Loaded Baked Ranch Potatoes are a delicious and hearty side dish that combines the flavors of baked potatoes with ranch seasoning, cheese, bacon, and green onions. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, barbecues, or as a comforting side to any meal.

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes (scrubbed and pierced with a fork)
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing (or ranch seasoning mix)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon (crumbled)
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup green onions (sliced)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Olive oil (for drizzling)

Timing

Making the Loaded Baked Ranch Potatoes takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 1 hour for baking.

Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Potatoes

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare Potatoes: Rub the scrubbed potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Place them directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet.
3. Bake: Bake the potatoes for about 45-60 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 2: Prepare the Toppings

1. Cook Bacon: While the potatoes are baking, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from the skillet and crumble into pieces.
2. Mix Ranch Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the ranch dressing with a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Loaded Potatoes

1. Remove Potatoes: Once the potatoes are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
2. Slice Open: Cut each potato lengthwise down the center, being careful not to cut all the way through. Gently squeeze the ends to open them up.
3. Add Ranch Dressing: Drizzle the ranch dressing inside each potato.
4. Top with Cheese and Bacon: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon generously over the potatoes.
5. Return to Oven: Place the loaded potatoes back in the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 4: Serve

1. Garnish: Remove from the oven and top with sour cream and sliced green onions.
2. Enjoy: Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Loaded Baked Ranch Potatoes!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of the Loaded Baked Ranch Potatoes (per potato, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	380
Protein	12g
Fat	20g
Carbohydrates	43g
Fiber	4g
Sugar	2g

Tips for Customization

• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack or mozzarella for varied flavors.
• Vegetable Additions: Add toppings like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or avocado for extra flavor and texture.
• Make it Spicy: Use spicy ranch dressing or add hot sauce to the ranch mixture for a kick.

Conclusion

Loaded Baked Ranch Potatoes are a flavorful and satisfying side dish that brings together the best of baked potatoes and ranch flavors. Perfect for any occasion, these potatoes are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy this delightful recipe!