Perfect Baked Potatoes & Potato Bar Ideas 

Trust me, this way of making the perfect baked potato are easy, and you'll never go back to another way. Unless you're in hurry, than you can always airfry or convection this recipe to speed up the process.

4 russet potatoes

½ cup water

2 tablespoons salt

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Topping

4 oz. goat cheese

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons parsley

1 tablespoon shallots

½ teaspoon lemon zest

salt and pepper, to taste

Preheat oven to 450°. Poke about 6 folk holes in each potato. Make a brine with water and salt. We’re not soaking the potatoes in the brine. We’re just putting them in the water and moving them around to coat them all over for just a few seconds. Move potatoes to a sheet try with a wire rack. This will allow circulation during cooking. Place potatoes in the oven until they reach an eternal temperature of 205°which will take about 45 mins to an hour. Once potatoes reach temp, brush them with vegetable oil and put back in the oven for 10 mins. (you can use bacon fat or duck fat, but do not use butter at this point.) While the potato is crisping, put together the toppings. Break up the goat cheese than add in other ingredients. Remove potatoes, no need to squish them they’ve already been temped when removed from the oven the first time. Cut potatoes open immediately, you can do this length wise and then crossways through the middle. Add your choice of toppings, (you can use the one in recipe for a mediterranean flare, always start with a pat of butter.) Note Potatoes offer a blank canvas so what you put on it is your choice, you can go with butter, sour cream, chives | bacon and cheese | cheese and broccoli | chili and cheese You can even switch up your potato variety to include sweet potatoes.

Potato Bar Ideas

Classic toppings Dairy: Butter, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella, and ranch dressing. Savory additions: Crumbled bacon, chives, and steamed broccoli.

Hot and hearty fillings: Chili, A beef or turkey chili can be a meal in itself. A slow cooker keeps it warm and easy to serve. Pulled pork or shredded chicken: Toss with barbecue sauce for a tangy, smoky BBQ spud. Taco meat: Seasoned ground beef or chicken is perfect for a "Taco Tuesday" theme. Philly Cheesesteak: Sautéed ground beef with onions and peppers, topped with provolone cheese.

Vegetarian and vegan options: Black beans and corn: A simple, flavorful topping. Provide salsa and avocado to complete the southwest theme. Sautéed mushrooms and onions: For a rich, savory, and meat-free filling. Roasted vegetables: Use bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for a healthy and colorful option. Vegan chili or chickpeas: A hearty, plant-based protein.

Unexpected and gourmet additions Pesto and sundried tomatoes: For a Mediterranean flair, top potatoes with mozzarella, pesto, and chopped sundried tomatoes. Blue cheese: Add some funk and creaminess with crumbled blue cheese and bacon bits. Fried onions: A finishing touch that adds a salty crunch. Pickled vegetables: Pickled jalapeños, pickled red onions, or even sauerkraut can cut through the richness of the potato.

Setting up the bar A smart setup ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience for everyone. Keep it warm: Use warming trays for hot toppings like chili or cheese sauce. For the potatoes themselves, a slow cooker on the "warm" setting is perfect. Display creatively: Arrange toppings in small bowls or ramekins around the potatoes. Use a large board or platter for an attractive, charcuterie-style display. Label your offerings: Add small cards next to each topping, especially for creative items or those accommodating dietary restrictions. Simplify cleanup: Line your serving area with craft paper to catch any spills, which makes cleanup a breeze. Provide serving utensils: Set out spoons, tongs, and knives for easy self-serving.