dry the potatoes thoroughly.

Pierce each potato a few times with a fork.

Step 2:

Rub each potato with olive oil, ensuring an even coating.

Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack.

Step 3:

Bake for around 70 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.

Step 4:

Cut each potato in half lengthwise.

Use a fork to fluff the interior gently.

Step 5:

Top each half with 1 tbsp of butter, 1 tbsp of sour cream, chives, and crumbled bacon.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choose the Right Potato

Russet potatoes work best for this recipe as they provide a fluffy inside and firm skin after baking.

Their starchy texture is perfect for absorbing all the delicious toppings you’ll be adding.

Season Well

Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper when rubbing the potatoes with olive oil!

These simple seasonings play a big role in enhancing the flavor of the baked potato.

Use Room Temperature Butter

Using room temperature butter allows it to melt evenly over the hot potatoes, giving you that creamy texture everyone loves.

It ensures every bite is rich and flavorful.

Check for Doneness

Always check for doneness by piercing the potatoes with a fork.

If the fork slides in easily, they are ready to take out of the oven.

Experiment with Toppings

Feel free to customize your toppings by adding shredded cheese or caramelized onions.

These additional ingredients can add extra flavor to your baked potato masterpiece!

What to Serve with Longhorn Baked Potato Recipe

Grilled Chicken

Grilled chicken is a classic choice when you’re deciding what to pair with a Longhorn baked potato.

The smoky, savory flavors of the chicken balance wonderfully with the creamy texture of the potato.

Season your chicken with a little garlic and rosemary for an extra flavor punch!

Steamed Broccoli

Steamed broccoli is another traditional side that complements a baked potato perfectly.

Its vibrant green color and slightly sweet taste create a refreshing contrast to the richness of the potato.

A little melted butter or lemon juice brings out the best in broccoli.

Garlic Butter Shrimp

For a unique twist, consider serving garlic butter shrimp alongside your baked potatoes.

The combination of buttery shrimp with a hint of garlic pairs with the potato’s creamy interior.

Don’t forget to add a sprinkle of parsley for that extra pop of color.

Caprese Salad

Why not try a Caprese salad for something fresh and out of the ordinary?

The juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil provide a light, aromatic pairing.

Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy finish.

Spicy Roasted Chickpeas

Spicy roasted chickpeas can add an unexpected crunch and heat to your meal.

Roast them with your favorite spices like cumin and chili powder.

These little protein-packed snacks are perfect for adding texture and flavor contrast to your dish!

Variations and Substitutions

Different Toppings

You can try a variety of toppings to customize your Longhorn baked potato to fit your taste.

Consider using shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack for a rich flavor.

Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.

Potato Options

If Russet potatoes aren’t your preference, Yukon Gold potatoes add a creamier texture.

Sweet potatoes can provide a hint of sweetness and pair well with savory toppings.

Seasoning Adjustments

Experiment with herbs like rosemary and thyme for an aromatic touch.

You can also blend in spices like smoked paprika or garlic powder for extra kick.

Healthier Alternatives

Use olive oil instead of butter for a healthier fat option.

Consider turkey bacon as a leaner substitute for traditional bacon.

Dietary Substitutes

For dairy-free diets, explore plant-based butters and cheeses.

Nutritional yeast can serve as a cheese-like seasoning without the dairy.

You can also use coconut cream instead of sour cream for a creamier texture that’s both vegan and dairy-free.

How to Store Leftover Longhorn Baked Potatoes

Let those tasty baked potatoes cool completely before you move on to storing them.

This is a key step in maintaining their delicious texture and flavor for future enjoyment.

Once they’ve cooled, place each potato in an airtight container or wrap them individually in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.

I find that using a sturdy container or tight wrapping helps keep them fresh in the fridge for up to 3 to 5 days.

Freezing for Longer Storage

If you want to keep them even longer, consider freezing your leftovers.

Wrap the potatoes tightly in plastic wrap, then put them in a zip-top freezer bag.

You can keep them frozen for up to 6 months without sacrificing much flavor.

Identifying Potatoes Gone Bad

Check for a funky smell or slimy texture to determine if your potato has gone bad.

Discoloration is another sign that they are no longer good to eat.

Always give them a quick inspection before reheating or serving. Enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overusing Foil

Wrapping baked potatoes in foil might be tempting because it seems convenient.

However, it actually leads to a steamed potato rather than a crispy-skinned version.

Always bake potatoes directly on the oven rack for the best texture.

Skipping the Poke Test

Never forget to poke a few holes in your potatoes before baking.

This helps steam escape and prevents them from bursting in the oven.

It’s a simple step but often overlooked.

Cutting Potatoes Too Soon

When you take potatoes out of the oven, it’s tempting to cut into them immediately.

Wait a couple of minutes before slicing to maintain the right texture.

Letting them rest ensures a fluffy interior and perfect presentation.