Step 1 of 12
Loaded Baked Potatoes
Preheat the oven to 400°F.
Step 2 of 12
Loaded Baked Potatoes
Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Set aside.
Step 3 of 12
Loaded Baked Potatoes
Pierce each potato 2-3 times with a fork and wrap each individually in a sheet of aluminum foil.
Step 4 of 12
Loaded Baked Potatoes
Bake the potatoes directly on middle rack of oven until fork-tender, 60-75 minutes. When done, remove potatoes from the oven and allow them to rest until they're cool enough to handle.
Step 5 of 12
Loaded Baked Potatoes
Remove the potatoes from the aluminum foil. Make a lengthwise slit in the top of each potato, slicing only halfway down. Carefully pinch the potatoes to open slightly. Scoop out about half of the potato flesh from each potato and place in a large mixing bowl.
Step 6 of 12
Loaded Baked Potatoes
Finely mince the scallions. Add half of the scallions to the mixing bowl.
Step 7 of 12
Loaded Baked Potatoes
Add the butter, sour cream, half of the bacon, half of the shredded cheese, and salt and black pepper to the bowl. Smash the mixture with a large fork into a chunky mash.
Step 8 of 12
Loaded Baked Potatoes
Place the hollowed potatoes on a baking sheet. Spoon an equal amount of the potato mash inside of each potato. Sprinkle the potatoes with the remaining shredded cheese.
Step 9 of 12
Loaded Baked Potatoes
Bake the potatoes on middle rack of oven until the cheese is melted and the potatoes are heated through, 8-10 minutes.
Step 10 of 12
Loaded Baked Potatoes
Check to see that potatoes are done. Remove from oven or add time as needed.
Step 11 of 12
Loaded Baked Potatoes
Sprinkle the remaining minced scallions and crumbled bacon over the tops of the potatoes.
Step 12 of 12
Loaded Baked Potatoes
Top each potato with a generous spoonful of sour cream, if desired. Serve immediately.