When the weekend rolls around, and the desire for a hearty breakfast hits, there’s nothing quite like sinking your fork into a delicious Twice-Baked Breakfast Potato. Imagine crispy, golden-brown shells cradling a creamy, indulgent filling of mashed potatoes swirled with rich butter and gooey cheddar, topped off with smoky beef bacon and a perfectly baked egg. The moment you take that first bite, the satisfying contrast of textures and flavors makes you forget all about the fast-food options you’ve been avoiding.
I first created this comforting dish on a chilly morning, longing for something warm and filling, yet easy enough to whip up without stress. Not only are these potatoes naturally gluten-free, but they also lend themselves beautifully to meal prep—easily stored for busy mornings or enjoyed fresh out of the oven for a leisurely brunch with loved ones. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing friends, these Twice-Baked Breakfast Potatoes are a delightful way to start your day on a high note!
Why are Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes a must-try?
Ultimate Comfort Food: The fusion of crispy potato skins filled with creamy goodness makes every bite a dream.
Customizable Goodness: Add your favorite toppings—think sautéed veggies or spice it up with hot sauce!
Meal Prep Winner: These baked beauties save time—make them ahead for effortless meals throughout the week.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for brunch gatherings, everyone will love the hearty flavors and textures.
Gluten-Free Delight: Naturally fitting for gluten-free diets, you can savor every delicious bite without worry!
Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes Ingredients
For the Potatoes
- Large Russet Potatoes – The perfect base for a fluffy interior and crispy skin; opt for large to make room for fillings.
- Avocado Oil – This oil enhances the crispiness and flavor; olive oil can be a great substitute.
- Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasonings that elevate the dish; adjust to taste and try substituting with other spices if desired.
For the Mashed Filling
- Unsalted Butter – Adds a rich creaminess to the mash; feel free to swap with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
- Hot Milk – Binds the potatoes together and creates a smooth filling; dairy-free milk works just as well!
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Gives a melty flavor; consider using gouda or pepper jack for a different twist.
For the Toppings
- Beef Bacon – Smoky and savory, it elevates the dish; turkey bacon or breakfast sausage can serve as tasty alternatives.
- Large Eggs – The star ingredient that adds protein and a lovely baked element on top; vital for a hearty breakfast experience.
Feel free to explore variations such as adding sautéed veggies or spices to truly make these Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes your own!
How to Make Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and give those large russet potatoes a good wash to remove any dirt and debris. This ensures a clean canvas for your delicious creation!
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Poke holes in each potato with a fork, then coat them generously with avocado oil, and sprinkle with salt and black pepper. This step is crucial to enhance flavor and achieve that crispy skin!
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Bake the potatoes directly on the oven rack for 50–60 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. You want them to be golden-brown on the outside, indicating they’re ready for the next step!
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Cool the baked potatoes for about 10 minutes to avoid burns; then slice them in half lengthwise and scoop out most of the insides. Leave a thin layer for structure—you want each bite to maintain that potato goodness!
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Mash the scooped-out potato with hot milk and unsalted butter until smooth. Season generously with salt and pepper—this creamy filling is going to be the heart of your dish!
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Spoon the creamy mashed mixture back into the potato shells, creating a small well in the center to hold your toppings. These little boats are about to get stuffed with deliciousness!
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Fill the well with crispy beef bacon, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, and crack a large egg into each potato half. These layers add flavor and make for an irresistible presentation!
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Lower the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the egg whites are set but the yolks remain gloriously runny—a dreamy breakfast texture!
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Serve warm after letting them cool for a few minutes. Enjoy the beauty of your hard work—these baked loaded breakfast potatoes are meant to be savored!
Optional: Add fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a vibrant finishing touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes are perfect for meal prep, making your busy mornings a breeze! You can prepare the potatoes up to 24 hours in advance by baking them, scooping out the insides, and storing the shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The mashed filling can also be made ahead of time—just mix the scooped potato with butter and milk, then refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply fill the potato shells with the prepared mash, toppings, and cracked eggs, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until the eggs are cooked to your liking. This way, you’ll enjoy a comforting breakfast with minimal morning effort!
Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes Variations
Feel free to let your imagination run wild and customize these delicious potatoes to suit your taste!
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Vegetarian Delight: Swap out the beef bacon for sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a hearty, meat-free option.
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Cheese Swap: Use feta or goat cheese instead of cheddar for a tangy twist that complements the other flavors perfectly.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or sprinkle with cayenne pepper before baking for a fiery bite that wakes up your taste buds!
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Dairy-Free Option: Substitute unsalted butter and cheese with plant-based equivalents for a fully dairy-free experience, keeping the flavors delightful.
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Herbed Goodness: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the mashed filling for an aromatic boost that elevates every forkful.
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Breakfast Sausage: Feel free to use crumbled breakfast sausage instead of beef bacon to bring a different savory flavor profile to your dish.
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Southwestern Flair: Top with black beans, corn, and avocado for a fresh, southwestern-inspired twist—perfect for those who love vibrant flavors.
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Sweet Potato Variation: Use sweet potatoes instead of russets for a hints of sweetness that perfectly balances the savory elements!
What to Serve with Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes?
Start your brunch spread right with delightful accompaniments that elevate your meal experience.
- Fresh Green Salad: A light and crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette counterbalances the richness of the potatoes, adding a refreshing crunch.
- Roasted Asparagus: Tender, roasted asparagus spears drizzled with olive oil complement the hearty potatoes while providing a vibrant pop of color and nutrition.
- Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado slices bring a buttery element that pairs beautifully with the crispy potato skins and adds a touch of healthy fats.
- Fruit Medley: Sweet and juicy fruits like berries or melon contrast the savory flavors, making each bite more exciting and vibrant.
- Herbed Yogurt Dip: A dollop of herbed yogurt offers a tangy contrast and is a delightful way to add creaminess while keeping flavors in harmony.
- Sparkling Citrus Drink: Refreshing sparkling water with a splash of citrus juice invigorates the meal, providing a bubbly lift to your brunch table.
Whether you choose to keep it simple or go all out, these pairings are sure to make your Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes shine at any gathering!
Expert Tips for Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes
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Poking Holes: Preventing Bursting: Make sure to poke holes in your potatoes; this allows steam to escape, preventing them from bursting in the oven.
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Egg Perfection: Adjust for Firmness: If you prefer firmer yolks, cook the egg-filled potatoes a bit longer—just don’t forget to keep an eye on them!
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Fluffy Mash: Hand Mixer Advantage: For an extra creamy filling, use a hand mixer to mash your potatoes. It makes all the difference in texture!
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Storage Secrets: Keep Fresh: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain that crispy skin.
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Flavor Enhancements: Experiment Freely: Don’t hesitate to play around with the ingredient substitutions in your Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes—different cheeses and toppings can create delightful new flavors!
How to Store and Freeze Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftover baked loaded breakfast potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This way, you’ll keep them as fresh and flavorful as when you first made them!
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual potato halves tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will last for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your baked loaded breakfast potatoes again, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. This will help restore their crispy skin and creamy filling.
Meal Prep: These potatoes make an excellent meal-prep option! You can prepare them ahead of time, and following the storage tips will keep your busy mornings stress-free.
Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for large russet potatoes with smooth, unblemished skins. Avoid those with dark spots, bruises, or any signs of sprouting, as they could affect the flavor and texture.
How should I store leftovers from the baked loaded breakfast potatoes?
To store your leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will remain fresh for up to 3 days. If you’d like to enjoy them later, follow the next question for freezer instructions!
Can I freeze baked loaded breakfast potatoes?
Yes! Once cooled, wrap each potato half tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring no air gets in. Then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes to restore their crispiness.
What if my potatoes burst while baking?
If your potatoes burst, don’t fret! It usually happens when steam builds up inside, so always remember to poke holes in them before baking. If they do happen to split, carefully scoop out the filling and use it to make a delicious mashed potato topping instead!
Are these baked loaded breakfast potatoes safe for people with dietary restrictions?
Very! This dish is naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for those avoiding gluten. However, be mindful of any allergies to dairy or eggs. For a dairy-free version, substitute unsalted butter and cheese with vegan alternatives. Always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs!
Can I customize the toppings based on my preferences?
The more the merrier! Feel free to get creative with your toppings—add sautéed vegetables, different types of cheese, or spices like cayenne for an extra kick. This recipe is wonderfully versatile, allowing you to tailor each potato to suit your tastes!
Savory Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes for a Hearty Start
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and wash the potatoes to remove dirt.
- Poke holes in each potato with a fork, coat with avocado oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Bake potatoes on the oven rack for 50-60 minutes until tender.
- Cool baked potatoes for 10 minutes, slice in half, and scoop out insides.
- Mash the scooped potato with hot milk and unsalted butter until smooth, season with salt and pepper.
- Spoon mixture back into shells, create a well for toppings.
- Fill well with crispy bacon, top with cheddar cheese, and add an egg to each half.
- Lower oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes.
- Serve warm after cooling slightly and enjoy.