A baked potato bar is a fun DIY meal that lends itself to using up a variety of leftovers and / or fresh ingredients as toppings. The only change we made to this meal since featuring it in 2018 is to halve the potatoes before roasting to speed up cook time. Smarts: Whole potatoes can be cooked in the Instant Pot. For tips, join the Cook Smarts Instant Pot Facebook Group.
Olives, black and sliced (2.25 oz / 63 g)
- 1 can
, drained and rinsed
Beans, pinto (15 oz / 397 g)
- 1 can
, drained and rinsed
Foil
- for baking
Bacon
- 8 strips
Chili powder
- 1/2 tsp
Cumin
- 1/2 tsp
Sour cream
- 1/2 cup
(sub plain or Greek yogurt)
Salsa
- 1/4 cup
Butter (opt)
- for serving
Prep
Potatoes - Wash and scrub potatoes. (Can be done up to 5 days ahead)
Cheese / Onions / Broccoli - Prep as directed. Store separately. (Can be done up to 5 days ahead)
Broccoli - Place broccoli into a microwave-safe container, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave until tender, ~2 minutes. If using frozen, defrost in the microwave. (Can be done up to 3 days ahead)
Chives / Tomatoes - Prep as directed. (Can be done 1 day ahead)
Olives - Drain and rinse.
Beans - Drain and rinse.
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Heat oven to 425F / 218C. Line a sheet pan with foil.
Slice potatoes in half lengthwise and rub on all sides with some oil. Place potatoes cut-side down on sheet pan. Season the tops with some salt. Transfer to the oven and roast until potatoes can be easily pierced with a fork, ~30 minutes.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add bacon and fry on both sides until crisp, 6 to 8 minutes total.
Transfer bacon to a paper-towel lined plate. Drain off all but 1 Tbsp / 15 mL (for 4 servings; adjust if customizing) of bacon grease. Return pan to heat.
Add beans to heated pan. Saute beans until warmed through. Add chili powder and cumin and saute for 1 minute more. Season with a pinch of salt if needed.
Crumble bacon.
Set out toppings - bacon, cheese, onions, broccoli, chives, tomatoes, olives, beans, sour cream, and salsa.
Spread butter on each potato half (if using) and gently mash with a fork. Have everyone top their potatoes at the table and enjoy!