When the sun starts to rise and the world feels brighter, there’s nothing quite like the sizzling sound of breakfast coming together in the kitchen. That’s when I created these Loaded Breakfast Potatoes — a remedy to the mundane and the perfect excuse to linger over your morning coffee just a little longer. Picture crispy russet potatoes filled to the brim with creamy mashed potato goodness, topped with melted cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, and a perfectly baked egg.
These aren’t just any breakfast potatoes; they’re the ideal combination of hearty, gluten-free ingredients that can turn any weekend brunch into a delicious gathering or make meal prep for the week ahead feel indulgent. I’ve enjoyed experimenting with different flavor combinations and toppings, but what truly shines here is the simplicity of the preparation, allowing you to customize these loaded potatoes to your taste. Whether shared with family or savored solo, these Twice-Baked Breakfast Potatoes are sure to become a favorite in your home. Let’s dive in!
Why love Loaded Breakfast Potatoes?
Hearty, Comforting Flavor: These Loaded Breakfast Potatoes are packed with delicious ingredients that deliver a unforgettable taste that’ll make you look forward to breakfast.
Simple Preparation: With an easy, step-by-step process, you won’t need to be a culinary expert to whip up this satisfying meal.
Customize to Your Liking: Add your favorite toppings — from sautéed veggies to different cheeses — and truly make this dish your own!
Perfect for Meal Prep: Preparing a batch at the start of the week means you can enjoy a hearty breakfast ready to go, saving you time and effort on busy mornings.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a simple family meal, these potatoes are sure to impress everyone at the table!
Loaded Breakfast Potatoes Ingredients
• • Dive into deliciousness with these Loaded Breakfast Potatoes!
For the Potatoes
- Large Russet Potatoes – They bake fluffy and hold the stuffing beautifully. Opt for larger ones to maximize your filling!
- Avocado Oil – Helps achieve that golden, crispy skin; olive oil is a great substitute if needed.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavor both inside the filling and on the skin.
For the Filling
- Unsalted Butter – Adds rich creaminess to the mashed potatoes. Use salted butter if it’s all you have on hand.
- Hot Milk – Ensures a smooth texture for the mashed potatoes; a dairy-free option like almond milk works well too!
- Smoky Beef Bacon – Infuses a savory depth; feel free to switch it with turkey bacon or sausage for variety.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melts perfectly into the filling for indulgent richness; consider using gouda or pepper jack for a twist.
- Large Eggs – Packed with protein and a delicious topping that makes these potatoes even heartier; farm-fresh eggs are best!
Optional Garnish
- Chopped Green Onions or Chives – For a fresh, flavorful finish; they add a lovely crunch and enhance presentation.
- Hot Sauce or Red Pepper Flakes – A little kick to complement the creamy filling; adjust to your spice preference!
These Loaded Breakfast Potatoes are not only a delightful breakfast but also a fantastic meal-prep friendly option that everyone will love!
How to Make Loaded Breakfast Potatoes
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Prep Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Gently wash the russet potatoes, poke several holes with a fork, and rub them with avocado oil, salt, and black pepper for an extra crispy finish.
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Bake Potatoes: Place the seasoned potatoes directly on the oven rack and roast for 50–60 minutes. They should be fork-tender. Once done, let them cool for about 10 minutes to make handling easier.
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Scoop and Mash: Carefully cut each potato in half lengthwise, scoop out the fluffy insides, and mash them together with hot milk, unsalted butter, a pinch of salt, and a sprinkle of pepper until it’s delightfully smooth.
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Fill Potatoes: Return the creamy mashed potatoes into the skins. Mix in crispy bacon and shredded cheddar cheese, then carefully crack an egg on top of each filled potato. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
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Final Bake: Lower your oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake the stuffed potatoes for another 15–20 minutes, until the egg whites are set but the yolks remain runny. For firmer yolks, bake a bit longer.
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Serve: Allow the potatoes to cool slightly before serving or store leftovers in an airtight container for quick meals later on.
Optional: For a vibrant touch, sprinkle with chopped green onions or chives before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Loaded Breakfast Potatoes
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Poke Holes: Be sure to poke holes in the potatoes before baking; this allows steam to escape and prevents bursting!
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Egg Placement: Create a well in the mashed potato filling to hold the egg securely during baking; this will keep it from spilling over.
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Check Doneness: Use a fork to test if the potatoes are fork-tender before scooping; undercooked potatoes will be tough to fill.
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Oven Temperature: Maintain your oven temperature when transitioning from baking the potatoes to final baking; accuracy ensures perfectly cooked eggs.
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Customize Fillings: Feel free to play around with various fillings or toppings to make these Loaded Breakfast Potatoes uniquely yours; they are highly customizable!
What to Serve with Loaded Breakfast Potatoes?
Transform your morning with delicious sides that elevate your breakfast experience.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits brings refreshing sweetness, balancing the hearty, savory potatoes.
- Crispy Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to the warm potatoes.
- Savory Sausages: Juicy breakfast sausages punch up the protein while adding even more comforting flavors to your meal.
- Creamy Avocado Toast: The smooth texture and mild taste of avocado toast complements the loaded potatoes perfectly. Enjoy the fusion of creaminess!
- Raspberry Jam: A subtle sweet spread adds a delightful layer when slathered on the crispy potato skin, creating a flavor extravaganza.
- Chai Tea or Coffee: A warm, spiced chai or your favorite brew rounds out the meal, providing a cozy beverage to sip while you savor each bite.
- Hot Sauce: A drizzle of your favorite hot sauce adds a kick that enhances the flavors of the potatoes, making each bite more exciting!
- Chocolate Croissants: For those with a sweet tooth, pairing with fluffy chocolate croissants delivers a decadent treat, turning breakfast into a special occasion.
Make Ahead Options
These Loaded Breakfast Potatoes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy mornings! You can prepare the loaded potato filling — the creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and cheese — up to 3 days in advance by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply bake the potatoes (steps 1 and 2) and let them cool, then scoop and mash as instructed. When it’s time to enjoy your breakfast, fill the potato skins and crack the eggs on top, then bake as directed. This method keeps the potatoes just as delicious, allowing you to indulge in hearty goodness with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Loaded Breakfast Potatoes
Fridge: Keep leftover Loaded Breakfast Potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps retain their deliciousness for your next meal.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap each potato tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This ensures the crispy texture is preserved while heating them through.
Serving Note: Always enjoy these Loaded Breakfast Potatoes warm, and feel free to top with fresh garnishes to elevate their appeal!
Loaded Breakfast Potatoes Variations & Substitutions
Get ready to tailor these potatoes to your taste—because breakfast should never be one-size-fits-all!
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Dairy-Free: Swap the milk for almond or oat milk, and use vegan butter or olive oil for a delightful dairy-free version.
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Vegetarian Delight: Omit the bacon and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or jackfruit for a satisfying meatless option. You’ll still enjoy great texture and flavor!
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Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different cheeses like feta, gouda, or pepper jack to add unique flavor profiles that delight the palate. Each cheese will bring its special melting characteristics!
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a zesty burst of heat. Just the right amount of spice can elevate your breakfast experience!
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or rosemary into the mashed filling for an aromatic twist that’s both refreshing and flavorful.
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Veggie Boost: Incorporate sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or kale into the filling for a nutritious upgrade. These colorful veggies not only add nutrients but also enhance the meal’s visual appeal.
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Smoky Twist: Use smoked salmon or liquid smoke in place of bacon for a sophisticated, smoky flavor that transforms your breakfast game.
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Breakfast Burrito Style: Wrap the filled potatoes in a tortilla and grill for a crunchy breakfast burrito alternative. A fun way to reinvent your breakfast potatoes while keeping all the delicious fillings!
Loaded Breakfast Potatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best Loaded Breakfast Potatoes, look for large russet potatoes that are firm and free of dark spots or blemishes. The skin should be smooth and not wrinkled. Larger potatoes will be easier to scoop and stuff, ensuring you have plenty of room for your flavorful filling.
What’s the best way to store leftover Loaded Breakfast Potatoes?
To keep your leftovers fresh, store the Loaded Breakfast Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows you to enjoy them again without losing any of their delicious flavor or texture. Just be sure to let them cool down to room temperature before sealing!
Can I freeze Loaded Breakfast Potatoes for later?
Yes, you can freeze these hearty delights! Wrap each potato individually in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect them from freezer burn. They will last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes for the best texture.
What if I don’t have bacon on hand?
Very easy! If you don’t have smoky beef bacon, feel free to substitute it with turkey bacon or even some sautéed sausage. You can also add a variety of vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for a healthier twist without losing that delicious flavor.
How can I customize the filling for dietary restrictions?
The more the merrier! If you’re looking to make these Loaded Breakfast Potatoes suitable for a dairy-free diet, simply swap the milk for almond milk and use dairy-free cheese alternatives. You can also omit the egg and include more vegetables or lentils for a plant-based option.
What should I do if my potatoes are hard to scoop out?
No worries! If you find that your potatoes are tough to scoop, it might be that they were undercooked. Make sure to bake them long enough until they are fork-tender. If they’re cooked properly and still tricky to scoop, a melon baller or small spoon can help get the job done more easily!
Loaded Breakfast Potatoes: Hearty and Gluten-Free Goodness
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Gently wash the russet potatoes, poke several holes with a fork, and rub them with avocado oil, salt, and black pepper.
- Place the seasoned potatoes directly on the oven rack and roast for 50–60 minutes, until fork-tender. Let cool for about 10 minutes.
- Cut each potato in half lengthwise, scoop out the insides, and mash with hot milk, butter, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Return the mashed potatoes into the skins, mix in bacon and cheddar cheese, and crack an egg on top. Season with salt and pepper.
- Lower the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for another 15-20 minutes, until egg whites are set but yolks remain runny.
- Allow the potatoes to cool slightly before serving or store leftovers in an airtight container.
