Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Bacon, Veggies, and Sour Cream Sauce

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## **Ingredients for Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Bacon, Veggies, and Sour Cream Sauce**

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, but the flavor it delivers is anything but basic. Here’s what you’ll need to make this cheesy baked potato delight:

– **4 large russet potatoes** (or any potatoes suitable for baking)
– **1 cup shredded cheddar cheese** (or your favorite cheese)
– **1/2 cup cooked bacon**, crumbled (about 4 slices)
– **1/2 cup broccoli florets** (steamed or roasted)
– **1/2 cup diced bell peppers** (red, green, or a mix)
– **1/4 cup green onions**, chopped (for garnish)
– **1/2 cup sour cream**
– **1 tablespoon mayonnaise**
– **1 teaspoon Dijon mustard** (optional, for a tangy kick)
– **Salt and pepper**, to taste
– **Olive oil** (for greasing the potatoes)

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## **How to Make Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Bacon, Veggies, and Sour Cream Sauce**

### **1. Prepare the Potatoes**
Start by preheating your oven to **400°F (200°C)**. Scrub the russet potatoes clean under running water and pat them dry. Use a fork to poke several holes in each potato, which allows steam to escape while baking and helps them cook evenly. Rub each potato with a little olive oil and sprinkle with salt for a crispy skin.

### **2. Bake the Potatoes**
Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet. Bake for about **45-60 minutes**, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. The exact cooking time will depend on the size of the potatoes. Once they’re done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.

### **3. Prepare the Toppings**
While the potatoes are baking, prepare the toppings:
– **Bacon**: Cook the bacon in a pan over medium heat until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces.
– **Veggies**: Steam or roast the broccoli florets and dice the bell peppers into small pieces.
– **Sour Cream Sauce**: In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard (optional), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.

### **4. Assemble the Loaded Potatoes**
Once the baked potatoes are cool enough to handle, make a slit along the top of each potato and gently squeeze the sides to open it up. Fluff the inside of the potato with a fork to create a light and airy texture.

– **Add the Cheese**: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of the potato, allowing it to melt from the heat of the potato.
– **Top with Veggies and Bacon**: Add a spoonful of the steamed broccoli and diced bell peppers. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the top for that crispy, salty flavor.

### **5. Drizzle with Sour Cream Sauce**
Finish the potatoes by drizzling the creamy sour cream sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh green onions for a burst of color and extra flavor.

### **6. Serve and Enjoy!**
Serve your cheesy baked potatoes immediately while they’re still hot and gooey. These potatoes are great on their own or as a side dish to grilled meats, roasted chicken, or a fresh salad.

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## **Tips for Customizing Your Cheesy Baked Potatoes**

While the classic combination of cheese, bacon, veggies, and sour cream is a winner, feel free to get creative and customize the toppings based on your preferences:

– **Different Cheeses**: Mix and match different cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack for varied textures and flavors.
– **Add Protein**: For a heartier dish, top your potatoes with grilled chicken, shredded beef, or even chili for a loaded potato experience.
– **More Veggies**: Add other veggies like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted onions for extra flavor and nutrients.
– **Spice it Up**: If you like a little heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or a drizzle of hot sauce on top.

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## **Why You’ll Love These Cheesy Baked Potatoes**

These **cheesy baked potatoes with bacon, veggies, and sour cream sauce** are the perfect combination of indulgence and comfort. The crispy bacon, melty cheese, and creamy sauce elevate the humble baked potato into a satisfying meal that will please everyone at the table. Plus, with the added veggies, you can feel good about getting some healthy nutrients while indulging in this delicious dish.

From casual weeknight dinners to special occasions, this recipe is sure to be a hit. It’s comforting, flavorful, and easy to make—what’s not to love?

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## **Serving Suggestions**

Cheesy baked potatoes are versatile and can be paired with a variety of dishes:
– **Grilled meats**: Serve with steak, grilled chicken, or fish for a complete meal.
– **Side salads**: A fresh, green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a nice contrast to the richness of the potatoes.
– **Roasted vegetables**: Add even more veggies to your meal with a side of roasted carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts.

These potatoes are also great for meal prepping, as they can be easily reheated and enjoyed as a quick, satisfying lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Whether you’re serving them as a hearty side dish or as a main meal, **cheesy baked potatoes with bacon, veggies, and sour cream sauce** will undoubtedly become a family favorite!