Save A hearty, comforting dish featuring fluffy baked potatoes topped with savory chili, creamy beans, and melted cheese. Perfect for a quick meal or customizable family dinner.
I first tried loaded baked potato with chili and cheese on a busy weeknight and was amazed how easy it was to bring together a filling, delicious dinner everyone enjoyed. The combination of creamy potatoes and flavorful chili became an instant comfort food staple for us.
Ingredients
- Potatoes: 4 large russet potatoes, scrubbed, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp sea salt
- Chili & Beans: 2 cups prepared chili (meat or vegetarian), 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- Toppings: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/4 cup chopped green onions, 1/4 cup diced tomatoes, 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional), Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Potatoes:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Prick each potato several times with a fork, rub with olive oil, and sprinkle with sea salt.
- Bake Potatoes:
- Place potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until skins are crisp and flesh is tender.
- Heat Chili & Beans:
- While potatoes bake, heat chili and black beans together in a saucepan over medium heat until hot, stirring occasionally.
- Prepare Baked Potatoes:
- Remove potatoes from the oven, let cool slightly, then slice each lengthwise and gently fluff the insides with a fork.
- Add Chili & Beans:
- Spoon the chili and bean mixture evenly over each potato.
- Add Toppings:
- Top with shredded cheese (allow to melt), then add sour cream, green onions, diced tomatoes, and jalapeño slices as desired. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve:
- Serve hot, with additional toppings on the side if desired.
Save This dish reminds me of cozy family nights when everyone gets excited to choose their own favorite toppings and help assemble their potatoes at the table. It always brings a fun, interactive dinner moment for us.
Required Tools
Oven, baking sheet (optional), saucepan, knife, fork
Allergen Information
Contains dairy in cheese and sour cream, is gluten-free if using appropriate chili and toppings. Always check labels for potential allergens or cross-contamination.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides about 480 calories, 17 g total fat, 62 g carbohydrates, and 18 g protein.
Save This loaded baked potato recipe is the perfect balance of comforting and customizable. Your family and guests will love making their own creations at the table.
Recipe Guide
- → What type of potatoes work best?
Russet potatoes are ideal due to their fluffy texture when baked and crisp skin.
- → Can the chili be made vegetarian?
Yes, using vegetarian chili or plant-based chili maintains flavor while keeping it meat-free.
- → How can I make the dish vegan-friendly?
Substitute dairy cheese and sour cream with vegan alternatives to suit a vegan diet.
- → What toppings complement the loaded potatoes?
Fresh diced tomatoes, green onions, jalapeños, sour cream, and avocado add texture and flavor diversity.
- → How do I ensure the potatoes cook evenly?
Prick the potatoes with a fork and bake directly on the oven rack for crisp skin and even cooking.
- → Can I prepare this dish gluten-free?
Yes, ensure the chili and toppings used are gluten-free to maintain a gluten-free meal.