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
Lentils, pre-cooked
- 2 cups
(look for canned or vacuum-packed)
Foil
- for baking
Oil, cooking
- 1 Tbsp
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)
Spice mix - Combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, and coriander. (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.
Lentils - If using canned lentils, drain and rinse.
Unlock this meal along with hundreds of smart meal plans and never stress about "What's for dinner?" again
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.
When potatoes are nearly finished cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add oil and then lentils and spice mix and saute until spices are fragrant and lentils are warm, 3 to 4 minutes. Set aside.
Set out toppings - lentils, cheese, onions, broccoli, chives, tomatoes, olives, 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!