As an affiliate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. We get commissions for purchases made through links on this website from Amazon and other third parties.
If you're looking to elevate your side dishes, loaded BBQ baked potatoes are an excellent choice. They're versatile, hearty, and can complement any main course. From classic pulled pork to zesty shrimp and avocado, each recipe offers a unique flavor profile. You'll find options for meat lovers and vegetarians alike. Curious about how to whip up these delicious variations? Let's explore the six recipes that'll transform your meals.
Key Takeaways
- Classic BBQ pulled pork and beef brisket loaded potatoes offer rich, smoky flavors that complement any meal as hearty side dishes.
- Vegetarian options like grilled veggie BBQ loaded potatoes provide a healthy alternative without sacrificing flavor, perfect for lighter side dishes.
- Unique variations such as BBQ shrimp and avocado loaded potatoes add a refreshing twist to traditional recipes, ideal for summer gatherings.
- Customize your loaded potatoes by adding toppings like crispy bacon, ranch dressing, or jalapeños to enhance taste and texture.
- Follow essential cooking techniques like preheating, wrapping in foil, and fluffing potato insides for optimal results and enjoyable sides.
Classic BBQ Pulled Pork Loaded Potato

To make this dish, you can either use store-bought pulled pork or prepare your own. The key is to guarantee the pork is incredibly tender and infused with smoky BBQ flavors. Topped with cheese, sour cream, green onions, and a sprinkle of paprika, these loaded potatoes aren't only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a perfect centerpiece for your table.
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 cups cooked pulled pork (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Cooking Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Start by washing the russet potatoes thoroughly and then prick them several times with a fork. Rub the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
Place them directly on the oven rack and bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the inside is tender.
While the potatoes are baking, prepare the pulled pork if you're making it from scratch, or heat it if using pre-cooked pork.
Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Slice each potato open and fluff the insides with a fork. Layer on the pulled pork, followed by the shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions.
Finish with a drizzle of BBQ sauce and a sprinkle of paprika for an extra kick.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding pickled jalapeños or diced tomatoes as toppings.
If you want to make this dish even more filling, you can incorporate black beans or corn into the pulled pork mixture.
Additionally, if you prefer a crispy topping, broil the loaded potatoes for a few minutes after assembling them to melt the cheese and give it a delicious golden finish.
Enjoy your BBQ Pulled Pork Loaded Potatoes!
Smoky Chipotle Chicken BBQ Baked Potato

Indulging in a Smoky Chipotle Chicken BBQ Baked Potato is the perfect way to elevate a simple meal into a flavorful experience. This dish combines tender, shredded chipotle chicken with the creaminess of a perfectly baked potato, topped with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky finish.
It's an ideal option for a hearty lunch or a cozy dinner, and it's great for gatherings where you want to impress your guests with minimal fuss.
To make this dish even better, you can customize the toppings to suit your taste. Whether you prefer a sprinkle of cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or a handful of fresh cilantro, the options are endless. This recipe is also an excellent use of leftover roasted chicken or rotisserie chicken, saving you time while delivering a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- 2 tablespoons chipotle in adobo sauce (minced)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Cooking Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Start by washing and scrubbing the russet potatoes thoroughly, then poke several holes in each potato with a fork. Rub the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until they're tender when pierced with a fork. While the potatoes are baking, combine the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce and minced chipotle in a bowl, mixing well to coat the chicken evenly.
Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Carefully slice each potato open lengthwise and fluff the insides with a fork. Spoon the smoky chipotle chicken mixture generously on top of each potato, then sprinkle with shredded cheese.
Return the loaded potatoes to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of green onions.
Extra Tips:
For added texture and flavor, consider adding crispy bacon bits or jalapeños as toppings. If you want to save time, using a microwave to cook the potatoes can be a quick alternative—just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Remember that you can always adjust the level of heat from the chipotle based on your preference, making this dish suitable for anyone who enjoys a little kick in their meal!
Beef Brisket and Cheddar BBQ Baked Potato

BBQ Baked Potatoes are a hearty and satisfying dish perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in. When you combine the rich, smoky flavors of beef brisket with creamy cheddar cheese and tangy barbecue sauce, you create a meal that's sure to impress. This delightful combo not only adds a punch of flavor but also makes for a filling and comforting dish that can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences.
To achieve the perfect Beef Brisket and Cheddar BBQ Baked Potato, start by selecting large russet potatoes. These potatoes are ideal for baking due to their fluffy interior and sturdy skin. The slow-cooked beef brisket can be made ahead of time and stored, making this dish a great option for meal prepping or entertaining guests. Don't forget to top your baked potatoes with some fresh garnishes to elevate the flavor profile!
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 cups cooked beef brisket, shredded
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the russet potatoes thoroughly and poke several holes in each potato with a fork to allow steam to escape while baking. Rub the potatoes with a bit of olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Place them directly on the oven rack and bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- While the potatoes are baking, prepare the beef brisket. If you haven't cooked it yet, season the brisket with your favorite spices, and slow-cook it until tender. Once the brisket is ready, shred it and mix it with barbecue sauce in a bowl.
When the potatoes are done, cut a slit down the center of each potato and fluff the insides with a fork. Fill each potato with the shredded brisket mixture, top with shredded cheddar cheese, and return them to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of green onions on top.
Extra Tips:
For an added depth of flavor, consider smoking the brisket before shredding it. This will enhance the overall barbecue experience. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick, or add toppings like crispy bacon bits or jalapeños for an extra layer of flavor.
Enjoy your BBQ Baked Potatoes as a main dish or a side, and don't hesitate to customize them to fit your unique taste!
Grilled Veggie BBQ Loaded Potato

Grilled Veggie BBQ Loaded Potatoes are a delightful twist on the traditional baked potato, offering a healthy and flavorful way to enjoy the classic dish. The combination of roasted vegetables and tangy BBQ sauce creates a mouthwatering filling that complements the fluffy interior of the potato perfectly.
This recipe isn't only easy to make but also allows for customization based on your favorite veggies and BBQ sauce preferences.
To get started, you'll need some fresh ingredients and a few simple tools. The grilling process enhances the flavors of the vegetables while the potatoes cook to perfection, making this dish a great option for a summer cookout or a cozy dinner at home. Your friends and family will love this hearty and satisfying meal that's loaded with deliciousness.
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 1 cup bell peppers (assorted colors), diced
- 1 cup zucchini, diced
- 1 cup red onion, diced
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your grill to medium heat. While the grill is heating up, wash and scrub the russet potatoes. Poke a few holes in each potato with a fork to allow steam to escape during cooking. Wrap the potatoes in aluminum foil and place them on the grill. Cook for about 40-50 minutes, turning occasionally, until they're tender when pierced with a fork.
- Meanwhile, prepare the grilled veggies. In a large bowl, combine the diced bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and corn. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat the vegetables evenly.
Place them in a grilling basket or wrap them in foil, then grill for about 10-15 minutes until they're tender and slightly charred. Once the potatoes are cooked, remove them from the grill and carefully unwrap them. Cut a slit down the center of each potato and gently fluff the insides with a fork.
Fill each potato with the grilled veggies, drizzle with BBQ sauce, and top with shredded cheese. Return the loaded potatoes to the grill for a few minutes to melt the cheese.
Extra Tips:
For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding some cooked bacon bits or grilled chicken to the mix. You can also experiment with different types of BBQ sauce, such as spicy or smoky varieties, to suit your taste.
Don't forget to garnish with freshly chopped green onions for added color and flavor before serving. Enjoy your Grilled Veggie BBQ Loaded Potatoes as a satisfying main dish or a hearty side!
Tangy BBQ Bacon Ranch Baked Potato

To start, you'll need some medium-sized russet potatoes, known for their fluffy interior when baked. The savory flavors of crispy bacon and zesty BBQ sauce come together beautifully, and when drizzled with ranch dressing, each bite becomes a flavor explosion.
This baked potato dish is sure to impress your family and friends, making it a must-try recipe for potato lovers everywhere.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- 8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash and scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly, then dry them with a paper towel. Use a fork to poke several holes in each potato, which will help steam escape while they bake.
- Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until they're tender when pierced with a fork. While the potatoes are baking, cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it into bite-sized pieces.
- Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Carefully slice each potato down the center, gently pushing the ends to open it up.
Season the insides with salt and pepper, then layer on the shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, and a generous drizzle of BBQ sauce. Finish with a drizzle of ranch dressing and a sprinkle of chopped green onions.
Extra Tips:
For an even more flavorful baked potato, consider wrapping the potatoes in aluminum foil before baking, which will result in a softer skin.
Additionally, feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties or add toppings like jalapeños, sour cream, or avocado to give your BBQ Bacon Ranch Baked Potatoes a personal twist. Enjoy!
BBQ Shrimp and Avocado Loaded Potato

BBQ Shrimp and Avocado Loaded Potato is a delightful twist on the classic loaded potato, perfect for summer cookouts or a hearty weeknight dinner. The combination of juicy shrimp marinated in BBQ sauce, creamy avocado, and the fluffy texture of a baked potato creates a mouthwatering dish that's both satisfying and invigorating.
This recipe isn't only simple to make but also packs a punch of flavor that will impress your family and friends.
To prepare this dish, start by baking your potatoes until they're tender. While the potatoes are baking, you can prepare the BBQ shrimp and avocado topping. The shrimp will be marinated in a flavorful BBQ sauce and sautéed until perfectly cooked. Topped with fresh avocado, this loaded potato will become a new favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your preference)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and scrub the russet potatoes, then pierce them with a fork several times. Rub them with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Bake the potatoes on a baking sheet for about 45-60 minutes, or until they're tender when pierced with a knife.
- While the potatoes are baking, heat a skillet over medium heat. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with BBQ sauce, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp to the heated skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.
- When the potatoes are finished baking, cut them open lengthwise and fluff the insides with a fork. Top each potato with the BBQ shrimp, diced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, and chopped green onions.
Extra Tips:
For an extra kick, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder to the BBQ shrimp before cooking.
If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can substitute the shrimp with grilled veggies or black beans.
These loaded potatoes are perfect for meal prep as well; simply store the toppings separately and assemble them just before serving to keep everything fresh.
Enjoy this delicious dish at your next gathering or as a satisfying meal any day of the week!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Sweet Potatoes Instead of Regular Potatoes?
Yes, you can definitely use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes! They'll offer a unique flavor and sweetness. Just adjust your cooking time, as sweet potatoes tend to cook faster than regular ones. Enjoy experimenting!
How Long Do I Bake the Potatoes For?
Like a warm hug from the oven, you'll want to bake your potatoes for about 45 to 60 minutes at 425°F. Just pierce them with a fork to check for that tender perfection!
What Toppings Are Best for Vegetarian Loaded Potatoes?
For vegetarian loaded potatoes, you'll love toppings like roasted vegetables, black beans, corn, avocado, and melted cheese. Don't forget to add sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess and fresh herbs for extra flavor!
Can Leftovers Be Reheated Without Losing Flavor?
You know what they say, "A stitch in time saves nine." Leftovers can definitely be reheated without losing flavor. Just use low heat and cover them to keep moisture in, ensuring deliciousness remains intact.
What Type of BBQ Sauce Works Best for These Recipes?
When choosing BBQ sauce, you'll want something that complements the dish. A tangy, sweet sauce often works best, enhancing flavors without overpowering. Look for options with a balance of spice and sweetness to elevate your meal.