Cooking Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, scrub the potatoes under running water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a towel.
Pierce each potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking. Rub each potato with olive oil and sprinkle with salt for added flavor.
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.
Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Carefully slice each potato open lengthwise, and gently fluff the insides with a fork.
Top each potato with shredded cheese, cooked vegetables, and lunch meat. Return them to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Loaded baked potatoes are known for their endless topping possibilities.
Remove the potatoes from the oven and add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top. Garnish with chives, green onions, or hot sauce if desired.
For extra tips, consider baking a few extra potatoes to have on hand for quick meals throughout the week. They can be refrigerated and reheated in the microwave or oven, making it easy to whip up a loaded baked potato in no time.
Additionally, feel free to experiment with different toppings based on your preferences, and don't hesitate to get creative with flavors and textures!